Strep throat, or streptococcal pharyngitis, is a bacterial infection of the throat and tonsils. It is a common condition caused by the bacteria group A Streptococcus, and requires swift treatment to avoid complications. It is important to be aware of its symptoms, causes, and treatment options to manage it effectively.
Symptoms of Strep Throat
Strep throat normally has a quick onset of symptoms, and some of the possible symptoms are:
- Severe Sore Throat: Strep throat’s most defining symptom is a sudden and intense pain in the throat.
- Dysphagia: You’re likely to find swallowing painful or difficult, as a result of inflammation in the throat.
- Red and Inflamed Tonsils: The tonsils can become red and swollen, possibly with white spots or streaks of pus.
- Fever: The infection is often accompanied by a high fever, often above 101°F.
- Swollen Lymph Nodes: Painful and swollen lymph nodes in the neck are common.
- Headache and Body Aches — More generalized discomfort, including headaches and muscle aches, can occur.
- Nausea or Vomiting: These symptoms are less common but can affect children and adults.
Cough, runny nose and hoarseness are unusual in strep throat and suggest that the infection is likely viral instead.
Causes and Transmission
The group A Streptococcus bacteria causes strep throat. It is transmitted via respiratory droplets from the mouth when an infected person coughs, sneezes or talks. Bacteria could also be spread through sharing utensils, cups, or direct contact with contaminated surfaces. It is highly infectious and can easily spread in crowded settings, such as schools, daycares and military barracks.
Diagnosis
Healthcare providers do specific tests to diagnose strep throat accurately:
- Rapid Strep Test: A quick test that involves finding strep bacteria in a throat swab. Results are usually available in minutes.
- Throat culture: If the rapid test is negative but there is still suspicion, a throat culture may be done. This means systematically culturing a sample taken from a throat swab that is callused to bacteria, with results shown in 24 to 48 hours.
Treatment Options
Prompt treatment of strep throat is important to relieve pharyngeal symptoms, prevent complications, and reduce contagion.
- Antibiotics: The bacteria is usually treated with penicillin or amoxicillin. The full course of antibiotics should be taken in old formulations to ensure the complete elimination of the infection and to minimize complications.
- Symptom Relief: Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can help lower fever and ease throat pain.
- Supportive Care: Rest and fluids are important. Soothing warm liquids, throat lozenges, and gargling with warm salt water may help for additional relief.
Prevention Strategies
The key to preventing the spread of strep throat is good hygiene:
- Hand Hygiene: Regular handwashing with soap and water or using hand sanitizer can reduce the risk of transmission.
- Respiratory Etiquette: Ensure to retain mouth and nose with tissue or elbow when neglecting or sneezing, as this would deter the transmission of respiratory droplets.
- Avoid Sharing Personal Items: Do not share plates, glasses, or personal items from a board game with others.
- Stay Home When Sick: Individuals who have been diagnosed with a strep throat should stay home from work, school or daycare until they have been on antibiotics for at least 24 hours and are fever-free.
Complications of Untreated Strep Throat
When strep throat is not treated, it can cause serious problems such as:
- Rheumatic Fever: A serious inflammatory disease that affects the heart, joints, skin, and brain.
- Post-Streptococcal Glomerulonephritis: An inflammation of the kidneys that may develop following a strep infection.
- Peritonsillar Abscess: An accumulation of pus near the tonsils, which can lead to intense discomfort and swelling.
When To Get Medical Attention
You should see a health care provider if you or your child has:
- A Persistent Sore Throat: A sore throat that lasts longer than 48 hours.
- Difficulty in Swallowing or Breathing: Severe pain or obstruction.
- High Fever: Particularly, when it is higher than 101°F.
- Rash: A red rash with a sore throat could be scarlet fever.
Like any other chronic condition, early detection and treatment is the key to prevent complications and accelerate recovery.
At Absolute Urgent Care, we are committed to providing prompt and comprehensive care for strep throat and other illnesses. Our experienced healthcare providers are equipped to diagnose and treat strep throat effectively, ensuring your health and well-being.
