Experiencing a Sore Throat
As a 35-year-old woman, I recently faced a health concern that began when my 6-year-old son was diagnosed with strep throat. He tested positive through a rapid test and started antibiotics right away, experiencing significant improvement by the following day. In contrast, I noticed the onset of a sore throat upon waking up. I consulted a telehealth service and was prescribed a Z-pack (azithromycin). Unfortunately, after three days, I had not experienced any relief, prompting me to visit urgent care. There, a rapid test indicated that I did not have strep throat. The healthcare provider decided to send a culture for further testing and prescribed me Keflex (cephalexin) to take home. Now, on my third day of this new medication, I find that my symptoms remain unchanged. Could it be that I have contracted a viral infection coincidentally alongside my son's bacterial strep throat? I have not developed a fever or any additional signs—just this persistent sore throat.
Answers (1)
8/20/2025, 6:42:13 PM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable to be concerned about your sore throat, especially given your recent exposure to your son's strep throat. While it’s possible that you could have a separate viral infection, other factors may also be at play.
Key Points:
- Your symptoms may not indicate strep throat given the negative rapid test and lack of fever.
- A viral infection is likely, particularly since strep and cold/flu viruses can circulate simultaneously.
- Persistence of symptoms after antibiotics could indicate a non-bacterial cause.
Explanation:
Sore throats can result from various sources, including viral infections (like the common cold), allergies, dry air, or irritants. Since you’ve been on Keflex for a few days without improvement and did not have a fever, this leans towards a viral origin rather than strep throat. Strep typically improves rapidly with antibiotics, and since your son improved quickly while you did not, it suggests your sore throat isn’t due to the same infection.
Next Steps:
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Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of how your symptoms progress daily. Look out for new signs such as fever,Body aches, or shortness of breath that might indicate a different issue.
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Symptom Relief:
- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids to soothe your throat.
- Gargle Salt Water: This can help reduce throat discomfort. Mix 1/2 teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water and gargle several times a day.
- Humidify your Environment: If the air in your home is dry, especially in colder months, use a humidifier to ease throat irritation.
- Over-the-Counter Pain Relief: Consider using throat lozenges, sprays, or pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen (if not contraindicated) to alleviate discomfort.
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Follow Up: If your sore throat does not improve in the next several days, or if you develop new symptoms, you may need to revisit your healthcare provider for further evaluation, which could include checking for viral infections or other possible causes.
Let me know if you have further concerns or questions!
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