How to Know if you have Strep Throat

Strep throat is extremely painful and can be highly contagious. If after reading this article you find yourself positive of most of the symptoms, you should visit your doctor; strep throat can quickly turn severe if not tended to in a timely matter.

Instructions

1. Examine the back of your throat.

   One home strep throat test you can conduct by yourself is to check the back of your throat. If the tonsil area is very red, or if you have white patches in the back of your throat, you may likely have strep. Use a flashlight and the help of a friend if you are having trouble seeing the back of your throat.

2. Check to see if it hurts when you swallow.

   Strep throat is very painful and not easily mistakable for a regular sore throat. If you are having trouble swallowing and a lot of throat pain, you may want to see your doctor for a strep throat test.

3. Access your other symptoms.

   Strep throat can also come with a long list of symptoms that are similar to a regular flu. You may get a stomach ache, headache, neck ache (usually due to the severe sore throat), nausea or bone ache.

4. Take your temperature.

   A fever is often associated with strep throat. Check your temperature for a fever if you are having other strep symptoms.

5. Take a strep throat test.

   To be sure whether or not you have strep throat, visit your doctor, or take a home strep throat test. It is important to act quickly if you think you have strep throat; don't wait for symptoms to worsen before seeing your doctor.

Tips & Warnings

• See your doctor as soon as possible if you think you have strep throat.