Strep Throat

What Is Strep Throat?

Strep throat is a common bacterial infection that affects the throat and tonsils. It is caused by group A Streptococcus bacteria and spreads easily through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Strep throat is most common in children but can affect people of all ages.

Other Names for Strep Throat

• Streptococcal pharyngitis
• Group A strep infection
• Streptococcus throat infection

How to Recognize Strep Throat

Causes:

Strep throat is caused by infection with group A Streptococcus bacteria. The bacteria spread through:

• Coughs and sneezes from an infected person.
• Sharing food, drinks or utensils.
• Touching contaminated surfaces and then touching your face.
  
  

Symptoms:

• Sudden and severe sore throat
• Pain when swallowing
• Red and swollen tonsils, sometimes with white patches or streaks of pus
• Tiny red spots on the roof of the mouth (petechiae)
• Swollen, tender lymph nodes in the neck
• Fever
• Headache and body aches
• Nausea or vomiting, especially in children
• Rash (in cases of scarlet fever)

How Strep Throat Is Diagnosed: Tests and Exams to Confirm Infection

A healthcare provider can diagnose strep throat by:

• Conducting a physical exam and reviewing symptoms.
• Performing a rapid strep test using a throat swab for quick results.
• Conducting a throat culture if further confirmation is needed.

Strep Throat Treatment: Antibiotics, Home Remedies, and Symptom Relief

Strep throat is treated with antibiotics, which help reduce symptoms, shorten the duration of the illness and prevent complications like rheumatic fever.

• Antibiotics: Penicillin or amoxicillin are commonly prescribed. Alternative antibiotics are available for those allergic to penicillin.
• Pain relievers: Over-the-counter medications like acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help relieve pain and reduce fever.
• Rest and hydration: Getting plenty of rest and drinking fluids helps the body recover.
• Soothe the throat: Gargling with salt water, using throat lozenges or drinking warm tea can ease discomfort.
  
  

Contact a health care provider if:

• Symptoms do not improve within 48 hours of starting antibiotics.
• You experience difficulty breathing or swallowing.
• You develop a high fever (over 101°F) that does not go away.
• You have a rash or severe neck swelling.

How to Prevent Strep Throat: Hygiene Tips to Stop the Spread of Infection

• Wash hands frequently with soap and water.
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
• Do not share personal items like utensils, cups, or toothbrushes.
• Cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing.
• Clean and disinfect commonly touched surfaces.

If you or your child experience symptoms of strep throat, schedule an appointment with your health care provider for diagnosis and treatment. Starting antibiotics early can reduce symptoms and prevent the spread of infection. Practicing good hygiene is the best way to protect yourself and others from strep throat.

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