What are the symptoms of strep throat?

The throat may look intensely red, and the tonsils can have white patches or streaks. Headache, chills, body aches, nausea, vomiting, or reduced appetite may occur, especially in children. A cough, runny nose, hoarse voice, or red eyes is more suggestive of a viral illness than classic strep throat, although symptoms can overlap. A sore throat alone cannot confirm the cause; a clinician may examine you and arrange a throat test.

Rest, drink fluids, and choose soft foods if swallowing hurts. Follow the label or a clinician’s advice for suitable pain or fever relief. Arrange a [GP Consultation](/treatments/consultations-and-assessment/gp-consultation/) if symptoms are strong, persistent, or affecting eating and drinking. Antibiotics may be recommended when testing or clinical assessment supports a bacterial infection; do not use leftover medicine.

Seek urgent medical help for difficulty breathing, inability to swallow fluids or saliva, drooling, severe one-sided throat swelling, a muffled voice, or rapidly worsening illness. Contact a clinician promptly for dehydration, a persistent high fever, a spreading rash, or symptoms that are not settling. A rash with a sore throat can occur with [Scarlet Fever](/conditions/scarlet-fever/), so it deserves assessment.

Ask whether your symptoms fit [Strep Throat](/conditions/strep-throat/) or another throat infection, whether a throat test is needed, and which treatment is appropriate. You can also ask how to manage [Difficulty Swallowing](/symptoms/difficulty-swallowing/) and when you can return to usual activities.