A Sore Throat: What’s Causing It?
A scratchy, painful throat can be more than just a nuisance—it might signal a bacterial infection known as strep throat, or a much more common viral issue. Here’s what to look for:
Strep Throat Symptoms
Bacterial:
- Sudden, intense sore throat
- Fever of 38 °C (100.4 °F) or higher
- Pain when swallowing
- White or yellow spots on the tonsils or back of the throat
- In children, possible nausea, vomiting, or tummy ache
Viral (Common Cold/Flu):
- Gradual onset of sore throat
- Runny nose, cough, hoarse voice, or pink eye
- Diarrhea (especially in children)
These overlapping symptoms can make it tricky to tell what you’re dealing with—until now.
Why Testing Matters?
Guessing isn’t the best plan. Over-prescribing antibiotics for a viral infection can cause more harm than good, including antibiotic resistance. That’s where rapid strep testing comes in.
- Antigen detection tests (rapid tests) can be completed and give results in about 15 minutes
- If the test is positive, it confirms a Group A streptococcus infection—then antibiotics could help. If it’s negative, the infection is likely viral, and antibiotics won’t help—and may even do harm
At Our Pharmacy: Testing & Prescribing On-Site
Yes, you read that right! At our pharmacy, not only can we perform rapid strep testing, but we also have prescribing pharmacists who can assess whether antibiotics are appropriate—all in one visit.
This is what we offer:
- Pre-screening to identify if strep testing makes sense
- Onsite rapid strep testing (if appropriate) with quick results
- Evaluation by a prescribing pharmacist to decide if antibiotics are needed
- Guidance on over-the-counter remedies, symptom relief, and preventative measures
Steps to Get Help—Simple and Safe
- If you feel that familiar scratch or ache in your throat you suspect strep throat, call us first.
- We’ll assess your symptoms and let you know if having a Strep throat swab is suggested.
- If appropriate, a throat swab can be booked and performed. Results are ready within 15 minutes.
- Our pharmacist will interpret the results. If they’re positive, antibiotics may be prescribed to shorten your illness and reduce complications. If they’re negative, it’s likely viral and we’ll guide you on symptom relief without unnecessary antibiotics.
- Get advice on self-care—think hydration, rest, soft foods, and medications to ease fever and pain.
Final Word: Don’t Wait—Act Quickly
A sore throat might be viral—or it might be strep. Call today for fast, reliable assessment, on-site testing and expert guidance from our prescribing pharmacists. We’re here to help you feel better—and stay better.
Call us or come in today. Your throat (and well-being!) will thank you.
