There are several conditions that can mimic the symptoms of strep throat, including:
- Viral infections such as the common cold, flu, or mononucleosis (also known as “mono”).
- Allergies that cause post-nasal drip and a sore throat.
- Acid reflux or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) which can cause irritation and inflammation of the throat.
- Tonsillitis or pharyngitis caused by bacterial or viral infections.
- Chronic sinusitis which can cause a persistent sore throat.
- Epiglottitis, a serious bacterial infection that can cause severe throat pain and difficulty breathing.
It is important to consult a healthcare provider to accurately diagnose the cause of your sore throat, especially if you have symptoms such as a fever, swollen glands, difficulty swallowing or breathing, or a rash. A throat swab test may be performed to confirm whether strep throat is the cause of your symptoms.
