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Suggest Treatment For Sore Throat, Nausea And Headache
Question: Hello! I woke up today with a headache, sore throat, nausea, and have been feeling feverish on and off all day. I took ibuprofin for the fever and sore throat/muscle aches, but I'm wondering if it might be strep?
Brief Answer:
Go for strep test.
Detailed Answer:
Hi,
Welcome to health care magic,
I have read your whole query and will be answered by me.
Sore throat,fever,nausea and headache are symptoms of upper respiratory infection.
Majority of cases of throat pain are due to viral infection, but in some cases (20-30%) it can also be related to bacterial infection (like you have asked about streptococcal infection).
However,to rule out bacterial infection you will have to for strep test and some routine blood works with blood culture (if required further) before taking antibiotics as it is slightly difficult to differentiate the underlying cause (whether bacterial or viral) clinically.
Only after the tests reports we would be able to say exactly.
Meanwhile you should continue to take symptomatic medications,
1) Pain killers with anti-inflammatory combination (paracetamol 500 + ibuprofen 400) drugs for fever,sore throat and headache which are available over the counter.
2) Antihistamines like levocetrizine or benadryl if you have a dry cough or cold.
3) Nebulization with steam inhalation 2 to 3 times daily and warm salt water gargles which will also be helpful for symptomatic relief.
Hope this will help you,feel free to ask if you have more questions.
Thanks and Regards,
Dr.Sandip Kabra
Go for strep test.
Detailed Answer:
Hi,
Welcome to health care magic,
I have read your whole query and will be answered by me.
Sore throat,fever,nausea and headache are symptoms of upper respiratory infection.
Majority of cases of throat pain are due to viral infection, but in some cases (20-30%) it can also be related to bacterial infection (like you have asked about streptococcal infection).
However,to rule out bacterial infection you will have to for strep test and some routine blood works with blood culture (if required further) before taking antibiotics as it is slightly difficult to differentiate the underlying cause (whether bacterial or viral) clinically.
Only after the tests reports we would be able to say exactly.
Meanwhile you should continue to take symptomatic medications,
1) Pain killers with anti-inflammatory combination (paracetamol 500 + ibuprofen 400) drugs for fever,sore throat and headache which are available over the counter.
2) Antihistamines like levocetrizine or benadryl if you have a dry cough or cold.
3) Nebulization with steam inhalation 2 to 3 times daily and warm salt water gargles which will also be helpful for symptomatic relief.
Hope this will help you,feel free to ask if you have more questions.
Thanks and Regards,
Dr.Sandip Kabra
Note: Consult an experienced Otolaryngologist / ENT Specialist online for further follow up on ear, nose, and throat issues - Book a Call now.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Prasad
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