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Jan 27 2025

Sore Throat vs. Strep Throat: Know the Difference

January 27, 2025  /   Family Medicine  /   4-minute read

That scratchy throat. You know the feeling – it makes swallowing a chore and can really disrupt your day. Sore throats are a common wintertime complaint, but it’s important to know when that scratchy throat might be something more serious, like strep throat. Let’s learn the difference.

What causes a sore throat?


Sore throats can be caused by various factors, including:

  • Viruses: The most common cause, often associated with the common cold or flu.  
  • Allergies: Seasonal allergies can irritate the throat.  
  • Dry air: Dry air, especially during winter, can dry out the throat and cause irritation.  
  • Irritants: Smoke, pollution, and even excessive talking can irritate the throat.  

Finding relief


Most sore throats can be treated with these good old-fashioned home remedies:

  • Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids, such as water, warm tea, or broth.
  • Gargle with warm salt water: Mix ¼ teaspoon of salt in 8 ounces of warm water and gargle several times a day.  
  • Soothe with honey and lemon: Add honey and lemon to warm water for a soothing and comforting drink.  
  • Suck on lozenges or hard candies: This helps stimulate saliva production and keep the throat moist. 
  • Rest: Get plenty of rest to allow your body to recover.

For many, over-the-counter (OTC) medications can relieve pain or itchiness from a sore throat. 

See the National Institute of Health recommendations for soothing a sore throat.

woman making tea with lemon and hondy

Recognizing strep throat

Strep throat, unlike a sore throat, is a bacterial infection that requires prompt medical attention. It can cause more severe symptoms, such as:  

  • Severe throat pain
  • Red and swollen tonsils
  • White patches or streaks of pus on the tonsils
  • Difficulty swallowing
  • Swollen lymph nodes in the neck
  • Fever (often above 101°F)
  • Headache
  • Stomach pain  

Certain symptoms may indicate that your sore throat is caused by something other than strep. If you have a runny nose, red or watery eyes, cough, or sneezing, you may have a viral infection.

When to see your Welia Health provider

If you suspect strep throat, it’s time to seek out an expert medical opinion, especially if you experience:

  • Severe throat pain
  • High fever
  • Difficulty swallowing
  • Swollen lymph nodes
Doctor examining throat with tongue depressor and flashlight

Strep throat requires antibiotics for treatment and can lead to complications if left untreated.  

Still unsure if it could be strep throat? Welia Health’s Family Medicine providers can accurately diagnose your condition and recommend the best course of treatment. Call Welia Health at 1.800.245.5671 or use MyChart to schedule an appointment.

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