How to Tell Flu From Strep

Strep and influenza, often referred to as the flu, have similar symptoms that make them difficult to tell apart. Fever, chills and a sore throat are symptoms of both illnesses. Fortunately, your doctor can perform tests to accurately diagnose these illness. It's important to see a doctor within the first few days of feeling any symptoms.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Check your throat for bright red tonsils and white spots, if you have a sore throat. Feel if you have swollen glands in the neck. These are signs of strep. The flu sometimes includes a sore throat, but not the other throat symptoms.

2. Note if you are feeling extreme exhaustion, fatigue, weakness and body aches. People with the flu complain of a "knocked-off-your-feet" feeling.

3. Notice if you have nasal congestion or a cough. These symptoms can be present with the flu, but are rare with strep.

4. Visit a doctor within a day or two. Your doctor can take a throat culture to test for strep or a nasal swab to test for the flu. A doctor usually prescribes antibiotics to clear up strep. Tamiflu is a prescribed medication that can greatly reduce flu symptoms, but it must be taken within the first 2 days of symptoms.

Tips & Warnings

• Young children may complain of stomach pain rather than throat pain with strep.
• Sometimes a rash appears with strep.
• Get a flu vaccination in October or November to reduce your chances of getting the flu. It's available as a shot or nasal spray.
• You can still get the flu after receiving a flu vaccination. Usually the symptoms are less severe.
• Check with your physician if you have flu symptoms and you are over age 65. You should also see your doctor at the first sign of flu if you have a history of respiratory problems or other chronic conditions, such as diabetes or heart disease.

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