Take prescribed antibiotics immediately (if a clinician confirms strep or you already have a prescription)
Start an over-the-counter pain reliever like ibuprofen or acetaminophen as directed on the label
Use warm salt-water gargles (½ teaspoon salt in 8 oz warm water) several times daily
Drink warm fluids (tea, broth) and stay well hydrated
Use throat lozenges or hard candy to soothe the throat
Use a humidifier or take warm steam showers to reduce throat irritation
Avoid smoking, vaping, alcohol, and very spicy or acidic foods
Replace your toothbrush after 24–48 hours of antibiotic treatment
Stay home and avoid close contact until you’ve been on antibiotics for at least 24 hours (or until advised if not using antibiotics)
If you have no antibiotic yet, contact urgent care/your doctor for testing and treatment as soon as possible
Seek urgent care immediately for trouble breathing, drooling, inability to swallow liquids, severe one-sided throat pain, muffled “hot potato” voice, or neck swelling