Do You Have Strep Throat? Symptom Checker

Do You Have Strep Throat? Self-Check Quiz

Strep throat can be tricky to recognize, as its early symptoms can feel like a common sore throat or cold. If your throat has been sore or you’ve had other related symptoms, it might be time to take a closer look.

This short quiz helps you reflect on possible signs of strep throat. It’s not a diagnosis, but it can help you decide whether to see a doctor.

Ask yourself:

• Is my throat sore or painful, especially when swallowing?
• Do I have swollen or tender lymph nodes in my neck?
• Have I experienced fever recently?
• Are my tonsils red or covered with white patches?
• Have I had headaches, stomach pain, or nausea along with a sore throat?

If you answered “yes” to more than one, you may want to explore further.

Note: This quiz is a helpful starting point, but it’s not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis.

Want a clearer picture of your symptoms? Take the full Symptom Checker now to get personalized insights in just a few minutes.

What Is Strep Throat?

Strep throat is an infection caused by bacteria called Streptococcus pyogenes. It mainly affects the throat and tonsils, causing pain and discomfort when swallowing. Because its early symptoms can resemble other conditions, strep throat can sometimes be hard to identify without proper testing. In the United States, it accounts for an estimated 5.2 million outpatient visits each year.

Common Signs and Symptoms of Strep Throat

 Strep throat can range from mild to more noticeable symptoms. Watch for signs such as:

• Sore throat that comes on quickly
• Pain when swallowing
• Red and swollen tonsils, sometimes with white patches or streaks of pus
• Tiny red spots on the roof of the mouth
• Fever
• Headache or body aches
• Swollen lymph nodes in the neck

What Causes Strep Throat?

Strep throat is caused by a bacterial infection with Streptococcus pyogenes (group A Streptococcus). The bacteria can spread easily from person to person, usually through:

• Respiratory droplets: When an infected person coughs or sneezes
• Close contact: Sharing utensils, cups, or touching contaminated surfaces
• Weakened immune system: People with weaker immunity may be more susceptible

Strep throat can appear suddenly and may be more common in children and teenagers, though adults can get it too. 

How to Prevent Strep Throat

You can take simple steps to lower your risk of getting strep throat:

• Wash your hands regularly, especially before eating or touching your face.
• Avoid sharing utensils, cups, or personal items with someone who is sick.
• Cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing.
• Disinfect commonly touched surfaces, like doorknobs and phones.
• Stay home if you are sick to prevent spreading the infection to others.

These small habits can help protect you and those around you from infection.

How Is Strep Throat Diagnosed?

There isn’t a single way to confirm strep throat without proper testing. Doctors usually assess your symptoms and may run a few quick checks to be sure.

Diagnosis may include:

• A review of your symptoms and a physical exam, checking the throat, tonsils, and lymph nodes
• A rapid strep test, which can give results in minutes
• A throat culture, where a swab sample is sent to a lab for more accurate results if needed

Possible Complications of Untreated Strep Throat

If strep throat isn’t treated properly, it can lead to serious health issues:

• Rheumatic fever: A rare but serious condition that can damage the heart.
• Kidney inflammation (post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis): Can affect kidney function.
• Sinus or ear infections: The bacteria may spread, causing additional infections.
• Scarlet fever: A bacterial infection with a red rash that sometimes follows strep.

How To Treat Strep Throat

Strep throat is caused by bacteria, so treatment focuses on eliminating the infection and relieving symptoms. 

Treatment usually includes:

• Antibiotics: Doctors often prescribe antibiotics, like penicillin or amoxicillin, to kill the bacteria and shorten the illness.
• Rest and hydration: Proper rest combined with good hydration helps your body heal from the illness.
• Symptom relief: Over-the-counter pain relievers, throat lozenges, or warm saltwater gargles can ease throat pain and reduce fever.

Most people start feeling better within a few days of starting antibiotics.

When to See a Doctor

If you’ve been feeling off and your symptoms keep returning, it’s a good idea to seek medical advice. Contact a doctor if:

• Your symptoms have persisted for several weeks
• Everyday activities are becoming difficult due to fatigue, pain, or rashes
• You notice new or worsening flare-ups

If you’re not certain about your symptoms, the Strep Throat Symptom Checker can give you insight and help you decide whether to consult a doctor.

Note: This quiz is meant as a guide and is not a medical diagnosis. Always follow up with a doctor for proper evaluation.