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Does my sore throat look like strep?

This Premium Q&A, reviewed and published, features a real conversation between an iCliniq user and a physician.

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

I am suffering from sore throat. Three days ago, it initially started with pain and the redness appeared shortly after. I have had strep about three times now. It hurts when I yawn and swallow. I feel a little dry even though I have been gargling with water. I woke up this morning with a thick vertical red line going down my throat. Does it look like strep?

Answered by Dr. Shyam Kalyan N

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Shyam Kalyan N is a highly skilled Allergy and ENT Specialist dedicated to diagnosing and treating a wide range of ear, nose, throat, and allergy-related conditions. With expertise in advanced ENT care and allergy management, he provides personalized treatment plans that improve overall health and quality of life. Known for his patient-focused approach and clinical excellence, he combines modern medical practices with compassionate care to ensure long-term wellness.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

We are happy to help you. With the details you have provided and the photo you shared (attachment removed to protect patient identity), I have come to the conclusion that you are having an acute tonsillopharyngitis. This is the infection of pharynx (upper part of the throat) and your tonsils on each side. Now, we can conclude it as a streptococcal infection only based on the culture and sensitivity swab of the throat. I would suggest you get a throat swab done and start on symptomatic medications while you wait for the report. The symptomatic medications would be anti-inflammatory drugs to reduce edema, congestion and swelling, painkillers alleviate pain and warm water gargles soothe the area. Anti-inflammatory medications available in the combination of trypsin-chymotrypsin-rutoside-bromelain enzymes, which are usually taken before food twice a day. Painkillers can be simple Acetaminophen (dosage based on your weight) or Etoricoxib if the pain is severe. Consult your doctor, discuss with him or her and take the medicine with consent. Some other precautions and general measures that can aid in better healing are as follows: Avoidance of smoking, alcohol, spicy and oily foods, cold foods and drinks. Drink plenty of warm water and soups. Also, do salt water gargles.

Medically reviewed by iCliniq medical review team
Published At July 29, 2016
Reviewed At February 9, 2024

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Shyam Kalyan N is a highly skilled Allergy and ENT Specialist dedicated to diagnosing and treating a wide range of ear, nose, throat, and allergy-related conditions. With expertise in advanced ENT care and allergy management, he provides personalized treatment plans that improve overall health and quality of life. Known for his patient-focused approach and clinical excellence, he combines modern medical practices with compassionate care to ensure long-term wellness.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

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Sore Throat Strep Awareness Builder

Is your sore throat strep?

Five quick questions help you understand the typical progression of a sore throat, when to mention it to your doctor, and when it's worth a call today.

This tool provides educational information only and does not diagnose, treat, or replace professional medical advice. Consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalized medical guidance. Medications should be taken after consulting a physician. The dosages will be prescribed by the physician. Do not alter, start, or stop medications without consulting a healthcare professional.

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Shyam Kalyan N is a highly skilled Allergy and ENT Specialist dedicated to diagnosing and treating a wide range of ear, nose, throat, and allergy-related conditions. With expertise in advanced ENT care and allergy management, he provides personalized treatment plans that improve overall health and quality of life. Known for his patient-focused approach and clinical excellence, he combines modern medical practices with compassionate care to ensure long-term wellness.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

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