He completed his internship and residency at Grant Medical Center in Columbus. Dr. Coleman practices in association with Dr. Matthew Finneran and Dr. Michele Coleman. Most infections are caused by two types of germs, bacteria and viruses. Both germs can infect the same parts of our bodies. However, the signs and symptoms that they cause can help physicians distinguish one cause of illness from another.
Bacteria are the causative agents in strep throat, sinus infections, and most ear infections.
Strep throat classically presents with sudden onset of sore throat, painful swallowing, and fever. Symptoms like a runny nose, cough, and hoarseness are not common with strep throat and suggest that the sore throat may be caused by a virus rather than a bacteria. Though commonly believed, it is not true that enlarged tonsils and white patches in the throat are only caused by strep. It is actually difficult to look in someone's throat and tell whether or not they have strep. Therefore, the best way to distinguish strep vs. viral sore throat is by the use of a culture.