Strep throat is a common but painful bacterial infection that can make swallowing difficult and lead to complications if left untreated. At Art of Medicine Direct, we provide prompt and effective care to help you feel better faster.

What Is Strep Throat?

Strep throat is caused by the Streptococcus bacteria and is most common in children and young adults, though anyone can be affected. Unlike a viral sore throat, strep throat requires antibiotics to clear the infection. Symptoms often include:

• Severe throat pain
• Red and swollen tonsils, sometimes with white patches
• Fever
• Swollen lymph nodes in the neck
• Difficulty swallowing
• Headache or body aches

Because strep throat is contagious, early diagnosis and treatment help prevent its spread and reduce the risk of complications such as rheumatic fever or kidney inflammation.

When to See a Doctor for Strep Throat

Many sore throats are caused by viruses and do not require antibiotics, but strep throat should be treated promptly. You should seek medical care if:

• Your sore throat lasts more than a couple of days and worsens
• You have a fever above 101°F
• Swallowing is very painful or difficult
• You notice white patches or pus on your tonsils
• You experience a rash along with your sore throat

At our practice, we use rapid strep tests and throat cultures to confirm strep throat. The rapid test provides results in minutes, while a throat culture may be used for confirmation in some cases.

Treatment Options for Strep Throat

If you test positive for strep throat, we prescribe antibiotics to clear the infection. Most patients start feeling better within 24 to 48 hours of starting medication. Completing the full course of antibiotics is essential to prevent complications and reduce the risk of spreading the infection.

In addition to antibiotics, supportive care can help ease symptoms:

• Drinking warm teas and broths
• Using throat lozenges or sprays
• Taking over-the-counter pain relievers (as recommended)
• Resting and staying hydrated

Because strep throat spreads through respiratory droplets, practicing good hygiene—such as washing hands frequently and avoiding close contact with others while sick—helps prevent transmission.

Convenient and Affordable Strep Throat Care

We provide strep throat evaluation and treatment as part of our direct primary care services, offering a cost-effective alternative to urgent care visits. Our patients receive attentive care without the delays and high costs associated with traditional insurance-based models.

If you need treatment for a sore throat and want a quick diagnosis with personalized care, we’re here to help. We serve patients in Charlotte and surrounding areas, ensuring they get the medical attention they need without unnecessary hassle.