It's been a busy week in doctor's offices across the area... with several throat conditions and a stomach bug.

On the Southwest side of Colorado Springs, Dr. Bridget Tewes with CSHP reports a growing number of viral pharyngitis. Symptoms include a red, painful sore throat, high fever, loss of appetite and sometimes a cough and runny nose as well.

Since it's viral, all you can do is treat the symptoms. Gargling with salt water will help, along with pain relievers, fluids and rest. Symptoms can last up to a week.

Another throat condition going around this week looks like strep. But, it's not. Dr. Alan Garscadden, on the East Side of the Springs, reports a rise in a condition where the throat is covered with thick, white spots. It's accompanied by swollen glands and big tonsils.

In both cases, it is important to be seen by a doctor to make sure the symptoms you're seeing aren't strep throat.

Also going around this week... a nasty gastrointestinal virus. Dr. Tom Bartlett with the Mountain View Medical Group reports an increase in adults. He says the bug starts with a fever, abdominal pain, cramping, nausea and vomiting. Most of these symptoms will last for 24-48 hours. But diarrhea may persist for 3-5 days after initial symptoms. Drink lots of fluids and take acetaminophen to fight fever.