If you experience symptoms like a sore throat, persistent cough, or fatigue, you may have a throat or respiratory infection such as strep throat, bronchitis, or a cold. These conditions can impact individuals of all ages and often spread rapidly, especially during seasonal changes or where people gather, such as MARTA, Mercedes Benz Stadium, schools, food halls, and more.

 

At Piedmont Urgent Care, we’re here to provide timely, trusted care for throat and respiratory infections with walk-in availability, same-day care, the ability to book ahead online, and virtual visits. Our clinics are open seven days a week from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., and you will be seen by certified medical professionals to get the care you need. Our goal is to make it easy for you to get lasting relief from your symptoms as soon as possible.

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Recognize the Signs of Common Respiratory Infections & Sore Throat Symptoms

Respiratory and throat infections often start with mild discomfort but can quickly escalate without proper care. Common sore throat symptoms and signs of respiratory virus infections include:

 

  • Scratchy or painful throat
  • Hoarseness or voice changes
  • Cough (dry or productive)
  • Nasal or chest congestion
  • Sinus pressure or facial pain
  • Fever, chills, or swollen lymph nodes
  • General fatigue and body aches

 

Some symptoms - like fever or congestion - can mimic allergies, the flu, or COVID-19, making accurate diagnosis essential. Our certified providers use in-clinic testing (including PCR tests) and medical evaluations to offer fast, expert evaluations to help you get the answers you need.

Red-Flag Symptoms To Watch For

 

There are some symptoms that may point to a more serious condition and should be evaluated by a medical professional right away. These red-flag symptoms include:

 

  • Persistent high fever that doesn't respond to medication
  • Severe sore throat or sudden throat pain
  • Wheezing or tightness in the chest
  • Symptoms lasting longer than 10 days

 

If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, please visit your nearest Piedmont Urgent Care clinic to receive prompt care and treatment with a same-day evaluation.

 

*If you experience severe difficulty breathing or other life-threatening symptoms, please call 911 or visit your nearest emergency room as soon as possible.

Top Causes of Respiratory & Throat Infections in Georgia

Allergies

Georgia's high allergen and pollen levels can trigger allergy symptoms that mimic a respiratory infection, including coughing, congestion, and throat irritation. Untreated allergies can increase your risk of contracting a respiratory infection. Seeking relief from your allergies can help lower your risk of infection.

 

Get Allergy Relief

Asthma flares

Bronchitis/Pneumonia

Colds

COVID-19

Influenza (flu)

RSV

Sinus infections

Strep/sore throat

Diagnosing a Sore Throat or Viral Respiratory Infection Fast

When you're feeling under the weather, waiting for answers can be frustrating. At Piedmont Urgent Care, we prioritize speed and accuracy to help you get the relief you need as soon as possible. During your visit, our medical team will review your symptoms, perform a thorough exam, and use rapid tests for strep throat, influenza, RSV, or COVID-19, as well as PCR tests for COVID-19, when appropriate. Most results are available within minutes, and we offer throat cultures or advanced lab testing if needed.

 

A clear diagnosis ensures you get the right treatment. That could mean antibiotics for bacterial infections or supportive care for viral culprits. Depending on your treatment plan, you may even be able to pick up prescribed medications on-site, making it easier to start recovery without an extra stop.

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Respiratory Infection Treatment & Care for Severe Sore Throat

At Piedmont Urgent Care, treatment is tailored to your diagnosis. We may recommend rest, fluids, or OTC relief for viral infections, or we may recommend antibiotics for confirmed bacterial cases. Care may also include prescription cough suppressants, throat lozenges, fever reducers, or nebulizer therapy. Same-day prescriptions and on-site medication dispensing help you begin recovery immediately, and you can expect expert guidance for home care.

 

Walk in, book ahead, or schedule a virtual appointment today if you’re experiencing sore throat or respiratory symptoms. Our team will help you get started on the road to recovery so you can get back to feeling like yourself again.