Verified By Apollo Ent Specialist September 11, 2023
9153Have you recently noticed any pain or aches in your throat with difficulty in swallowing? Well, you might have a sore throat. A sore throat can cause pain and irritation with a scratchy feeling in your throat. It is mostly associated with respiratory tract infections such as cold or flu.
Streptococcal sore throat is a type of infection caused by Group A streptococcus bacteria that causes throat and tonsils’ inflammation. It is highly contagious
Strep throat mostly affects children of 5 to 15 years of age, although it can affect adults. Its symptoms are similar to any sore throat or throat infections, but some differentiating factors make it unique.
Strep throat is caused by a bacterial infection. You should know that not all sore throats are the result of a streptococcus infection. There are many causes for a sore throat including other bacterial and viral infections and allergic causes as well . A sore throat can occur due to various reasons such as cold, flu, postnasal drip, acid reflux, etc. A Strep throat will present as a white patch and dark red spots over the tonsils, accompanied by fever, joint pain, rash, dehydration, difficulty breathing, etc.
Usually, most common sore throats have viral causes , but a strep throat is a bacterial infection caused by group A streptococci. These infections can spread through droplets i.e. when an infected person coughs or sneezes, that bacteria can infect people who are in proximity. The person may also get infected if they come in contact with an infected surface. It can also spread through dry air, smoking, etc.
The presentation of clinical signs and symptoms may differ from person to person. The initial symptoms may only start with a mild feeling of pain and later result in a full-blown infection. The symptoms of Strep throat may appear as early as five days after getting affected or exposed to the bacteria.
The risk factors associated with Strep sore throat are:
A Strep throat infection can resolve within a few days to a week with proper treatment. It can lead to complications such as:
You can prevent Strep throat by maintaining personal hygiene, washing your hands regularly either with soap, water, or sanitizers.
Make sure not to share your food or drink with others. Keep all your stuff separated from others such as soap, towels, sheets, etc. Sneeze or cough using a handkerchief or into the crook of the elbow instead of hands.
You should immediately book an appointment with your doctor if you notice any of the following signs:
The treatment protocol for Strep throat includes both home remedies and medical treatment.
To start medical treatment, your doctor /physician will first perform various tests such as a blood test, throat culture, allergic tests to confirm the diagnosis.
Your doctor will then prescribe some antibiotics such as Amoxicillin, Azithromycin, Penicillin, etc. to control the infection.
Mild painkillers such as Ibuprofen and Acetaminophen may also help ease throat pain during the infection period.
Follow a routine to maintain personal hygiene, wear face masks or stay at home during the infection period, as these steps can help in the early cure of the disease and decrease the spread of the infection.
The content is medically reviewed and verified by experienced and skilled ENT (Ear Nose Throat) Specialists for clinical accuracy.
October 25, 2024