Strep Throat: Symptoms, Causes & Treatment

Strep throat is a bacterial infection that causes soreness and scratchiness in the throat. Only a small percentage of sore throats are caused by strep throat. It can lead to problems such as kidney irritation or rheumatic fever if left untreated. Rheumatic fever can cause painful and inflamed joints, a specific type of rash, and damage to the heart valves. Children are the most common victims of strep throat, although it may afflict anyone of any age. If you or your kid develops strep throat symptoms, consult your doctor right away for testing and treatment.

Strep Throat Symptoms

The following are some of the signs and symptoms of early strep throat:

• A severe pain in the throat.
• Swallowing is painful.
• Tonsils that are red and swollen, with white patches or pus streaks.
• Tiny red patches on the roof of the mouth, near the back (soft or hard palate)
• Neck lymph nodes that are swollen and painful
• Fever
• Headache
• Rash
• Nausea or vomiting, especially in children under the age of six.
• Aches in the body

Many of these signs and symptoms may be present in you or your kid, yet you or your child may not have strep throat. A viral infection or another sickness could be the source of these signs and symptoms.

Strep Throat Causes

Bacterial Infection (Streptococcus pyogenes):

Strep throat is predominantly caused by an infection with Streptococcus pyogenes bacteria, commonly known as group A streptococcus. This bacterium is highly contagious and primarily spreads through respiratory droplets expelled by infected individuals through coughing, sneezing, or talking. Additionally, touching surfaces contaminated with the bacteria can also facilitate transmission.

Close Contact:

Close contact with an infected person, such as living in the same household or being in crowded environments like schools or daycare centres, increases the risk of contracting strep throat. The bacteria can quickly spread in such settings, especially among individuals with weakened immune systems.

Weakened Immune System:

Individuals with weakened immune systems due to factors such as stress, fatigue, malnutrition, or underlying health conditions are more susceptible to developing strep throat infections. A compromised immune system may not effectively combat the streptococcal bacteria, allowing them to increase and cause disease.

Poor Hygiene:

Poor hygiene practices, such as inadequate handwashing, can contribute to the spread of streptococcal bacteria. Failing to wash hands properly after coughing, sneezing, or using the restroom can transfer bacteria to surfaces and increase the risk of transmission to others.

Seasonal Factors:

Strep throat infections often peak during the fall and winter months, coinciding with the cold and flu season. The colder weather and indoor crowding create optimal conditions for the spread of respiratory infections, including strep throat.

Risk factors

Several things can increase your chances of contracting strep throat:

How Can Strep Throat be Prevented?

To avoid strep infection, take the following precautions:

Diagnosis

Your doctor will perform a physical examination, search for signs and symptoms of strep throat, and most likely prescribe one or more of the tests listed below:

Strep Throat Treatment

Some medications can be used to treat strep throat, alleviate its symptoms, and avoid complications and spread.

Antibiotics

The primary treatment for strep throat is a course of antibiotics, typically penicillin or amoxicillin, to eradicate the bacterial infection. Antibiotics help reduce the duration and severity of symptoms, prevent complications, and minimize the spread of the infection to others. It's essential to complete the entire course of antibiotics as prescribed by a healthcare professional, even if symptoms improve before finishing the medication.

Pain Relief Medications:

Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) or acetaminophen (Tylenol) can help alleviate symptoms of sore throat, fever, and discomfort associated with strep throat. These medications can also reduce inflammation and provide relief from headaches or body aches.

Throat Lozenges or Sprays: Throat lozenges containing numbing agents like benzocaine or throat sprays with soothing ingredients such as menthol can help relieve throat pain and irritation caused by strep throat. These products can provide temporary relief and improve swallowing comfort.

Hydration and Rest:

Adequate hydration and rest are essential for supporting the body's immune response and promoting recovery from strep throat. Drinking plenty of fluids, such as water, herbal teas, or warm broth, helps soothe the throat and prevent dehydration. Resting allows the body to sustain energy and focus on fighting the infection.

Warm Saltwater Gargle:

Gargling with warm salt water can help reduce throat inflammation, alleviate pain, and promote the healing of irritated tissues. Dissolve half a teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water and gargle several times a day, being careful not to swallow the mixture.

Humidifier or Steam Inhalation:

Using a humidifier or inhaling steam from a bowl of hot water can moisten the airways, soothe throat irritation, and ease breathing. Adding essential oils such as eucalyptus or peppermint to the steam can provide additional relief from congestion and discomfort.