What to expect from a GP consultation for strep throat

Tell the GP when the sore throat began and whether you have fever, painful swallowing, swollen neck glands, tonsil coating, cough, runny nose or a hoarse voice. They may look at your throat with a light, feel the neck and check your temperature and general condition. These findings help distinguish streptococcal infection from viral illness, which can look similar. Depending on local practice and your symptoms, a throat swab or rapid test may be considered. Mention previous reactions to antibiotics and any difficulty swallowing fluids.

Bring your medicine and allergy list, and say what pain relief or throat products you have already used. Drink fluids if swallowing allows and avoid sharing utensils while you are unwell. If treatment is prescribed, take it exactly as directed and ask what to do if symptoms do not improve. Do not use leftover antibiotics.

Seek emergency help for difficulty breathing, inability to swallow saliva, drooling, a muffled voice, severe one-sided throat pain, neck swelling or rapidly worsening illness. Arrange prompt review if dehydration is developing or fever and throat pain are not settling as expected.

Ask whether testing is useful, which pain relief is safe with your medicines, when you can return to work or school, and which symptoms mean you need urgent reassessment.