Strep Throat: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment
Strep throat is a bacterial infection that causes inflammation and pain in the throat. The Streptococcus pyogenes bacteria cause it and make it highly contagious.
In this blog, we are going to review the causes, symptoms, prevention, and treatment for Strep Throat.
The more you know, the better you can fight against this nasty bug!
What Are the Causes of Strep Throat?
Group A Streptococcus bacteria cause strep throat, and these bacteria are highly contagious.
The bacteria can be spread through airborne droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes, or through sharing food, drinks, or utensils with an infected person.
Is Strep Throat Common?
Strep throat is common among children, but it can affect people of all ages. It spreads easily in crowded environments like schools, daycares, and households.
What Are the Common Symptoms of Strep Throat?
The symptoms of strep throat can include:
- Sore throat
- Difficulty swallowing
- Red and swollen tonsils
- White patches or pus on the tonsils
- Fever
- Swollen lymph nodes in the neck
- Headache
- Stomach ache
How to Prevent Strep Throat?
To prevent strep throat, it’s important to practice good hygiene.
This includes:
- Washing your hands regularly, especially before eating or touching your face.
- Avoid close contact with anyone who has a known strep throat infection.
- Avoid sharing and using personal items such as utensils, glasses, or toothbrushes. Keeping your immune system strong through a healthy diet.
- Get regular exercise.
- Make to you are getting adequate rest.
How is Strep Throat Diagnosed?
Doctors usually diagnose strep throat through a rapid strep test or a throat culture.
The rapid strep test involves swabbing the back of the throat to collect a sample.
A laboratory then test the sample for the presence of streptococcus bacteria.
If your rapid strep test produces a negative result, your healthcare provider may perform a throat culture to confirm the results.
What is the Treatment for Strep Throat?
The treatment for strep throat usually involves antibiotics, such as penicillin or amoxicillin.
It’s important to complete the full course of antibiotics as prescribed by the doctor, even if the symptoms improve before the medication is finished.
Over-the-counter pain relievers can help alleviate the symptoms of sore throat and fever.
Getting plenty of rest and staying well-hydrated is essential.
Always remember to seek medical attention if you suspect you have strep throat. Without antibiotic treatment, strep throat can lead to complications.
Visit our urgent care today for prompt symptom assessment, testing, and treatment.
