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What is Streptococcal Pharyngitis (Strep Throat)?
Written by Medicover Team and Medically Reviewed by Dr Manohar Hanmant Suryawanshi , ENT
Streptococcal pharyngitis, commonly known as strep throat, is a bacterial infection that causes inflammation and pain in the throat. It is caused by group A Streptococcus bacteria. While it's particularly common in children between ages 5 and 15, adults can contract it too, especially those in close contact with children or in communal living settings like schools, daycares, dormitories, and military barracks.
What are theCauses of Streptococcal Pharyngitis?
Strep throat spreads easily through respiratory droplets. When an infected person coughs, sneezes, or speaks, droplets containing the bacteria can be inhaled or land on surfaces. You can become infected by:
- Breathing in these droplets
- Touching contaminated objects and then touching your nose or mouth
- Sharing personal items like utensils or cups
- Coming into contact with infected skin sores
Because it's highly contagious, quick diagnosis and treatment are essential not just for recovery but also for reducing spread.
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Get Second OpinionStreptococcal Pharyngitis vs. Viral Pharyngitis
Differentiating between streptococcal pharyngitis and viral pharyngitis is critical because the treatment approaches differ significantly. While both conditions cause sore throats, there are key differences:
- Bacterial vs. Viral: Streptococcal pharyngitis is caused by bacteria, whereas viral pharyngitis is caused by various viruses.
- Onset and Severity: Streptococcal pharyngitis often has a rapid onset with more severe symptoms, while viral pharyngitis may develop gradually.
- Fever: High fever is more common in streptococcal pharyngitis.
- Cough and Runny Nose: These are more typical of viral pharyngitis and are usually absent in bacterial infections.
What are the Symptoms of Streptococcal Pharyngitis?
Recognizing the streptococcal pharyngitis symptoms can lead to faster diagnosis and treatment. Symptoms usually appear abruptly and may include:
- Sore Throat: A severe and persistent sore throat that makes swallowing difficult is a hallmark symptom.
- Fever: A high fever, often exceeding 101°F (38.3°C), is commonly associated with strep throat.
- Red and Swollen Tonsils: The tonsils may appear red and swollen, sometimes with white patches or streaks of pus.
- Headache: Many individuals experience headaches alongside other symptoms.
- Swollen Lymph Nodes: Tender and swollen lymph nodes in the neck are often present.
- Rash: In some cases, a fine, red rash known as scarlet fever may develop.
- Nausea and Vomiting: These symptoms are more common in children with strep throat.
Diagnosis: How Do You Know If It's Strep?
A healthcare provider can determine whether you have strep throat by evaluating your symptoms and conducting one or both of the following tests:
Rapid Antigen Detection Test (RADT)
This test uses a throat swab to detect Streptococcus bacteria. It delivers results in minutes and is highly specific. If the test is positive, treatment can begin right away.
Throat Culture
A throat culture involves swabbing the throat and allowing the sample to grow in a laboratory setting. Although it takes longer to obtain results (usually 24-48 hours), this method is highly accurate and is often used to confirm a negative RADT result.
What are the Treatments Options for Streptococcal Pharyngitis?
Once a diagnosis is confirmed, appropriate treatment is essential to alleviate symptoms, prevent complications, and reduce the risk of transmission. Streptococcal pharyngitis treatments includes:
Antibiotics
Antibiotics are the primary treatment for streptococcal pharyngitis. Penicillin or amoxicillin is typically prescribed as the first-line treatment.For individuals allergic to penicillin, alternative antibiotics such as cephalexin or azithromycin may be used. It is crucial to complete the entire course of antibiotics, even if symptoms improve, to ensure the eradication of the bacteria.
Symptomatic Relief
In addition to antibiotics, symptomatic relief measures can help manage discomfort and fever:
- Pain Relievers: Over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen can reduce throat pain and fever.
- Hydration: Drinking plenty of fluids helps keep the throat moist and prevents dehydration.
- Rest: Adequate rest is essential for the body to fight off the infection.
- Gargling Salt Water: Gargling with warm salt water can soothe a sore throat and reduce swelling.
Home Remedies for Streptococcal Pharyngitis (Strep Throat)
In addition to antibiotics, various home remedies and self-care strategies can help relieve discomfort:
- Drink warm liquids like tea or broth to soothe the throat.
- Gargle with warm salt water to reduce inflammation.
- Use throat lozenges or ice pops to numb the throat.
- Take pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen to reduce pain and fever.
- Rest and stay hydrated to support your immune system.
- Use a cool-mist humidifier to keep throat tissues moist.
Important: Do not give aspirin to children or teenagers, as it may lead to Reye's syndrome, a rare but serious condition.
Complications: What Happens If You Don't Treat It?
If left untreated, streptococcal pharyngitis can lead to severe complications, including:
- Rheumatic Fever: An inflammatory disease that can affect the heart, joints, skin, and brain.
- Post-Streptococcal Glomerulonephritis: A kidney disease that can develop after a strep infection.
- Peritonsillar Abscess: A painful collection of pus near the tonsils that may require drainage.
- Scarlet fever: A strep-related rash that can become widespread
- Invasive streptococcal infections: Potentially life-threatening conditions like toxic shock syndrome or necrotizing fasciitis
Prevention of Streptococcal Pharyngitis
Preventing the spread of streptococcal pharyngitis involves several vital practices:
- Hand Hygiene: Wash your hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
- Avoid Sharing Personal Items: Do not share eating utensils, cups, or personal items with an infected person.
- Covering Mouth and Nose: When coughing or sneezing, use a tissue or elbow to cover your mouth and nose.
- Stay Home When Sick: Individuals with strep throat should stay home until they have been on antibiotics for at least 24 hours and are no longer contagious.
When to See a Healthcare Provider?
You should contact your provider if:
- Symptoms don't improve within 1 to 2 days of starting antibiotics
- A fever returns after initial improvement
- You experience severe fatigue, joint pain, or shortness of breath
- You develop a rash, ear pain, or swelling in the neck
- You have signs of complications such as dark urine, chest pain, or difficulty breathing
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Our Experience Treating Streptococcal Pharyngitis
At Medicover Hospitals, we offer timely and caring treatment for patients suffering from streptococcal pharyngitis (strep throat). Our skilled team of doctors uses accurate diagnostics like rapid strep tests to ensure early detection and effective treatment.
Using personalized antibiotics and symptom alleviation treatments, we are able to help our patients get back on their feet in no time and avoid complications. Whether it's a child or adult, we prioritize comfort, care, and clear communication at every step. At Medicover, your health and peace of mind are always our top priorities.
