Everyone fears the early signs of getting sick. Stuffy nose, coughing, headaches, fever, sore/scratchy throat – these are all common symptoms that people will try to treat at home with store-bought medication. While store-bought medicine and rest can sometimes help, it is not always enough. Strep throat is one example of a condition that is best treated with professional care.
If you need efficient, effective and professional care without having to wait several weeks for an appointment, then our urgent care is the place for you. Since you do not need an appointment, we can offer you the care you need when you need it.
When it comes to treating strep throat, we can provide the fast-acting and effective treatment to help you recover quickly.
After we determine the extent of the strep throat in the patient, we will recommend the most effective treatment. With our treatment, we offer patients:
In many cases, we will prescribe antibiotics that are stronger and more effective than store-bought medications. Most of the time, these are oral antibiotics the patient will take at least once a day for several days or weeks following the initial condition.
While the patient may only need to take the antibiotics for about a little over a week after starting the treatment, some patients may need more time. Since each patient is unique, there is no one-size-fits-all treatment. With this treatment, people should begin to feel an improvement in a day or two.
One factor that people may not always realize is that it is crucial to follow the medication directions we give. Patients need to finish the medication and take a specific amount each day. By completing the treatment, the patient will stand the best chance of fighting off the symptoms during recovery.
While you may be tempted to wait a sore throat or cold out by resting at home, strep throat is much worse. Signs that you need to visit us to treat strep throat include:
If you struggle with these symptoms for more than a day and do not show signs of getting better, visit us as soon as possible. With our flexible hours and walk-in capabilities, patients do not need to schedule ahead of time and can just show up that very day.
We understand that it can be difficult to tell the difference between a simple cold and strep throat. However, avoiding a professional examination can allow a condition to get worse and cause other health problems. Thus, we strive to answer any and all questions the patient may have. Here are a few common questions and our answers to them.
How Long will the Appointment Take?
We will be as efficient as possible while being thorough. The appointment time should not take too long but can vary per patient.
How Long will I be on Antibiotics?
Most will be on the antibiotics for a week or more. This will also vary on the extent of the patient’s condition. We will go over the specifics with the patient during the appointment. If necessary, we can make changes to the dosage following another checkup.
How can I tell the Difference between a Cold and Strep Throat?
In many cases, a cold or sore throat will go away after a few days. However, if the symptoms are intense enough, then seek a professional opinion. Along with that, store-bought medication does not seem to be as effective in providing temporary relief when it comes to strep throat.
What else can I do at Home to Help?
Get plenty of rest. When sick, the body is using most of its energy to fight the sickness. Far too often, people with strep throat will avoid this and not get the proper rest they need to help recharge the body. Another option is to get a humidifier and set it up in the bedroom.
Are there any Foods or Drinks I can take to Help Ease the Pain?
Gargling salt water can help to relieve congestion in the throat while eating soup will be easier than solid foods. Tea with some honey can also help to ease the pain. We can go over other dietary options during a consultation.
Eldridge Family Clinic is located at
1809 Eldridge Pkwy, Suite 208
Houston,
TX
77077