Comprehensive Strep Throat Treatment in San Rafael, CA

Strep throat is a bacterial infection that causes inflammation and soreness in the throat. It is most commonly caused by Group A Streptococcus bacteria and spreads easily through respiratory droplets from sneezing, coughing, or sharing utensils. If left untreated, strep throat can lead to serious complications such as rheumatic fever or kidney inflammation. At Medical Center of Marin, we provide fast and effective strep throat treatment in San Rafael, California, helping residents recover quickly and prevent further complications.

Recognizing Strep Throat Symptoms

Since strep throat can resemble other types of sore throats, it’s important to recognize the specific strep throat symptoms that indicate a bacterial infection. If you experience any of the following, you may need medical attention:

  • A sudden, severe sore throat
  • Pain while swallowing
  • Red, swollen tonsils (sometimes with white patches or streaks of pus)
  • Fever of 101°F or higher
  • Swollen lymph nodes in the neck
  • Headache, nausea, or vomiting (more common in children)
  • Body aches or a red rash

While not all sore throats are caused by strep bacteria, symptoms that persist or worsen should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.

How Strep Throat Is Diagnosed

To confirm whether your sore throat is caused by strep bacteria, a doctor will conduct a thorough examination of your throat and check for swollen lymph nodes. If strep is suspected, your provider may perform a rapid strep test, which involves swabbing the back of your throat to collect a sample.

At Medical Center of Marin, we offer on-site rapid strep testing, which provides fast and accurate results so you can begin strep throat treatment right away. If the rapid test is inconclusive, a throat culture may be sent to a lab for further analysis.

Effective Strep Throat Treatment

Once a strep throat diagnosis is confirmed, prompt treatment is essential to eliminate the infection and reduce symptoms. The most common treatment options include:

Antibiotics

  • A course of antibiotics, such as penicillin or amoxicillin, is prescribed to kill the bacteria and prevent complications.
  • Most patients start feeling better within 24 to 48 hours after beginning medication.
  • It’s important to complete the full antibiotic course to ensure the infection is fully eradicated.

Symptom Management

  • Gargling with warm salt water can help soothe a sore throat and reduce inflammation.
  • Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help alleviate fever, headaches, and throat pain.
  • Antibacterial mouthwash may also be recommended to reduce bacterial presence in the throat.

Hydration and Rest

  • Drinking plenty of fluids (water, herbal teas, or broths) helps prevent dehydration caused by fever.
  • Resting allows your immune system to fight off the infection more efficiently.

With proper strep throat treatment, symptoms typically improve within a few days, though it’s important to continue avoiding close contact with others until at least 24 hours after starting antibiotics to prevent spreading the infection.

When to Seek Urgent Care for Strep Throat

While mild sore throats often resolve on their own, strep throat requires medical attention. Visit Medical Center of Marin for urgent care for strep throat if you experience:

  • Persistent high fever
  • Severe throat pain or difficulty swallowing
  • Swelling in the neck or face
  • Breathing difficulties
  • A red rash accompanying the sore throat (scarlet fever symptoms)
  • Symptoms lasting longer than a week

Our urgent care for strep throat offers fast diagnosis and immediate treatment, ensuring you receive the care you need without waiting for a primary care appointment.

Insurance Plans Accepted at Medical Center of Marin

  • At Medical Center of Marin, we strive to make healthcare affordable and accessible. We accept a variety of insurance plans, including:
  • PPO Insurance Plans
  • Anthem Blue Cross
  • Blue Shield of California
  • Humana
  • ChoiceCare
  • UnitedHealthcare
  • Aetna
  • HealthNet
  • Cigna
  • Interplan
  • Medicare
  • HMO Insurance Plans
  • Aetna
  • Western Health Advantage
  • Meritage Medical Network
  • American Specialty Health
  • TRICARE West
  • Brown & Toland

If you have questions about insurance coverage for strep throat treatment, contact our office for assistance.

Fast & Reliable Strep Throat Treatment in San Rafael, CA

If you’re experiencing strep throat symptoms, don’t wait to seek treatment. At Medical Center of Marin in San Rafael, CA, we provide expert strep throat treatment, including on-site testing and urgent care services. Schedule your appointment online or visit our clinic today for fast, effective relief.