Strep throat is more than an uncomfortable nuisance. It can become serious if left untreated. Caused by Streptococcus bacteria, it can spread easily and may lead to severe complications without proper treatment. However, being able to distinguish between strep throat and just a regular sore throat requires you to know and understand the signs and symptoms associated with this condition.
Strep throat is a bacterial infection impacting the tonsils and throat, unlike most sore throats, which are viral. It’s most common in winter and early spring, particularly among children in group settings like schools, though adults can get it too. Antibiotics are essential to treat strep and prevent complications like rheumatic fever, which can harm the heart, kidneys, or joints.
Common Strep Throat Symptoms
Symptoms often come on quickly and may include:
• Sore throat
• Swollen tonsils with white patches
• Fever and chills
• Difficulty swallowing
• Headache, bad breath
• Nausea, stomach pain, or vomiting
• Rash
• Acute fatigue in some cases
Is It Strep Throat or a Sore Throat?
The bacteria responsible for strep throat typically do not impact the lower respiratory tract, which explains the absence of phlegm production. A cough may indicate that the sore throat is of viral origin rather than bacterial, suggesting that it is not associated with strep throat.
How Strep Throat Spreads
Strep throat is a highly contagious infection. Following exposure, it may take several days for symptoms to manifest. Notably, the bacteria can be transmitted to others a few days before the onset of symptoms and remains contagious until the affected individual has been on antibiotics for at least 24 hours. Transmission can occur when a person with strep throat sneezes, coughs, or releases respiratory droplets that contain the bacteria. These droplets may come into contact with surfaces and transfer the bacteria to a person’s mouth, nose, or eyes, spreading the risk of infection.
Developing Strep Throat Without Tonsils
It is possible to contract strep throat even in the absence of tonsils. However, the lack of tonsils may reduce the severity or frequency of strep throat infections.
Treatment Options
Strep throat can be diagnosed through the administration of a rapid strep test. During this procedure, a healthcare provider will obtain a throat swab and analyze it for the presence of the bacterium responsible for strep throat. Results are typically available within a matter of minutes. Furthermore, to confirm the diagnosis, a throat culture may be performed. Although this method requires a longer processing time, it can detect infections that the rapid strep test may not show.
If your diagnostic results are positive, your healthcare provider will likely prescribe amoxicillin or penicillin, antibiotics that are effective against streptococcal bacteria and are generally associated with minimal side effects. These antibiotics mitigate the risk of complications associated with strep throat and facilitate a more rapid alleviation of symptoms.
Soothing Strep Throat at Home
Rest and hydration are key to recovery. Additional remedies include:
Over-the-counter pain medicine
You can use OTC medications for pain relief. However, some cold medicines aren’t suitable for young children due to serious side effects. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for safe options and dosages.
Gargling
If your child can gargle, it may help reduce pain. Mix one-quarter teaspoon of salt with eight ounces of warm water to create a mouthwash. Gargle three times a day until symptoms improve.
Warm liquids
A traditional remedy, such as chicken soup, can be advantageous in certain circumstances. Warm, saline fluids in soups and broths can soothe the tissues of a sore throat effectively.
Homemade freezer pops
If consuming liquid proves difficult, consider making freezer pops from sports drinks containing electrolytes. These pops offer a modest amount of glucose and necessary hydration, and their cooling effect can relieve a sore throat.
What is the Typical Duration of Strep Throat?
Although streptococcal infections may resolve independently, there is a considerable risk of serious complications, particularly in pediatric patients. The administration of antibiotics can mitigate these risks and relieve associated symptoms, facilitating a more comfortable recovery process. Most patients prescribed antibiotics for strep throat begin to feel better within 48 hours. Recovery time can vary based on the severity of the illness, the condition of the immune system, and the amount of rest.
Preventing the Spread
If you or anyone in your family has strep throat, wash your hands frequently to eliminate any bacteria. Avoid sharing household items, particularly plates, glasses, and utensils. Prompt everyone to cover their mouth and nose when they cough or sneeze.