Throat and vocal cord issues come in both common and rare forms. For example, about 10,000 cases of vocal cord cancer are diagnosed every year in the United States. However, strep throat is much more common issues that are easier to treat. Here’s what patients should know about diagnosing and treating strep throat.
What is strep throat?
First, it’s important to have a general idea of what strep throat actually is so that you can understand and recognize its most common symptoms:
“Strep throat is a bacterial infection that causes inflammation and pain in the throat. This common condition is caused by group A Streptococcus bacteria. Strep throat can affect children and adults of all ages. However, it’s especially common in children between the ages of 5 and 15. Sneezing and coughing can spread the infection from one person to another,” writes Valencia Higuera on Healthline.
Symptoms of sore throat
Symptoms of a sore throat also overlap with symptoms of other health issues, like the common cold. For example, a fever that’s 101 degrees F or higher indicates an infection, and the throat gets very sore and covered with white patches. Patients are also likely to experience a headache, a loss of appetite, chills, and trouble swallowing if they have a sore throat. Fortunately, ear nose and throat doctors can diagnose and treat the issue easily.
When to Call ENT doctors
While it’s never a bad idea to call an ENT doctor to discuss your symptoms, there are several symptoms that do indicate the need for professional evaluation. Call your ear nose and throat doctor if you experience a sore throat that lasts two or more days, difficulty breathing and/or swallowing, or red and white patches on the throat, tonsils, and/or top of the mouth.
Ultimately, don’t hesitate to reach out to a qualified ear nose and throat doctor to gain more insight about whether or not the symptoms you’re experiencing are consistent with those of strep throat. If so, rest assured that the issue is normally cleared up within a week or two. For more information about ear nose and throat doctors in McKinney, contact Ear Nose and Throat Associates of Texas PA.
