(27M) Is My Strep Throat Getting Worse Despite Antibiotics? Seeking Guidance
UPDATE: This morning, I noticed a significant reduction in the white spots on my affected tonsil, which I hope indicates improvement. However, my throat continues to hurt at a similar level. I just completed my sixth dose of amoxicillin and today I’m feeling somewhat chilly and clammy. Overall, the sore throat appears to be showing slight signs of progress. Once again, it seems to feel better during the day. There’s no fever, my blood pressure appears normal, and my blood oxygen saturation is within the usual range. I began experiencing a sore throat on Tuesday morning and by that evening around 6 PM, I tested positive for strep throat. I started my antibiotics that same night. So far, I have taken five 500mg doses of amoxicillin. I’m nearing the end of my second day on the medication and heading into the third. Curiously, my throat pain seems to have increased since yesterday and the very first day, which makes me wonder if I am overreacting. I’m just trying to determine if another visit to the doctor is necessary. Additionally, I am taking 400mg of ibuprofen every six hours to help manage the pain.
Answers (1)
8/29/2025, 7:43:02 PM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you're navigating a challenging situation with your strep throat and managing your symptoms thoughtfully. Here are the main points and some guidance for your situation:
Main Points
- You are on antibiotics (amoxicillin) for strep throat, and while you notice some improvement (reduction in white spots), throat pain persists.
- It's common for throat pain to fluctuate, especially when starting antibiotics.
- Feeling chilly and clammy may be concerning, but without fever or other alarming symptoms, it can be less critical.
Explanation
Strep throat typically improves within 2 to 3 days of starting antibiotics, but it’s normal for the throat pain to fluctuate at first. Signs of improvement, like the decrease in white spots, are encouraging, but continued pain can happen as the body heals. The clammy feeling might be a response to inflammation or a reaction to pain, rather than an indication of worsening infection.
Next Steps
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Continue the Antibiotics: Complete the full course of amoxicillin as prescribed, even if you’re feeling slightly better. This is essential to ensure the infection is fully treated.
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Pain Management: Continue taking ibuprofen every six hours as you have been. If the pain persists or worsens despite this, consider increasing your hydration or alternating ibuprofen with acetaminophen (Tylenol), if you can take it safely.
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Monitor Symptoms: Keep an eye on any changes in your symptoms. Note if you develop a fever, severe headaches, difficulty swallowing, or rapid difficulty breathing; these would be causes to seek medical attention promptly.
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Reassess After 48 Hours: If you still feel miserable or your symptoms worsen after another 48 hours of antibiotics, a follow-up visit may be warranted for further evaluation.
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Stay Hydrated and Rest: Drink plenty of fluids and rest your voice as much as possible to support your recovery.
It's understandable to be concerned, and you're doing a great job managing your symptoms. If you have further questions or if your condition changes, feel free to reach out!
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