Is it strep throat or just a sore throat? How to tell the difference
- Date:
- 24/01/2025
- Author:
- Maria Stringer

We’ve all been there – waking up with that tell-tale scratchy throat, swallowing feels like a chore, and you’re left wondering: Is it just a minor irritation or something more serious?
With so many bugs going around, it’s easy to dismiss a sore throat as part of the usual seasonal woes. But when it comes to strep throat, identifying it early can make all the difference in preventing complications and getting the right treatment.
Between 5 and 15% of sore throats can be attributed to Strep A, but how do you know if you’re dealing with strep throat or just a common sore throat?
The common sore throat: when irritation is just that
A sore throat can be triggered by a variety of factors—seasonal allergies, dry air, post-nasal drip, or even shouting a little too much at last night’s concert.
In most cases, sore throats are caused by viral infections, such as the common cold or flu. These typically come with other familiar symptoms, including:
- A runny or stuffy nose
- Sneezing and coughing
- Mild fever or body aches
- Hoarseness and voice changes
The good news? Viral sore throats usually improve on their own with rest, hydration, and over-the-counter remedies. No antibiotics are needed—just a little TLC and perhaps a boost of vitamin D to help support your immune system during recovery.
But what if your sore throat isn’t going away, or it feels worse than usual? That’s when it’s time to consider whether strep throat might be the culprit.
Strep throat: more than just a sore throat

Unlike viral sore throats, strep throat is caused by bacteria—specifically, Group A Streptococcus. It’s highly contagious and spreads easily through coughing, sneezing, and even sharing utensils.
While strep throat can sometimes masquerade as a regular sore throat, it often comes with more severe symptoms, such as:
- A sudden and severe sore throat with no accompanying cough
- Pain when swallowing, making it difficult to eat or drink
- Red and swollen tonsils, sometimes with white patches or pus
- Fever of 38.3°C (101°F) or higher
- Swollen lymph nodes in the neck
In children, strep throat can also cause headaches, stomach pain, or even a red rash known as scarlet fever. Left untreated, strep throat can lead to complications such as rheumatic fever, which can affect the heart and joints. That’s why it’s important to know when to test.
The importance of testing for strep A
Given how similar the symptoms of viral and bacterial sore throats can be, the only way to know for sure is through a Strep A test. These tests provide safe, reliable, accurate results, helping you determine whether antibiotics are necessary or if your sore throat can simply run its course.
A Strep A rapid test makes it easier than ever to check for strep throat from the comfort of your home. With a simple throat swab, you’ll get results in minutes—saving you the time if you're wait on a doctor’s visit.
If your test comes back positive, you can take the next steps by consulting your healthcare provider for treatment. If negative, you’ll have peace of mind knowing your sore throat is likely viral.
How to prevent strep throat

Whether you’re prone to sore throats or simply want to avoid strep, prevention is key. Strep throat is caused by the bacterium spreading through respiratory droplets from coughing or sneezing, or by sharing utensils, making hygiene crucial in its prevention.
Here are a few simple tips to stay healthy:
- Wash your hands regularly, especially before eating and after being in public spaces
- Avoid close contact with anyone who has a confirmed strep infection
- Don’t share utensils, cups, or toothbrushes
- Boost your immune system with a healthy diet, proper hydration, and supplements like vitamins D and C
When to take action
Knowing the difference between a regular sore throat and strep throat can help you take the right steps to recover quickly and avoid complications.
If your sore throat persists for more than a few days, is accompanied by a high fever, or includes symptoms such as white spots on your tonsils or swollen lymph nodes, it's important to seek medical attention.
Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment not only help you feel better faster but also prevent the spread of infection to others. Whether it’s ensuring you’re getting enough rest, staying hydrated, or taking prescribed antibiotics, taking care of your throat health can have a big impact on your overall well-being.
While sore throats are often harmless, it’s always worth paying attention to your body’s signals. Prevention, good hygiene, and being informed about symptoms are key to keeping you and your loved ones healthy.
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