Strep Throat And Sore Throat

At Emcura Medical, we have been diagnosing sore throats accurately and effectively for over 10 years.  We always take a complete history, including sick exposures, do a complete examination, and test using the most advanced in-house testing in the area.  We can also perform a blood draw to rule out other causes of sore throat, including MONO.  Many area clinics do not perform a blood draw in-office or offer the advanced in-house DNA strep testing we offer.  

We start our management of sore throat with a complete history.   We ask about common symptoms of sore throat which include pain, discomfort, or scratchiness in the throat. Symptoms might also include swollen red tonsils, white patches or pus on your tonsils, or a hoarse or muffled voice.  Other infections that cause a sore throat might also result in other signs and symptoms including fever, cough, runny nose, body aches, headache, and nausea or vomiting.  This discomfort can be caused by a variety of factors, including bacterial or viral infections, or allergies.  In addition, environmental factors like dry air, smoking, or exposure to pollutants can also cause a sore throat.  

At Emcura Medical and Immediate Care, we worry about the following medical conditions:  

Strep throat

Strep throat is a specific type of bacterial infection that can present with a sore throat, fever, enlarged lymph nodes, or atypical symptoms like headache and abdominal pain. A fine lacy rash on the face and upper chest can also occur in later stages.  It is caused by a strain of bacteria called Streptococcus pyogenes, commonly referred to as group A streptococcus (GAS). Group C and G Strep can also cause pain but are self-limiting in nature.  If untreated, Group A Strep can progress to scarlet fever, rheumatic fever, and peritonsillar abscess.

Strep Throat, Severe

Strep Throat, Moderate

Viral Sore Throat:

Viral sore throat is typically caused by a viral infection, such as the common cold, flu, or respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). These infections are highly contagious and can be spread through coughing, sneezing, or touching contaminated surfaces. Viruses account for 90% of sore throat presentations, and in most cases, will go away on their own within a week or two. It is wise to rule out Strep as a cause if your sore throat is not improving.

Viral Sore Throat

Epstein Barr Virus/ Mono:

Epstein Barr Virus, also known as EBV or Mononucleosis (Mono for short), is a type of virus that can cause a sore throat. When EBV causes a sore throat, it is usually accompanied by other symptoms such as fatigue, fever, and swollen lymph nodes. Mono is more common in teenagers and young adults and the virus is typically spread through contact with infected saliva such as through kissing or sharing utensils. It can take several weeks or even months to fully recover from the infection. Athletes need to be especially careful as splenic rupture can occur with sporting activities. At Emcura Medical, diagnosing mono typically involves a blood test to check for the presence of antibodies to the virus and a rapid Monospot blood test. We can also order an ultrasound to check for splenic enlargement. Treatment for mono typically involves rest, fluids, and over-the-counter pain relievers to manage symptoms.

Epstein Barr / Mono Virus - Enlarged Tonsils and Significant Exudate in a Mono-Positive Patient

Covid/ Flu/ RSV:

If you're experiencing a sore throat and suspect COVID-19 might be the cause, we provide advanced COVID and COVID/FLU/RSV testing options onsite. Since symptoms of COVID-19, the flu, and RSV can often overlap, this testing modality allows us to determine the accurate diagnosis, ensuring you receive the most appropriate treatment and care plan. Our highly trained healthcare professionals will administer our tests, following the latest testing protocols and guidelines. With quick turnaround times of as little as 10 minutes for rapid testing or 1 -2 hours for PCR testing, we aim to provide you with peace of mind and facilitate timely decision-making regarding your health.

Accuracy Matters – Onsite Advanced Testing at Emcura Immediate Care

Our advanced devices onsite at all sites include our ID NOW DNA strep machine, our COVID or COVID/FLU/RSV PCR machine, and more.

DNA Strep Testing

1-2 Hour- In-House PCR testing

We were the first clinic in Michigan to offer onsite DNA strep A testing with our ID NOW machine and we remain one of the only clinics in the area to offer this option (95% sensitive and specific) with no need for culture (optional).  Our PCR testing for COVID or COVID/ FLU/ RSV is highly advanced and can provide results in as little as 45 minutes.  We also offer conventional rapid antigen testing for Strep, Flu Covid, and RSV.  We can also perform Mono testing with a finger prick or order a full antibody panel for accuracy (initial, dormant, reactivation, or no Mono infection).  For more severe cases, we can place an IV and order steroids.  We always do more!

At Emcura Immediate Care,  we take pride in our integrative approach to healthcare. Along with comprehensive testing services, our experienced medical team will assess your overall condition and provide personalized care for your sore throat. We'll address your symptoms, consider any underlying health concerns, and tailor a treatment plan that meets your specific needs. Our goal is to deliver efficient and compassionate care, ensuring your well-being.  

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