What does strep throat feel like?

Strep throat is a bacterial infection that causes a sharp, burning throat pain that can make swallowing feel unbearable. Unlike a mild sore throat from a cold, strep throat often feels raw and inflamed, making it difficult to eat, drink, or even talk. While the term “strep throat” is widely known, its symptoms can sometimes be confused with other conditions. Let’s explore exactly what it feels like to have strep throat and how it affects your body. 

One of the most distinct features of strep throat is how quickly it strikes. One evening, your throat might feel normal, but by the next morning, it can feel like you’ve swallowed razor blades. The pain is sharp and concentrated in the throat and tonsils, making each swallow feel more excruciating than the last. Unlike a cold, where the throat irritation builds up gradually¹, strep throat pain appears suddenly and can escalate within hours. 

Symptoms such as a cough, sinus pressure and  nasal congestion are typically not associated with strep throat. Gastric symptoms like diarrhea and vomiting are also not typically associated with strep throat. A cough is more common in a viral infection such as a cold. You are also less likely to have nasal congestion or stomach problems such as nausea or diarrhea.²

Strep throat will also often bring a high fever, usually above 101°F, which also comes on fast and often is accompanied by chills and body aches. A strep patient may also have sudden feelings of cold or heat—shivering one minute, sweating the next. In its own way, the fever is a good thing. It indicates the body is working hard to fight off the A streptococcus bacteria that causes strep throat, but it can also make you feel weak and tired. . Instead, the fever comes with a headache and general discomfort, leaving you feeling worn out and generally unwell.¹

Strep throat takes more than a physical toll—it also can have a significant impact on your mental health. The pain and discomfort, along with the fatigue and fever, can make a person feel upset and discouraged, especially if you cannot complete your normal daily activities, such as walking the dog or playing with your children.

Moreover, some studies suggest that up to 30 percent of strep throat patients experience some form of brain fog during or after their illness.⁵ Strep bacteria make your immune system release inflammatory molecules called cytokines, which are great at fighting off the infections but can interfere with neurotransmitter function, disrupt neural pathways, and disrupt cognitive processes. 

If you are feeling emotionally depleted, remind yourself that strep throat is a temporary illness and with proper treatment, you will recover fully and quickly. Remember that taking the time to heal and rest is also an important part of recovery.