In Houston, Texas, it’s common to experience a sore throat due to changes in weather, pollen, or the passing of infections. But knowing whether you’re dealing with strep throat or seasonal allergies can help you seek the proper treatment. While both conditions can affect the throat, they have different causes, symptoms, and solutions. Here’s how to tell the difference—and when to visit Medella Urgent Care for fast, effective relief.
What Is Strep Throat?
Strep throat is a bacterial infection caused by Group A Streptococcus. It spreads through coughing, sneezing, and close contact with an infected person. This type of sore throat often develops suddenly and is more intense than the irritation caused by allergies.
Common signs of strep throat include:
- Severe throat pain
- Difficulty or pain when swallowing
- Red, inflamed tonsils, often with white patches
- Fever, usually over 101°F
- Swollen glands in the neck
- General fatigue or body aches
If you’re experiencing these symptoms, it’s essential to get evaluated by a medical professional. At Medella Urgent Care, we offer rapid strep tests and provide same-day results, allowing you to receive the treatment you need without delay.
What Are Seasonal Allergies?
Unlike infections, seasonal allergies are caused by your immune system reacting to common environmental triggers like pollen, mold, and dust. Houston’s warm climate means high pollen levels are a concern for much of the year, especially in the spring and fall.
Symptoms of allergy-related throat irritation include:
- Mild sore throat or scratchy sensation
- Post-nasal drip, which can irritate the throat
- Sneezing and nasal congestion
- Watery or itchy eyes
- Runny nose
- No fever or body aches
A sore throat from allergies usually builds slowly and is often accompanied by typical allergy symptoms. You may notice that your throat feels worse in the morning or after spending time outside.
How to Tell the Difference Between Strep and Allergies
The key to identifying the cause of your throat pain lies in the details. Strep throat tends to develop quickly and severely, often accompanied by fever and visible throat inflammation. In contrast, allergies cause milder, more persistent discomfort that comes and goes with exposure to allergens. Itchy eyes, sneezing, and nasal symptoms are more common with allergies, while strep throat is more likely to cause fever and fatigue.
If you’re unsure, visit Medella Urgent Care. Our team can evaluate your symptoms and provide clear answers on whether you’re facing an infection or an allergic reaction.
When to Seek Urgent Care for Throat Pain
Not every sore throat needs immediate treatment, but some signs mean it’s time to see a doctor. Come to Medella Urgent Care if:
- Your throat pain is severe or worsening
- You have a high fever
- You notice white patches or swelling in your throat
- You have difficulty swallowing
- Your symptoms last more than a few days without improving
We treat patients of all ages and provide walk-in care with extended hours every day of the week. Whether it’s a weekday evening or a weekend morning, you can count on us to provide fast, professional urgent care for throat pain.
Trust Medella Urgent Care
No one wants to deal with lingering throat discomfort or guesswork when it comes to their health. At Medella Urgent Care, we provide accurate diagnoses and effective treatments for strep throat, allergies, and other non-emergency medical concerns. We’re proud to serve the Magnolia and Vintage Park, TX, areas with compassionate, convenient care that fits your schedule.
Contact us or walk in today for expert urgent care for throat pain—no appointment necessary!
