Sore Throat
Available at both our Palm Beach Gardens and Stuart locations
Fast Relief for Sore Throat & Strep Testing
Sore throat treatment requires identifying whether your symptoms are caused by strep bacteria, viral infection, or another condition to ensure appropriate care. We provide rapid strep testing and comprehensive evaluation, allowing our medical providers to prescribe effective treatment when needed. Walk-ins welcome at both Palm Beach Gardens and Stuart locations, open daily 8am-8pm.
When to Seek Sore Throat Care
- Severe throat pain that makes swallowing difficult
- Fever accompanying throat pain
- White patches or pus on tonsils
- Swollen, tender lymph nodes in the neck
- Persistent sore throat lasting more than 3-5 days
- Difficulty breathing or opening your mouth fully
- Rash appearing with throat symptoms
- Hoarse voice lasting more than two weeks
- Throat pain after exposure to someone with strep throat
- Symptoms not improving with over-the-counter treatments
How We Diagnose & Treat Sore Throat
Our evidence-based approach combines rapid diagnostic testing with thorough clinical evaluation. We perform on-site strep testing to quickly determine if bacterial infection is present, enabling our medical providers to prescribe appropriate antibiotics when indicated. For viral causes, we focus on symptom management and supportive care recommendations tailored to your specific condition.
What to Expect During Your Visit
Diagnostic Capabilities
Recovery Timeline & Self-Care
According to CDC guidelines, strep throat symptoms typically improve within 24-48 hours of starting antibiotics, though completing the full antibiotic course is essential. Viral sore throats usually resolve within 5-7 days with supportive care. Rest, adequate hydration, warm salt water gargles, and over-the-counter pain relievers can help manage symptoms. Return for evaluation if symptoms worsen, fever persists beyond 48 hours of treatment, or difficulty breathing develops. This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have a medical emergency, call 911 immediately. For urgent but non-emergency conditions, visit True Compassion Urgent Care at either our Palm Beach Gardens or Stuart location. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for personalized medical advice.
Available at Both Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
We perform rapid strep testing on-site with results typically available during your visit. This allows our medical providers to make immediate treatment decisions and prescribe antibiotics if needed before you leave. In some cases, we may send a throat culture for confirmation, which takes 24-48 hours, but treatment can begin based on rapid test results and clinical presentation.
No appointment is necessary. We welcome walk-ins daily from 8am to 8pm at both our Palm Beach Gardens and Stuart locations. You can also call ahead if you prefer, but it's not required. Our goal is to provide convenient access to care when you need it most.
Antibiotics are prescribed only when bacterial infection, such as strep throat, is confirmed through testing. According to medical guidelines, approximately 20-30% of sore throats in adults are caused by strep bacteria, while most are viral. Our medical providers follow evidence-based protocols to ensure you receive appropriate treatment based on your specific diagnosis.
Please bring your photo ID, insurance card if you have coverage, and a list of current medications including over-the-counter drugs and supplements. This information helps our medical providers deliver safe, effective care and avoid potential drug interactions.
While most sore throats are caused by common viral or bacterial infections, some symptoms warrant immediate evaluation. Seek emergency care if you experience severe difficulty breathing, inability to swallow saliva, drooling, or a muffled voice. Visit urgent care for persistent symptoms, high fever, severe pain, or symptoms that worsen despite treatment.
If diagnosed with strep throat, you're most contagious before starting antibiotics and during the first 24 hours of treatment. The CDC recommends staying home from work or school until you've been on antibiotics for at least 24 hours and are fever-free. Practice good hygiene by washing hands frequently, covering coughs and sneezes, and avoiding sharing utensils or drinks.
Strep throat is caused by Group A Streptococcus bacteria and typically presents with sudden severe throat pain, fever, swollen lymph nodes, and white patches on tonsils, usually without cough or runny nose. Viral sore throats often include cold symptoms like cough, congestion, and runny nose. Only testing can definitively distinguish between bacterial and viral causes, which is why we provide rapid strep testing.
While many sore throats resolve on their own, untreated strep throat can lead to complications including rheumatic fever, kidney inflammation, or abscess formation. If you have severe symptoms, high fever, or suspect strep exposure, prompt evaluation is recommended. Our walk-in service makes it convenient to get tested and treated early, reducing both symptom duration and complication risk.
This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. The content on this page is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease or health condition. Always consult your physician or qualified healthcare provider with any questions about a medical condition.
In case of a medical emergency, call 911 immediately. Do not rely on this information for emergency medical treatment.
No physician-patient relationship is created by viewing this content. This information does not replace in-person evaluation and treatment by a licensed medical professional.
Ready to Get Care?
Walk-ins welcome at both locations. Open daily 8am-8pm.