How To Distinguish A Viral Infection From A Bacterial Infection

The most common cause of sore throat is either a viral or bacterial infection in the throat. Strep throat is the most common throat infection that occurs in the throat due to bacteria. Whereas, the common cold is the most common type of viral infection resulting in a sore throat.

What is the difference between Sore Throat and Strep Throat?

Strep throat is an infection that develops due to streptococcus bacteria. When a person comes in direct contact with an infected person’s saliva, it spreads. Moreover, it is more common in children  belonging to the age group 5-15. 

90 percent of sore throat occurs due to viral infection. The most common viral infection that develops in the throat is a common cold. The viruses responsible for the common cold are rhinoviruses. 

Strep throat is considered to be more serious than cold. It is not prudent to leave a strep throat untreated for long as these can cause complications such as rheumatic fever. Hence, it is crucial to get medical attention when there are symptoms of strep throat. 

How to differentiate between viral and bacterial infection for Sore Throat

In order to identify which one is causing sore throat- viral or bacterial infection- the knowledge of symptoms is important. 

Symptoms of Viral Infection For Sore Throat

When there is inflammation in the throat due to virus such as rhinovirus, the following symptoms are likely to occur-

  • Cough 
  • Scratchy throat and tonsils
  • Earache 
  • Moderate Fever 
  • Lump on the neck 
  • Runny nose
  • Hoarseness of voice
  • Body aches
  • Sore in the mouth 

Symptoms of Strep Throat for Sore Throat

Unlike viral attack, the symptoms that can develop after a bacterial infection is quite different. People are likely to experience the following-

  • Sudden soreness in the throat without runny nose or nasal congestion
  • Difficulty in swallowing
  • Fever over 100.4 F
  • White patches on the tonsils
  • Swelling of the lymph nodes
  • Tiny red spots on the roof of the mouth
  • Headaches
  • Ear infections
  • Rashes
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Rheumatic fever 

Who is more likely to develop Strep Throat?

Approximately 15 to 40 percent of cases of sore throat in children of age group occur due to strep throat. Every year, almost millions of cases are reported in the United States of America.

Unfortunately, strep throat cannot be diagnosed by simply looking at the throat. Hence, at the doctor’s clinic, they can take a throat swab to detect the presence of the bacteria. There are two tests that can confirm- throat culture and rapid strep test. 

Treatment of Sore Throat Due To Viral or Bacterial Infection

Once the diagnosis is confirmed for sore throat, start treatment immediately. Viral infection can be alleviated within a week by following proper diet and taking some precautionary steps.

However, the prognosis of strep throat is different. It is important to curb the infection from spreading by staying home until the fever lowers or the course of antibiotics starts. Do not share food or drinks with others or prepare food by washing hands frequently. 

Home Remedies To Cure Sore Throat in Adults and Children

Fortunately, there are some remedies to try at home to cure sore throat. However, if it’s a strep throat, only antibiotics can work.

  • Gargle with warm saltwater in the ration of 1 is to 5.
  •  Take warm liquids with honey and lemon juice
  • Breathe in moist air
  • Consume medicated throat lozenges
  • Use throat sprays
  • Add ginger in your meal
  • Garlic can help