How is strep throat diagnosed and treated. What antibiotics are most effective for strep throat. How long does it take to recover from strep throat. Can strep throat lead to complications if left untreated. What home remedies can help alleviate strep throat symptoms. How can you prevent the spread of strep throat.

Understanding Strep Throat: Causes and Diagnosis

Strep throat is a bacterial infection caused by group A Streptococcus bacteria. Unlike viral sore throats, strep throat requires specific treatment to prevent complications and reduce contagion. To diagnose strep throat, healthcare providers typically perform a rapid strep test.

Is the rapid strep test always accurate? While rapid strep tests are generally reliable, in some cases, a throat culture may be necessary for definitive diagnosis. This is especially true if the rapid test is negative but symptoms persist.

Antibiotic Treatment: The First Line of Defense

Once strep throat is confirmed, antibiotics are the primary treatment. These medications are crucial for several reasons:

• Eliminating the bacteria causing the infection
• Alleviating symptoms more quickly
• Reducing the contagious period
• Preventing potential complications

Which antibiotics are most commonly prescribed for strep throat? Penicillin and amoxicillin are typically the first-choice antibiotics due to their effectiveness, safety profile, and affordability. For individuals with penicillin allergies, alternative antibiotics may be prescribed.

Duration and Administration of Antibiotic Treatment

Antibiotic treatment for strep throat usually lasts about 10 days. The medication may be administered orally or, in some cases, as an injection. It’s crucial to complete the entire course of antibiotics, even if symptoms improve before the medication is finished.

Why is it important to finish the entire course of antibiotics? Completing the full antibiotic course ensures that all bacteria are eliminated, reducing the risk of recurrence and antibiotic resistance.

Managing Side Effects of Antibiotic Treatment

While antibiotics are generally safe, they can cause side effects in some individuals. Common side effects may include:

• Nausea
• Diarrhea
• Stomach pain
• Rash

These side effects are usually mild and resolve once the treatment is complete. However, if symptoms persist or worsen, it’s important to consult a healthcare provider.

Are allergic reactions to antibiotics common? While rare, allergic reactions to antibiotics can occur. Symptoms of an allergic reaction may include severe rash, itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing. If these symptoms occur, immediate medical attention is necessary.

Home Remedies and Supportive Care for Strep Throat

In addition to antibiotic treatment, various home remedies and over-the-counter medications can help alleviate symptoms and promote recovery:

1. Pain relievers: Acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help reduce fever and relieve throat pain.
2. Rest: Adequate rest allows the body to focus on fighting the infection.
3. Gargling with salt water: This can help soothe a sore throat.
4. Throat lozenges or hard candy: These can provide temporary relief for older children and adults.
5. Hydration: Drinking plenty of fluids helps prevent dehydration and soothes the throat.
6. Soft foods: Consuming easy-to-swallow foods can minimize throat discomfort.
7. Humidifiers: Adding moisture to the air can help alleviate throat irritation.

How effective are natural remedies in treating strep throat? While natural remedies can help alleviate symptoms, they should not replace antibiotic treatment. Antibiotics are essential for eliminating the bacterial infection and preventing complications.

The Contagious Period and Return to Normal Activities

Strep throat is highly contagious, especially during the early stages of infection. However, the contagious period significantly decreases once antibiotic treatment begins.

When is it safe to return to school or work after strep throat? Individuals with strep throat are typically no longer contagious after 24 hours of antibiotic treatment. At this point, it’s generally safe to return to school or work, provided other symptoms have improved.

Preventing the Spread of Strep Throat

To minimize the risk of spreading strep throat to others, consider the following precautions:

• Practice good hand hygiene
• Cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing
• Avoid sharing personal items like utensils or drinking glasses
• Replace your toothbrush after starting antibiotic treatment

Potential Complications of Untreated Strep Throat

While strep throat is generally treatable, failing to address the infection promptly can lead to serious complications. These may include:

• Sinus and tonsil infections
• Abscesses around the tonsils
• Rheumatic fever
• Kidney inflammation (post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis)

What is rheumatic fever, and how is it related to strep throat? Rheumatic fever is a serious inflammatory condition that can develop 1-5 weeks after an untreated strep throat infection. It affects the heart, joints, skin, and brain, potentially leading to long-term complications.

Understanding Rheumatic Fever

Rheumatic fever is not contagious itself but results from the body’s immune response to the strep infection. Common symptoms of rheumatic fever include:

• Fever
• Painful and tender joints
• Chest pain
• Fatigue
• Skin rash
• Neurological symptoms (e.g., involuntary movements)

How can rheumatic fever be prevented? The most effective way to prevent rheumatic fever is to promptly treat strep throat infections with appropriate antibiotics.

Long-term Management and Follow-up Care

After completing antibiotic treatment for strep throat, most individuals recover fully without complications. However, in some cases, follow-up care may be necessary.

When should you seek additional medical attention after strep throat treatment? If symptoms persist or worsen after completing antibiotic treatment, or if new symptoms develop, it’s important to consult a healthcare provider. This could indicate antibiotic resistance or the development of complications.

Recurrent Strep Throat: Causes and Management

Some individuals may experience recurrent strep throat infections. Possible reasons for recurrence include:

• Incomplete antibiotic treatment
• Reinfection from close contacts
• Weakened immune system
• Antibiotic resistance

How can recurrent strep throat be managed? Management strategies for recurrent strep throat may include extended antibiotic courses, investigating potential carriers in close contacts, or, in rare cases, considering tonsillectomy.

Emerging Research and Future Treatments

While current treatments for strep throat are generally effective, ongoing research aims to improve diagnosis, treatment, and prevention strategies. Some areas of focus include:

• Development of more rapid and accurate diagnostic tests
• Research into new antibiotic formulations
• Exploration of alternative treatment approaches
• Progress towards a strep throat vaccine

Is a strep throat vaccine possible in the future? While still in development, researchers are working on potential vaccines to prevent strep throat infections. These could significantly reduce the incidence of strep throat and its complications.

The Role of Probiotics in Strep Throat Management

Recent studies have explored the potential benefits of probiotics in managing strep throat and mitigating antibiotic side effects. Probiotics may help:

• Support the immune system
• Reduce the risk of antibiotic-associated diarrhea
• Promote a healthy balance of gut bacteria

Can probiotics prevent strep throat? While probiotics show promise in supporting overall immune health, they are not a substitute for antibiotic treatment in strep throat cases. More research is needed to determine their specific role in prevention and management.

Strep Throat in Special Populations

While strep throat can affect individuals of all ages, certain populations may require special considerations in diagnosis and treatment:

Strep Throat in Children

Children, especially those between 5 and 15 years old, are more susceptible to strep throat infections. Considerations for pediatric cases include:

• Age-appropriate diagnostic methods
• Proper dosing of antibiotics based on weight
• Monitoring for potential complications
• Education on prevention and hygiene practices

Are infants at risk for strep throat? While less common, infants and toddlers can develop strep throat. However, the presentation may be atypical, making diagnosis more challenging.

Strep Throat During Pregnancy

Pregnant women with strep throat require careful management to ensure both maternal and fetal health. Considerations include:

• Selection of pregnancy-safe antibiotics
• Close monitoring for potential complications
• Balancing symptom relief with medication safety

What antibiotics are safe for treating strep throat during pregnancy? Penicillin and certain other antibiotics are generally considered safe during pregnancy, but treatment should always be under the guidance of a healthcare provider.

Strep Throat in Immunocompromised Individuals

People with weakened immune systems may be at higher risk for severe strep throat infections and complications. Management may involve:

• More aggressive antibiotic treatment
• Closer monitoring for potential complications
• Additional preventive measures

The Impact of Strep Throat on Public Health

Strep throat not only affects individuals but also has broader implications for public health:

• Economic impact due to missed work and school days
• Burden on healthcare systems, especially during peak seasons
• Potential for outbreaks in close-contact settings (schools, daycares)
• Concerns about antibiotic resistance with improper use

How can public health measures help control strep throat? Public health initiatives focusing on education, proper hygiene practices, and appropriate antibiotic use can help reduce the incidence and impact of strep throat in communities.

Global Perspectives on Strep Throat

The prevalence and management of strep throat can vary globally due to factors such as:

• Differences in healthcare access and resources
• Variations in antibiotic prescribing practices
• Cultural differences in seeking medical care
• Environmental and socioeconomic factors influencing transmission

How do global variations impact strep throat management? Understanding these differences is crucial for developing effective global strategies to combat strep throat and its complications, particularly in resource-limited settings.

Strep Throat Treatment: Antibiotics, Contagious Period, Recovery

What Are the Treatments for Strep Throat?

Strep throat, caused by bacteria, is one type of sore throat that can be treated. It isn’t handled in the same way as sore throats caused by colds and other viruses, so your doctor will likely do what’s called a “rapid strep test” to be sure it’s strep

If the test is positive (meaning you or your child has it), they’ll probably recommend:

• Antibiotics to kill the bacteria that’s causing it
• Rest to help you get better faster
• Over-the-counter medicines and home remedies to ease symptoms

Antibiotics

This class of drugs is able to kill the group A Streptococcus bacteria that cause strep throat. They will work only on bacteria. They have no effect on sore throats caused by viruses.

Antibiotics can:

• Relieve a sore throat and other symptoms when they are caused by strep
• Help your child get better faster
• Make it less likely it will be spread to others
• Help prevent complications such as sinus and tonsil infections, and more serious things such as rheumatic fever

Doctors most often prescribe penicillin or amoxicillin (Amoxil) to treat strep throat. They are the top choices because they’re safer, inexpensive, and they work well on strep bacteria.

Kids or adults who are allergic to penicillin may be able to take one of these antibiotics instead:

Your child will take antibiotics by mouth one to three times each day. Sometimes doctors give this medicine as a shot.

Side effects

Antibiotics sometimes cause side effects, such as:

Usually these side effects are mild. They should stop once your child finishes the medicine. If they are severe or persist, then call your doctor.

People sometimes have an allergy to antibiotics, though it is rare. Symptoms of an allergic reaction may include:

Call your doctor right away if your child has these symptoms.

How long do I take them?

Most antibiotic treatments for strep throat last about 10 days. Kids usually feel better a day or two after they start them. Once they’ve been on these drugs for about 24 hours, they’re no longer contagious and can go back to school.

Even after kids start to feel better, they should finish all their pills. You can leave some bacteria alive if you stop too soon. If strep is not fully treated, it might lead to complications such as:

When people stop taking antibiotics too soon, the bacteria that cause strep can become resistant to the medication. That means another case of strep would be much harder to control.

Strep Throat Home Care

Until the antibiotics start to work, these home treatments can help you or your child feel better:

• Over-the-counter pain relievers: Take acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) to bring down a fever and ease the sore throat. Don’t give aspirin to children and teens. It can cause a rare but serious condition called Reye’s syndrome.
• Rest: Stay home from school or work. You need extra rest to help your body fight off the infection.
• Gargling: Rinse with a mixture of a quarter-teaspoon of salt and 8 ounces of warm water to relieve a scratchy throat.
• Lozenges and hard candy: Older kids can suck on these to feel better. Avoid giving small pieces of candy to children 4 and younger.
• Lots of fluids: Do this especially if you have a fever. Water and warm liquids such as soup or tea soothe the throat and keep you hydrated. If cold feels better on your throat, suck on a frozen pop or ice chips. Avoid orange juice, lemonade, and other drinks that are high in acid. These can burn your throat.
• Soft foods: Examples include yogurt, applesauce, or frozen yogurt. They’re easier to swallow.
• Cool-mist humidifier or saline nasal spray: Moisture can help make your throat feel better.

Steer clear of anything that might bother your throat, like cigarette smoke, paint fumes, or cleaning products.

Rheumatic Fever: All You Need to Know

How You Get Rheumatic Fever

Rheumatic fever may develop after strep throat or scarlet fever infections that are not treated properly. Bacteria called group A Streptococcus or group A strep cause strep throat and scarlet fever. It usually takes about 1 to 5 weeks after strep throat or scarlet fever for rheumatic fever to develop. Rheumatic fever is thought to be caused by a response of the body’s defense system — the immune system. The immune system responds to the earlier strep throat or scarlet fever infection and causes a generalized inflammatory response.

Rheumatic Fever Is Not Contagious

People cannot catch rheumatic fever from someone else because it is an immune response and not an infection. However, people with strep throat or scarlet fever can spread group A strep to others, primarily through respiratory droplets.

Fever and Painful, Tender Joints Are Common Signs and Symptoms

Symptoms of rheumatic fever can include:

• Fever
• Painful, tender joints (arthritis), most commonly in the knees, ankles, elbows, and wrists
• Symptoms of congestive heart failure, including chest pain, shortness of breath, fast heartbeat
• Fatigue
• Jerky, uncontrollable body movements (called “chorea”)
• Painless lumps (nodules) under the skin near joints (this is a rare symptom)
• Rash that appears as pink rings with a clear center (this is a rare symptom)

In addition, someone with rheumatic fever can have:

• A new heart murmur
• An enlarged heart
• Fluid around the heart

Children Most Often Affected

Although anyone can get rheumatic fever, it is more common in school-age children (5 through 15 years old). Rheumatic fever is very rare in children younger than three years old and adults.

Infectious illnesses, including group A strep, tend to spread wherever large groups of people gather together. Crowded conditions can increase the risk of getting strep throat or scarlet fever, and thus rheumatic fever. These settings include:

• Schools
• Daycare centers
• Military training facilities

Someone who had rheumatic fever in the past is more likely to get rheumatic fever again if they get strep throat or scarlet fever again.

Doctors look to see how well the heart is working when diagnosing rheumatic fever.

Many Tests, Considerations Help Doctors Diagnose Rheumatic Fever

There is no single test used to diagnose rheumatic fever. Instead, doctors can look for signs of illness, check the patient’s medical history, and use many tests, including:

• A throat swab to look for a group A strep infection
• A blood test to look for antibodies that would show if the patient recently had a group A strep infection
• A test of how well the heart is working (electrocardiogram or EKG)
• A test that creates a movie of the heart muscle working (echocardiography or echo)

Treatment Focuses on Managing Inflammation, Symptoms

Doctors treat symptoms of rheumatic fever with medicines like aspirin to reduce fever, pain, and general inflammation. In addition, all patients with rheumatic fever should get antibiotics that treat group A strep infections. People who develop rheumatic heart disease with symptoms of heart failure may require medicines to help manage this as well.

Serious Complications Include Long-term Heart Damage

If rheumatic fever is not treated promptly, long-term heart damage (called rheumatic heart disease) may occur. Rheumatic heart disease weakens the valves between the chambers of the heart. Severe rheumatic heart disease can require heart surgery and result in death.

Protect Yourself and Others

Having a group A strep infection does not protect someone from getting infected again in the future. People can also get rheumatic fever more than once. However, there are things people can do to protect themselves and others.

Good Hygiene Helps Prevent Group A Strep Infections

The best way to keep from getting or spreading group A strep infections such as strep throat or scarlet fever is to wash your hands often, especially after coughing or sneezing and before preparing foods or eating.

Antibiotics Are Key to Treatment and Prevention

The main ways to prevent rheumatic fever are to

• Treat group A strep infections like strep throat and scarlet fever with antibiotics
• Prevent group A strep infections in the first place
• Use preventive antibiotics for people who had rheumatic fever in the past

Preventive antibiotics help protect people who had rheumatic fever from getting it again. Doctors also call this prophylaxis (pro-fuh-LAK-sis) or “secondary prevention.” People may need antibiotic prophylaxis over a period of many years (often until 21 years old). Prophylaxis can include daily antibiotics by mouth or a shot into the muscle every few weeks.

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Strep Throat | Michigan Medicine

Topic Overview

What is strep throat?

Strep throat is a bacterial infection in the throat and the tonsils. The throat gets irritated and inflamed, causing a sudden, severe sore throat.

What causes strep throat?

Strep throat is caused by streptococcal (strep) bacteria. There are many different types of strep bacteria. Some cause more serious illness than others.

Although some people are quick to think that any painful sore throat is strep, sore throats are usually caused by a viral infection and not strep bacteria. A sore throat caused by a virus can be just as painful as strep throat. But if you have cold symptoms such as coughing, sneezing, or a runny or stuffy nose, you probably do not have strep throat.

What are the symptoms?

The most common symptoms of strep throat are:

• A sudden, severe sore throat.
• Pain when you swallow.
• Fever over101°F (38.3°C).
• Swollen tonsils and lymph nodes.
• White or yellow spots on the back of a bright red throat.

You may also have a headache and belly pain. Less common symptoms are a red skin rash, vomiting, not feeling hungry, and body aches.

Strep throat can be passed from person to person. When a person who has strep throat breathes, coughs, or sneezes, tiny droplets with the strep bacteria go into the air. These droplets can be breathed in by other people. If you come into contact with strep, it will take 2 to 5 days before you start to have symptoms.

How is strep throat diagnosed?

Your doctor will do a physical exam, ask you about your symptoms and past health, and do a lab test such as a throat culture or rapid strep test.

A rapid test gives a result within about 10 minutes. But sometimes the test doesn’t show strep even when it is present. A culture takes one or two days but is better at finding all cases of strep.

If the rapid strep test is positive and says that you do have strep, there’s no need to do the throat culture.

How is it treated?

Doctors usually treat strep throat with antibiotics. Antibiotics shorten the time you are able to spread the disease to others (are contagious) and lower the risk of spreading the infection to other parts of your body. Antibiotics also may help you feel better faster.

You are contagious while you still have symptoms. Most people stop being contagious 24 hours after they start antibiotics. If you don’t take antibiotics, you may be contagious for 2 to 3 weeks, even if your symptoms go away.

Your doctor may also advise you to take an over-the-counter medicine like acetaminophen (such as Tylenol) or ibuprofen (such as Advil or Motrin) to help with pain and lower your fever. Be safe with medicines. Read and follow all instructions on the label. Do not give aspirin to anyone younger than 20. It has been linked to Reye syndrome, a serious illness.

How do you prevent strep throat?

To avoid getting strep throat, it is a good idea to avoid contact with anyone who has a strep infection. If you are around someone who has strep, wash your hands often. Don’t drink from the same glass or use the same eating utensils. And don’t share toothbrushes.

Bacteria can live for a short time on doorknobs, water faucets, and other objects. It’s a good idea to wash your hands regularly.

If you have a strep infection, there are things you can do to avoid spreading it to others. Use tissues you can throw away instead of handkerchiefs, wash your hands often, and do not sneeze or cough on others. Antibiotics can shorten the time that you are contagious. It is a good idea to stay home from work or school until 24 hours after you have started antibiotics.

Cause

Strep throat is caused by streptococcal (strep) bacteria, most often by group A beta-hemolytic streptococcus (GABS). Other types of strep that can sometimes infect the throat are groups C and G strep bacteria.

A strep infection causes the throat (pharynx) and the tonsils or adenoids to become irritated, inflamed, and painful.

Sore throats are most commonly caused by viral infections or other irritants such as smoke, allergies, dry air, or a throat injury, and not by a strep infection.

How the strep infection is spread

Strep throat can be passed from person to person. When a person infected with strep throat breathes, coughs, or sneezes, tiny droplets containing the strep bacteria are released into the air and are breathed in by other people.

Symptoms

Common symptoms of strep throat in children and adults include:

• Severe and sudden sore throat without coughing, sneezing, or other cold symptoms.
• Pain or difficulty with swallowing.
• Fever over 101°F (38.3°C). Lower fevers may point to a viral infection and not strep.
• Swollen lymph nodes in the neck.
• White or yellow spots or coating on the throat and tonsils.
• Bright red throat or dark red spots on the roof of the mouth at the back near the throat.
• Swollen tonsils, although this symptom may also be caused by a viral infection.

In teens, mononucleosis can cause a severe sore throat that looks like and has symptoms similar to those of strep throat. For more information, see the topic Mononucleosis (Mono).

It is easy to tell when you have a sore throat or a cold. It is harder to know when you have strep throat. Typically, sore throats are caused by a viral infection and not strep bacteria. Strep throat usually does not occur with cold symptoms such as coughing, sneezing, or a runny or stuffy nose. The more cold symptoms you have, the less likely it is that your sore throat is a strep infection.

In some cases of strep infection, a skin rash develops and spreads over the neck and chest and eventually over the whole body. The rash feels rough like sandpaper. This condition is called scarlet fever. Scarlet fever is treated with antibiotics. This usually leads to a quick recovery. Scarlet fever is not dangerous if treated.

What Happens

Symptoms of strep throat usually begin within 2 to 5 days after you come in contact with someone who has a strep infection. Strep throat usually goes away in 3 to 7 days with or without antibiotic treatment. In contrast, if allergies or irritants are the cause of your sore throat, it will usually last longer unless the cause is eliminated.

If strep throat isn’t treated with antibiotics, you will continue to be contagious for 2 to 3 weeks even if your symptoms go away. You are much less contagious within 24 hours after you start antibiotics and are less likely to develop complications of the strep infection.

Complications of strep throat

Complications of strep throat are rare but can occur, especially if your throat infection isn’t properly treated with antibiotics. Complications can occur when the strep infection spreads to other parts of the body and causes other infections, such as an ear or sinus infection or an abscess near the tonsils (peritonsillar abscess). Complications can also result in your immune system attacking itself and causing serious conditions such as rheumatic fever.

Treating strep throat can greatly reduce your risk for rheumatic fever and its complications. It is not clear whether treating the strep infection with antibiotics reduces your risk for inflammation of the kidneys (acute glomerulonephritis).

What Increases Your Risk

Your risk of getting strep throat increases if you come in close contact with others, especially children, who have a strep infection.

The size of a child’s tonsils isn’t a risk factor for throat infections. Children or adults who have had their tonsils removed can still get strep throat.

When should you call your doctor?

Call your doctor today if you have:

Call a doctor if the following symptoms develop 1 to 2 weeks or longer after a strep throat infection. These symptoms may indicate rheumatic fever.

• Weakness
• Shortness of breath
• Joint pain
• Raised red rash or lumps under the skin
• Uncontrolled, jerking movements of the arms or legs

Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve after 2 days of treatment with an antibiotic.

Watchful waiting

Watchful waiting is appropriate if your sore throat occurs with symptoms like those of a cold, such as sneezing, coughing, and a runny or stuffy nose. In general, the more of these symptoms you have, the less likely it is that your sore throat is caused by a strep infection. You can try home treatment if your sore throat is not severe and you have other symptoms of a cold.

Who to see

The following health professionals can evaluate a sore throat, do quick tests or throat cultures, and prescribe antibiotic treatment if needed:

If surgery to remove chronically enlarged or infected tonsils or adenoids is suggested, you may be referred to an otolaryngologist.

Exams and Tests

Strep throat is diagnosed from your medical history, a physical exam of your throat, and a lab test, such as a throat culture. Sometimes a rapid strep test is used to check for strep. Your doctor may confirm the results of the rapid strep test with a throat culture.

Current treatment guidelines recommend that your doctor confirm strep throat with a lab test, such as a throat culture, and not diagnose strep throat just from your symptoms. But your doctor may begin treatment for strep throat before the result of your throat culture is back if you have three or four of the following symptoms:

• A recent fever of 101°F (38.3°C) or higher
• White or yellow spots or coating on the throat or tonsils
• Swollen or tender lymph nodes on the neck
• Absence of signs of a cold or upper respiratory infection, such as coughing or sneezing

One or both of the following tests are used to confirm that you have strep throat.

• Rapid strep test analyzes the bacteria in your throat to see if strep is the cause of your sore throat. The doctor uses a cotton swab to gather cells from the back of your throat for testing.
• Throat culture is a test to find germs (such as strep bacteria) that can cause an infection. A sample of cells from the back of your throat is added to a substance that promotes the growth of bacteria. If no bacteria grow, the culture is negative. If strep bacteria grow, the culture is positive.

If symptoms of strep throat are present, it is important to be tested for strep infection. Prompt treatment will reduce the spread of strep throat and may reduce the risk of complications, such as the infection spreading to other parts of your body causing ear or sinus infections or an abscess behind or around your tonsils (peritonsillar abscess).

If you need to be tested for strep throat, the choice between a rapid strep test and a throat culture may not be clear. It may help to discuss with your doctor the advantages and disadvantages of each test. For instance, results from a rapid strep test are available within 10 to 15 minutes, and results from a throat culture may take 1 to 2 days. A throat culture is more accurate.

• A negative rapid strep test result can mean there are no strep bacteria present. But the rapid strep test can give negative results even when strep bacteria are present (false-negative test results). If the rapid strep test result is negative but strep throat is still suspected, your doctor may order a throat culture to verify the results.
• If the rapid strep test result is positive, a throat culture isn’t needed. Antibiotic treatment can be started right away. Antibiotics may not make you well faster. But they shorten the time you are able to spread the disease to others. Antibiotics also lower the risk of spreading the infection to other parts of your body.

Testing is not needed:

• After antibiotic treatment, unless you still have symptoms. Testing may be done if symptoms return or you have had rheumatic fever and are at risk for it coming back.
• For a person who was exposed to strep but has no symptoms. For instance, family members of a person who has strep throat do not need to be tested unless they start to have symptoms.

It is possible for a person to carry the strep bacteria and not have any symptoms. If a number of infections occur in the same family, or if there have been severe complications such as rheumatic fever or toxic shock syndrome, it may be helpful to test family members to learn whether they are carriers of strep infection. But it is unusual for a person to catch strep throat from a carrier.

Treatment Overview

Antibiotics such as amoxicillin, cephalexin, or penicillin are used to treat strep throat. Antibiotics work only against bacterial infections such as strep throat. They will not help sore throats caused by allergies or viral infections such as colds.

Antibiotics are commonly used to:

• Kill the bacteria and shorten the time you are contagious. You are typically no longer contagious 24 hours after you start antibiotics.
• Prevent rare complications. Although uncommon, strep bacteria can spread to other parts of your body, causing ear or sinus infections or an abscess behind or around the tonsils (peritonsillar abscess). Antibiotics may also prevent the infection from triggering your immune system to attack itself and cause serious conditions such as rheumatic fever.
• Relieve discomfort and speed healing to some degree.

Antibiotic treatment can begin immediately if a strep infection is confirmed by a rapid strep test. But there is no harm in waiting for the results of a throat culture to confirm strep throat before starting antibiotic treatment. In fact, it is better to wait until strep throat has been confirmed so that antibiotics are not used unnecessarily. Overuse of antibiotics can make them ineffective.

Although waiting to treat strep throat may prolong the time you have the illness, delaying treatment for a few days doesn’t increase the risk of rheumatic fever or other complications.

Your doctor also may recommend nonprescription medicines such as acetaminophen or anesthetic throat sprays to help relieve the pain and discomfort caused by strep throat. Acetaminophen will also reduce fever. Be safe with medicines. Read and follow all instructions on the label.

For more information, see:

Prevention

To avoid getting strep throat, it is a good idea to avoid contact with anyone who has a strep infection.

Wash your hands often when you are around people with colds or viral or bacterial illnesses. Do not share toothbrushes or eating and drinking utensils.

• Bacteria are almost always transmitted by contact with tiny droplets from an infected person. Strep throat is passed from one person to another by contact with the tiny droplets of an infected person’s cough, sneeze, or breath.
• Bacteria can also live for a short time on doorknobs, water faucets, and other objects. If you touch an infected object and then touch your eyes, nose, or mouth, you can become infected with the bacteria or virus.
• Bacteria can also be carried on food.

Keep up your body’s resistance to infection with a good diet, plenty of sleep, and regular exercise. Managing stress can also strengthen your body’s ability to fight off illness, such as strep throat.

Humidify your home during the dry winter months or year-round if you live in a dry climate. Moisture in the air (humidity) helps keep your mucous membranes moist and more resistant to bacteria. You can use a humidifier in the bedroom while you sleep. But use care if a person in the home has asthma or allergies, because mold or other particles that collect in the humidifier can make these conditions worse. Clean humidifiers on a regular basis.

Stop smoking, and avoid breathing others’ smoke. Smoke irritates the throat tissues and may make you more likely to get infection.

Home Treatment

Your doctor may have prescribed an antibiotic for strep throat. Take all of the antibiotic exactly as prescribed. This will help prevent the infection from coming back and will prevent complications of infection that could occur if you do not take the medicine as prescribed.

There are many ways that you can make yourself feel better while you are waiting for the strep infection to go away.

• Drink plenty of fluids and increase humidity (moisture in the air) in your home to help keep your throat moist. Herbal teas formulated for colds may help relieve symptoms.
• Get plenty of rest. Stay home the first day of antibiotic treatment. You are still contagious and might pass the infection to others. Rest in bed if you feel very sick. Bed rest is not required if you feel fine.
• Take nonprescription medicines to relieve a painful sore throat and reduce fever. Be safe with medicines. Read and follow all instructions on the label.
• Try an over-the-counter anesthetic throat spray or throat lozenges, which may help relieve throat pain. Do not give lozenges to children younger than age 4. If your child is younger than age 2, ask your doctor if you can give your child numbing medicines.

For more information on nonprescription medicines and other ways to relieve sore throat symptoms, see the topic Strep Throat: Home Treatment.

For the first 24 hours after you start taking an antibiotic, you are still contagious. You can avoid passing the strep throat infection to others and reinfecting yourself by:

• Avoiding sneezing or coughing on others.
• Washing your hands often.
• Using tissues you can throw away, not handkerchiefs.
• Using a new toothbrush as soon as you feel sick. Replace it again when you are well. You can also clean your toothbrush well before using it again. Bacteria can collect on the bristles and reinfect you.

Medications

Antibiotics are the treatment of choice for a confirmed strep throat infection.

• Antibiotics will reduce the time you are contagious. You are usually not contagious 24 hours after starting antibiotics.
• Antibiotic treatment for strep throat can also help prevent some of the rare complications related either to the strep infection itself or to the body’s immune response to the infection. Complications of strep throat are rare but can occur, especially if strep throat is not properly treated.
• Antibiotics may shorten the time you are sick by about one day.

When antibiotics may be used

Antibiotics may be used in the following situations:

• You have had a positive rapid strep test or positive throat culture.
• You have three or more of the following signs or symptoms:
  • A recent fever
  • White or yellow spots or coating on the throat or tonsils
  • Swollen or tender lymph nodes on the neck
  • Absence of signs of a cold or other upper respiratory illness, such as coughing or sneezing
• You have recently had rheumatic fever and have been exposed to strep. Preventive antibiotics may be given in some cases.
• Several family members are having repeated strep infections as confirmed by positive throat cultures.

It is possible for you to carry the strep bacteria in the throat and not have any symptoms. Antibiotics for the carrier state are usually not needed unless you have a history of rheumatic fever or frequent infections or infections are occurring frequently in the family.

For more information, see:

Medicine choices

Antibiotics such as amoxicillin, cephalexin, or penicillin are used to treat strep throat infection.

What to think about

Immediate treatment with an antibiotic after a positive rapid strep test may not make you well faster. But it will shorten the time you are able to spread the disease to others. Antibiotics also lower the risk of the infection spreading to other parts of your body. But there is no harm in delaying medicine treatment 1 to 2 days to wait for the results of a throat culture. Antibiotics will prevent rheumatic fever even if it is started up to 9 days after symptoms begin.

Surgery

If strep throat continues to recur, you and your doctor may decide that you need surgery to remove the tonsils (tonsillectomy). Surgery is considered when you:

• Have recurring episodes of strep throat or tonsillitis in a single year despite antibiotic treatment.
• Have abscesses around the tonsils that do not respond to drainage, or if an abscess is present in addition to other signs that you may need tonsillectomy.
• Have persistent bad odor or taste in the mouth, which is caused by tonsillitis that does not respond to antibiotics.
• Need a biopsy to evaluate a suspected tumor of the tonsil.

Large tonsils are not an indication for tonsillectomy unless they are causing one of the above problems or they are blocking the upper airway, which can cause sleep apnea or problems with eating.

Surgery choices

Tonsillectomy may be done in some cases of strep throat.

An abscess around the tonsils (peritonsillar abscess) may be treated with a simple procedure in which a small incision is made to drain the abscess, although removing the tonsils is appropriate in some of these cases.

What to think about

Tonsillectomy is no longer routine for children who have frequent sore throats. Surgery has been shown to reduce the number of throat infections for 2 years. But over time many children who did not have surgery also had fewer throat infections. ^{footnote 1}

When you are trying to decide whether to have your or your child’s tonsils removed, consider:

• How much time you or your child is missing from work or school because of throat infections.
• How much stress and inconvenience the illness places on the family.

The risks of surgery must also be weighed against the risks of leaving the tonsils in. In some cases of persistent strep throat infections, especially if there are other complications, surgery may be the best choice.

References

Citations

1. Baugh RF, et al. (2011). Clinical practice guideline: Tonsillectomy in children. Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery, 144(IS): S1–S30.

Credits

Current as of:
December 2, 2020

Author: Healthwise Staff
Medical Review:
Kathleen Romito MD – Family Medicine
E. Gregory Thompson MD – Internal Medicine
Adam Husney MD – Family Medicine
Donald R. Mintz MD – Otolaryngology

Home Remedies for Strep Throat Symptoms

The scratchy, burning pain of a sore throat can make life miserable. From sipping water to answering the phone, everyday tasks are suddenly painful challenges.

While it’s common to think you may have strep throat, the bacterial infection can only be diagnosed by a throat swab test.

If you test positive for strep, it’s important to take any prescribed medications, including antibiotics, as not doing so can lead to serious health complications such as rheumatic fever or heart murmurs.

It usually takes only a day or two after starting antibiotics to feel better, but in the meantime, there are some things you can do to help ease the symptoms, including some quick and easy home remedies for strep throat.

What Causes Strep Throat

Strep throat, also known as streptococcal pharyngitis, is caused by bacteria called group Astreptococcus, or Streptococcus pyogenes, which can seed the nose and throat.

You can get the infection from someone who is sick with strep, as it spreads through close contact with saliva.

Symptoms, which include fever, sore throat, red tonsils, and enlarged lymph nodes in the neck, typically begin one to three days after exposure and last seven to 10 days.

How to Test for Strep Throat at Home

The only way to know definitively if you have strep throat is through a rapid strep test administered by your doctor or at your nearest GoHealth Urgent Care. And while home strep tests are available, they aren’t 100 percent accurate and can produce false negative results.

You can examine your throat for signs of infection by looking in the mirror and saying, “Ahhh.” If you see white dots or patches in the back of your throat, or your tonsils are red and swollen, you may have strep throat and should see your doctor or go to your local GoHealth Urgent Care.

Home Remedies for Strep Throat

Sore throat is not the same as strep throat, as strep is a bacterial infection, yet many sore throat remedies can also help ease the symptoms of strep throat.

In addition to getting plenty of rest and drinking lots of water, you can try the following home remedies, which are aimed at killing the bacteria that causes strep throat. Keep in mind, however, the only way to cure strep throat is with antibiotics.

Supplements

• Elderberry has antibacterial and antiviral effects and has shown to protect against the risk of upper respiratory disorders and virus- and bacteria-induced respiratory infections on flights. Elderberry is available as a tea, and in capsule, powder, or liquid form.
• Echinacea is best known for its ability to prevent the common cold, but research suggests it may also stop the spread of bacterial conditions like strep throat. Echinacea’s anti-inflammatory properties can also help relieve pain related to strep throat. Take echinacea in liquid form, as a tea, or in capsule form as soon as symptoms appear.
• Vitamin C can boost your immune system as well as kill infections already in your body. If you have strep throat, boost your vitamin C consumption by taking a supplement and eating foods rich in vitamin C like oranges, kale, strawberries, grapefruit, and kiwi.
• Vitamin D deficiency has been linked to respiratory infections, and research has shown it plays an important role in the immune system.

Foods

• Raw honey raises antioxidant levels in the body, which helps boost the immune system, and its consistency has long been used to ease sore throats. Studies have found that medical-grade honey can fight some of the bacteria that cause infections.
• Bone broth can keep you hydrated when a sore throat makes it difficult to swallow other foods. It also provides minerals that boost the immune system and help reduce swelling and pain. Drinking warm bone broth made from protein powder throughout the day can help ease the symptoms of strep throat.
• Herbal tea for strep throat can help ease pain and treat inflammation. Chamomile tea has antioxidants that help reduce pain, congestion, swelling, and redness, while dandelion tea may help fight infection while boosting your immune system.
• Apple cider vinegar has powerful healing compounds such as acetic acid, which can kill harmful bacteria while promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria.
• Warm comforting drinks also help soothe symptoms while being gentle on sore throats.

Essential Oils

• Peppermint oil can reduce swelling in the throat, while its naturally occurring menthol provides a cooling and calming sensation. Mix 1 to 2 drops of peppermint oil in a glass of water and drink it or apply 1 to 2 drops to the skin around your throat, chest, and temples.
• Lemon oil has antibacterial properties and has been shown to limit the growth of antibiotic-resistant bacterial strains. Add 1 to 2 drops to a glass of water or herbal tea.
• Thyme oil is a common home remedy for strep throat symptoms.  Research has shown it’s effective in killing bacteria taken from patients with oral and respiratory infections. Add 1 to 2 drops of thyme oil to a glass of water and gargle or add thyme oil to your bath for relief of body aches.  

Other Things to Try

• Gargling with Himalayan salt can soothe a sore throat, reduce painful swelling, and kill bacteria present in your mouth. The salt’s antibacterial properties are also known to improve respiratory conditions. Mix 1/4 teaspoon (1.42 grams) of table salt in 8 ounces (237 milliliters) of warm water. Be sure to spit out the liquid after gargling.
• Oil pulling has been shown to reduce the presence of strep bacteria and other toxin in the mouth. Swish 1 to 2 tablespoons of coconut oil in your mouth for at least 10 minutes, then spit it out, rinse your mouth, and brush your teeth.

Will Strep Throat Go Away on Its Own?

Strep throat typically goes away in three to seven days with or without antibiotic treatment. However, if you don’t take antibiotics, you can remain contagious for two to three weeks and are at a higher risk for complications, such as rheumatic fever.

What’s more, complications resulting from the bacterial infection can lead to increased susceptibility to other viral infections like influenza which can be fatal.

If you have been diagnosed with strep throat, you can help prevent repeat infections by changing your and your families’ toothbrushes and thoroughly disinfecting all surfaces that may have been in contact with the strep virus.

If these at-home remedies don’t help alleviate your sore throat symptoms after 48 hours, you can book an appointment online with us; the widget below will help you find the GoHealth Urgent Care center nearest you.

See our prices on co-pays and same-day visits, with and without insurance.

GoHealth Urgent Care partners with these regional healthcare providers:

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Strep Throat: Symptoms and Treatment

Strep throat (also known as pharyngitis or streptococcal pharyngitis) is an infection caused by Streptococcus pyogenes, or Group A Streptococcus (GAS).

Streptococcal pharyngitis is highly contagious and can spread by nasal secretions and saliva. Strep throat most often afflicts children younger than 16, and is most common in the United States in the winter and spring, according to the Mayo Clinic and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Causes and complications

You can catch strep throat when exposed to infected droplets of spit — i.e. from the coughs and sneezes of those infected. Strep throat itself is not particularly dangerous, but the infection can worsen, especially if it goes untreated. If strep throat does not improve within two days of beginning treatment, it could indicate the presence of another infection, the spread of the strep bacteria to other areas outside the throat or an inflammatory reaction. GAS may infect the tonsils and sinuses if left untreated. Also, the middle ear, skin and blood can become infected.

Symptoms

Symptoms of strep throat typically appear several days after exposure to the bacteria. The most common symptom is a sore throat. Individuals may also have trouble swallowing, and the tonsils and lymph nodes may feel swollen. Some individuals may experience fever, stomach ache or vomiting, fatigue or headache. A white rash may develop on the tonsils, or the throat may have stringy puss, according to the Mayo Clinic.

Diagnosis & tests

To diagnose strep throat, a physician will perform a physical exam and a throat swab.

During the physical, a doctor examines the throat and mouth for signs of infection including redness and swelling. Also, the doctor will check for a fever and feel the lymph nodes, which will be enlarged in the presence of infection.

Many types of bacteria and, more frequently, viruses can cause a sore throat, so to determine the culprit, doctors will perform a throat swab, rubbing a swab over the back of the throat and tonsils. The sample can then be run through what’s called the rapid antigen test, which takes just minutes and can reveal whether molecules called antigens related to the GAS bacteria show up; doctors can also culture the bacteria in the lab to see if the bacteria pop up — a test that can take up to two days, according to the Mayo Clinic.

Although physicians often suspect that strep bacteria are the cause of a sore throat, researchers at the University of Alabama at Birmingham found that another bacterium, Fusobacterium necrophorum, should also be on doctors’ short lists. In a study published in the December 2009 issue of the journal Annals of Internal Medicine, the researchers noted that the bacteria might be the culprit of up to 10 percent of sore throat cases in adolescents and early 20-somethings.

Treatment & medication

It is possible for strep throat to clear up without treatment; however, the risk of complications could increase in some individuals. Moreover, the infection is contagious until treated.

Doctors typically prescribe penicillin or amoxicillin to treat strep throat. For individuals with a penicillin allergy, newer generations of antibiotics may be used. These include cephalexin, erythromycin and azithromycin. All of these antibiotics kill strep bacteria, alleviate symptoms and decrease the amount of time an individual is sick. Physicians may also recommend an over-the-counter pain and fever reducer, the Mayo Clinic noted.

Within 24 hours of beginning treatment, an individual is usually no longer contagious and he or she will begin to feel better, according to the Mayo Clinic. Still, all medication should be taken for the duration prescribed to prevent complications.

In addition to medication, individuals should rest from work and school, drink plenty of water and avoid chemicals and environments that may further irritate the throat. Also, gargling warm salt water, using a humidifier and eating soft and cold foods can soothe the throat.

Some people are more susceptible to getting strep throat repeatedly. Often, doctors will prescribe tonsil removal to prevent further infections.

Other types of strep infections

GAS can also cause an infection called scarlet fever. The infection is most common in children between the ages of 5 and 15 and generally begins with a fever and sore throat, according to the CDC. Scarlet fever is typically a mild illness that may resolve on its own but treatment with antibiotics can help symptoms disappear sooner.

Group B Streptococcus (GBS) is another type of strep bacteria which can cause blood infections, pneumonia and meningitis in newborns, according to the NIH. Some women carry this type of bacteria in their intestines and vagina, but it is not passed through sexual contact. However, mothers can pass the bacteria to a newborn during birth, according to the U.S. National Library of Medicine. Most babies who come in contact will not become sick, but the few babies who do become sick can have severe problems, including infections in the blood (sepsis), the lungs (pneumonia) or the brain (meningitis). As such, doctors screen all expecting mothers for the bacteria; those who test positive for the bacteria should receive antibiotics during labor.

According to the CDC, a pregnant woman who tests positive for GBS bacteria and received antibiotics during pregnancy has a 1 in 4,000 change that her baby will develop GBS disease, versus a 1 in 200 chance if she didn’t receive antibiotics.

In adults, Group B strep can cause urinary tract infections, blood infections, skin infections, pneumonia and, rarely, meningitis, according to the CDC.

Strep bacteria can also cause inflammation of the kidneys, called post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis. According to the U.S. National Library of Medicine, the condition can occur one to two weeks after a strep throat infection.

Additional resources:

This article is for informational purposes only and is not meant to offer medical advice. This article was updated on Oct. 15, 2018 by Live Science Managing Editor, Jeanna Bryner.

Sore throat vs. Strep throat

Which one do you have, and what should you do about it?

By Audra Kolesar
Winnipeg Regional Health Authority
Published Friday, March 21, 2014

What is a sore throat?

Sore throat is a common symptom that ranges in severity from just a sense of scratchiness to severe pain. Pharyngitis is the medical term for sore throat.

How does a sore throat occur?

Sore throat is caused by inflammation of the throat (pharynx). The pharynx is the area behind the tonsils. A sore throat may be the first symptom of a mild illness, such as a cold or the flu, or of more severe illnesses, such as mononucleosis, strep throat or scarlet fever.

A sore throat that comes on suddenly is called acute pharyngitis. It can be caused by bacteria or viruses. A sore throat that lasts for a long time is called chronic pharyngitis. It occurs when a respiratory, sinus, or mouth infection spreads to the throat.

Sore throats can also be caused by:

• Hay fever
• Cigarette smoking or second-hand smoke
• Breathing heavily polluted air or chemical fumes
• Swallowing sharp foods that hurt the lining of the throat, such as a tortilla chip
• Dry air
• Heartburn (gastric reflux)

What are the symptoms of a sore throat?

Symptoms may include:

• A raw feeling in the throat that makes breathing, swallowing and speaking painful
• Redness of the throat
• Fever
• Hoarseness
• Pus in your throat
• Tender, swollen glands in your neck
• Earache (you may feel pain in your ears even though the problem is in your throat).

How is a sore throat diagnosed?

Your health-care provider will ask about your symptoms and examine your throat. Your provider also will examine you for signs of other illness, such as sinus, chest, or ear infections. Just by looking at your throat, it is often hard for your health-care provider to decide whether a virus or bacteria is causing your sore throat. Your provider may swab your throat to test for strep infection. Some providers have a rapid strep test they can do in the office and get results in a few minutes.

How is a sore throat treated?

Usually, no specific medical treatment is needed if a virus is causing the sore throat. The throat most often gets better on its own within five to seven days. Antibiotic medicine does not cure viral pharyngitis. For acute pharyngitis caused by bacteria, your health-care provider may prescribe an antibiotic. For chronic pharyngitis, your provider will look for other causes.

How long will the effects of a sore throat last?

Viral pharyngitis often goes away in five to seven days. If you have bacterial pharyngitis, you will feel better after you have taken antibiotics for two to three days. You must take your antibiotic even when you are feeling better. If you don’t take all of it, your sore throat could come back.

What is the difference between a sore throat and strep throat?

Strep throat is a more serious type of sore throat. It is caused by bacteria called Streptococci. There are different types of streptococci. The type that causes serious sore throats and should be treated with antibiotics is called group A strep.

How does strep throat occur?

Strep and viral infections are very contagious. They are usually passed directly from person to person. Strep throat is common in school-age children. Children under two-years-old and adults not exposed to children are much less likely to get strep throat. It is most common from November through April, but it can happen any time of year.

What are the symptoms of strep throat?

A person with strep throat may exhibit some of the same symptoms as someone with a non-strep sore throat. Other symptoms of a strep infection may include:

• Chills
• Headaches
• Fatigue
• Swollen, tender lymph nodes (glands) in the neck
• Loss of appetite.

How is strep throat diagnosed?

Your health-care provider will ask about your symptoms and examine your throat. Usually you will have a strep test. Your provider will rub a cotton swab against a tonsil in the back of your throat to get a sample of bacteria. The sample will be tested in the lab. The results will be available in a few minutes if the rapid antibody test is done, or in one to two days if the overnight culture test is used.

How is strep throat treated?

If your health-care provider suspects you have strep, he or she may prescribe an antibiotic before you have all the results from the lab tests. This medicine may be taken as pills or given as a shot. It is very important to take all of the prescribed medicine, even after the symptoms have gone away, to prevent the infection from coming back. Strep needs to be treated so you can prevent the serious problems it might cause, such as heart and kidney disease.

How long will the effects of strep throat last?

The symptoms of strep throat may go away as soon as 24 hours after you start treatment. The symptoms rarely last longer than five days.

Not getting treatment for strep throat or not taking all the medicine prescribed can lead to rheumatic fever. Rheumatic fever can damage the heart valves and affect your joints, kidneys and brain.

How can I take care of myself?

Follow the full treatment prescribed by your health-care provider.

For a sore throat:

• Make sure you have enough fluids. Drink clear soup, cold drinks, and other clear, nutritious liquids. If eating hurts your throat, don’t force yourself to eat solid food. When you are able to eat more foods, choose healthy food to give you strength and to help fight the infection.
• Do not smoke. Do not breathe second-hand smoke.
• Gargle with salt water. (You can make a saltwater solution by adding a half teaspoon of salt to eight ounces of warm water.)
• Suck on lozenges or hard candy.
• Don’t talk a lot. Rest your voice.
• Use a cool mist humidifier or vaporizer to add moisture to the air.
• Put warm compresses on your neck.

If you have a fever, rest and limit your activities until the fever is gone. You can take acetaminophen, or ibuprofen, to reduce your fever and to relieve pain. Anyone under age 18 with a fever should not take aspirin because it increases the risk of Reye’s syndrome.

When should I see a health-care provider?

If you have a sore throat and are unable to swallow liquids, you need to be seen as soon as possible. If you have been exposed to someone with strep throat who has not completed their antibiotics and is considered contagious, and now have symptoms, you should see a provider within two days. If you have a sore throat and have not been exposed to strep throat, see your provider if your symptoms have not improved after seven days of home care.

How can I help prevent spreading strep throat or a viral throat infection?

The following suggestions may help you prevent the spread of your strep infection to others:

• Avoid close contact with other people until you have been taking the antibiotic for 24 hours so they will not be exposed to the strep bacteria.
• Use tissues when you cough and dispose of them carefully.
• Hand washing is the best method of prevention. Wash your hands before you touch food, dishes, glasses, silverware, napkins, etc.
• Wash your hands after you cough.
• Be careful not to let your nose or mouth touch public telephones or drinking fountains.
• Use paper cups and paper towels in bathrooms instead of shared drinking cups and hand towels.
• Do not share food and eating utensils with others.

Audra Kolesar is a registered nurse and manager with Health Links – Info Santé, the Winnipeg Health Region’s telephone health information service.

Streptococcal infection – group A

Group A streptococcal (GAS) infection is caused by bacteria known as Group A (beta-haemolytic) Streptococcus, the most common type of which is Streptococcus pyogenes.

GAS is a common infection that can cause sore throats (pharyngitis), scarlet fever or impetigo (school sores).

In rare cases it can cause a toxic shock syndrome similar to that caused by the bacteria Staphylococcus aureus, also known as ‘golden staph’. GAS is one of the possible causes of the very rare illness necrotising fasciitis (flesh-eating bacteria). 

Occasionally GAS can lead to serious complications such as rheumatic fever, which can affect the heart, and kidney disease (glomerulonephritis).

Symptoms of group A streptococcal infection

Streptococcal sore throat (pharyngitis)

Typical symptoms include of streptococcal sore throat include: 

• a sore, red throat with thick pus-like fluid around the tonsils
• fever and chills
• enlarged and tender lymph nodes in and around the neck
• vomiting and abdominal complaints, particularly in children.

Scarlet fever

The symptoms of scarlet fever include: 

• inflammation of the throat
• a pink-red rash spreading across the abdomen, side of the chest and in the skin folds. The rash may feel like sandpaper when touched
• a bright red tongue (known as ‘strawberry tongue’)
• paleness around the mouth.

Impetigo

Streptococcal bacteria can cause impetigo, or ‘school sores’. However impetigo can also be caused by the Staphylococcus aureus (‘golden staph’) bacteria.

Symptoms of impetigo include: 

• blisters, typically around the nose and mouth and the legs
• fever and swollen lymph nodes in severe cases. 

Diagnosis of group A streptococcal infection

For cases of pharyngitis and scarlet fever, the routine method of diagnosis is identification of the organism from a throat swab. Blood tests may also be ordered. 

Impetigo is diagnosed by taking a swab of the blisters or crust of sores and checking for the presence of bacteria.

Toxic shock syndrome is diagnosed by examining symptoms and in some cases, by taking blood tests. 

You can contract group A streptococcal infection after contact with infected persons. The bacteria are present in saliva and nasal discharge so sneezing, coughing and shaking hands can spread the bacteria. 

In rare cases the infection can also be contracted from contaminated foods including: 

• milk and milk products
• eggs.

Impetigo is highly contagious. People with skin lesions or blisters should not handle food until the infection has cleared. 

Treatment for group A streptococcal infection

A course of antibiotics is the standard treatment for group A streptococcal infection; the duration will depend on the site of infection. Antibiotics which may be prescribed include: 

• penicillin
• a cephalosporin or macrolide antibiotic if you are allergic to penicillin
• antibiotic ointments for impetigo. 

Children with group A streptococcal infection

If your child develops group A streptococcal infection, including scarlet fever or impetigo:

• keep them away from children’s settings such childcare centres or school until your child has received at least 24 hours of antibiotic treatment and they feel well
• ensure your child completes the entire course of antibiotics
• if your child has impetigo, the child can return to school after commencing antibiotic treatment. Make sure all exposed sores are covered with a watertight dressing.

The infectious period for group A streptococcal infection

If your streptococcal infection is not treated, you could remain infectious for between 10 and 21 days. An untreated infection with a pus-filled discharge can remain infectious for months.  

It is important to complete any course of antibiotics you are prescribed.

Where to get help

90,000 Strep throat. Online doctor’s consultation. To make an appointment. Find the nearest clinic

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Viral throat infection or why bacteria are harmful

Spring is the time of the year when it is especially easy to “earn” a sore throat. As soon as extreme cold gives way to dampness and temperature changes, conditions become ideal for the spread of bacteria and viruses that cause various diseases, including a sore throat.

Depending on the stage of the disease causing your throat to ache, you may experience various unpleasant sensations – from mild discomfort to severe pain. If so, you are probably dreaming of early relief. The first thing you or your doctor will have to find out in order to prescribe the most effective treatment is the viral or bacterial nature of the disease.

Many diseases that have symptoms such as sore throat (such as colds and flu) are viral.Less commonly, sore throat is caused by bacteria and can lead to strep infection (strep throat).

We will tell you what is the difference between viral and bacterial throat diseases, as well as what each of them threatens.

Sore throat caused by a virus

As mentioned above, most often a sore throat is caused by a viral infection. In this case, the symptoms are:

• sore throat,
• mild pain on swallowing,
• mild pain when speaking.

Sore throat due to bacterial infection

Bacterial diseases are usually more severe than viral ones. Without proper and timely treatment, they can in some cases lead to serious complications. Symptoms to watch for:

• inflammation (sometimes accompanied by white spots or pus on the back of the throat),
• severe pain when swallowing,
• small red spots on the back of the palate,
• enlarged lymph nodes in the neck.

Pharyngitis is a disease caused by viruses or bacteria (most often streptococcus), often accompanied by tonsillitis. It is highly contagious and is especially common in school children and adolescents. In addition to sore throat, symptoms include:

• temperature rise,
• headache,
• abdominal pain,
• nausea and vomiting,
• loss of appetite.

Sore throat treatment

If symptoms persist or worsen, consult a physician.He will be able to find out the cause of the disease and prescribe the most appropriate and effective treatment – for example, prescribe antibiotics to fight a bacterial infection. However, antibiotics are completely unsuitable for treating viral diseases. In this case, you can try to turn to home treatment methods – such as warm tea with honey and lemon (provided there are no allergies to these products), hot showers, plenty of fluids and bed rest – but, often, these methods are not a solution.

If you feel that your throat is starting to hurt, try Strepsils® lozenges with honey and lemon. They contain two antiseptics that will help defeat the virus ¹ and cope with the disease at the initial stage.

If you are suffering from severe pain caused by a bacterial infection, try Strepsils® Intensive sore throat tablets. They contain flurbiprofen, which has a powerful anti-inflammatory effect and relieves pain.You can take one tablet as needed, but do not exceed 5 tablets per day. Read the instructions carefully before use.

If there is no improvement and the pain persists, you should make an appointment with a doctor.

90,000 Streptoderma in children – causes, symptoms, diagnosis and treatment of streptoderma in a child in Moscow at the SM-Doctor clinic

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Contents:
General information
Symptoms in children
Reasons
Diagnosis
Treatment
Prevention

Streptoderma is a dermatological disease characterized by the appearance of purulent rash and blisters on the skin.The disease is treated by a pediatrician and a dermatologist. Since the pathology is infectious, it is more common in children attending kindergartens and schools.

General

Streptoderma is a disease caused by streptococci. The defeat of the skin is characterized by the appearance of a rash. Blisters and abscesses form on the surface of the skin, which itch and cause discomfort.

Streptoderma in children is acute and chronic. The first is characterized by an aggressive course with severe symptoms.Chronic is characterized by periodic exacerbations and periods of abatement of the inflammatory process.

By the depth of the lesion, superficial, deep and intertriginous streptoderma is distinguished (the rash develops in the skin folds). Each of the forms has its own characteristics.

Symptoms of streptoderma

Streptoderma in children proceeds with severe symptoms:

• temperature rise to 39 ° C;
• intoxication;
• enlarged lymph nodes.

The condition of the skin differs depending on the form of the disease:

• Superficial. First, red spots appear on the skin. After 2-3 days, they transform into bubbles with a cloudy liquid inside. The blisters grow up to 2 cm in diameter, then burst. In their place, yellow crusts are formed. Subsequently, the skin in this place heals, and the disease spreads further.
• Dry. This form is more common in boys. White and pink spots up to 5 cm in diameter form on the skin.They are located on the face, neck, ears, arms and legs, and gradually become covered with a scab. Scars may remain after healing. These areas remain lightened, do not tan under the sun.
• Streptococcal jam. The disease affects the corners of the mouth, occurs when there is a lack of vitamin B. Microcracks appear on the skin, which hurt and bleed. They then turn into crusty pustules. It hurts the child to open his mouth, eating becomes difficult. Less commonly, streptococcal seizures occur in the corners of the nose or eyes.
• Panaritium. If the periungual ridges are affected by streptococcus, panaritium occurs. It is more common in babies who are used to biting their nails. Over time, the abscesses open up.
• Streptococcal diaper rash. This form of the disease is typical for infants. Bubbles form in the folds of the skin. Gradually merge. If you open them, pink, weeping surfaces are exposed.

Knowing how streptoderma begins in children, parents will be able to consult a dermatologist in time and start treatment.If you delay going to the doctor, the disease becomes chronic, and it becomes very difficult to achieve a complete cure.

Causes of streptoderma

The causative agent of the disease is group A streptococcus. The bacterium infects the surface of the skin. But not every encounter with a microorganism leads to the development of a disease. Infection manifests itself if there are aggravating factors:

• cuts, abrasions, cracks and other lesions on the skin, into which pathogens easily penetrate;
• non-compliance with hygiene rules;
• weak immunity;
• endocrine pathologies;
• concomitant dermatological diseases;
• stress;
• vitamin deficiency;
• washing the skin too often, as a result of which the protective film is washed off;
• intense exposure to low or high temperatures;
• intoxication;
• violation of blood flow.

If at least one of the listed causes of streptoderma in children is present, the likelihood of developing pathology increases significantly.

Diagnostics of streptoderma

The external symptoms of streptoderma in children are very similar to those of other dermatological diseases (urticaria, eczema, atopic dermatitis, etc.). In addition to visual examination and clarification of the epidemiological situation, microscopy and bacterial sowing of the affected areas of the skin can be performed to establish a diagnosis.

However, laboratory tests are rarely required. An experienced dermatologist will determine streptoderma by visual examination.

Treatment of streptoderma

Even if the initial examination was carried out by a pediatrician, a dermatologist should prescribe the treatment of streptoderma in children. A specialist in this profile is aware of drugs with a narrow spectrum of action that will help to quickly cope with the disease.

The first step is to transfer the child to a therapeutic diet that restricts sweet, fatty and salty foods.The course of therapy involves the refusal of bathing: water procedures contribute to the spread of the disease. It is recommended to wash healthy areas with chamomile broth, and not to touch inflamed areas.

It is important for a sick child to choose the right clothes. Synthetic and wool items should be excluded from the wardrobe. These tissues are unpleasant and contribute to the spread of the disease.

The blisters formed on the skin are recommended by doctors to be opened with a sterile needle, then to process the opening erosion with brilliant green 2 times a day.The areas of the skin that are not infected with bacteria are wiped with a boric solution. Weeping erosion is lubricated with silver nitrate or resorcinol.

If crusts form on the skin, they are treated with antibacterial gels or ointments.

In severe cases, a number of other drugs are prescribed for oral administration:

• antibiotics of the tetracycline or chloramphenicol series;
• anti-allergenic medicines;
• immunostimulants;
• vitamin complexes;
• antipyretic drugs.

The list of medications must be agreed with the doctor. Only a specialist knows how to treat streptoderma in children correctly. Self-medication can provoke the transition of pathology to a chronic form. With an adequate course of therapy, the symptoms disappear after 7 days, but after the deep form of pathology is cured, scars remain on the skin. Therefore, it is necessary to see a doctor as early as possible.

Prevention of streptoderma

To reduce the likelihood of developing streptoderma in a child, adhere to the rules of prevention:

• Observe the rules of hygiene;
• Treat lesions on the skin with antiseptics;
• Strengthen the immune system with vitamin complexes, good nutrition;
• Don’t wash your baby too often with soap;
• at the first symptoms of any disease, consult your doctor.

Streptoderma is a curable disease, but you need to see a doctor in time. The sooner treatment is started, the easier it is to avoid complications and the transition to a chronic form. You can undergo a high-quality examination of the condition of the skin in the SM-Doctor clinic. Qualified pediatric dermatologists will establish the correct diagnosis and prescribe the correct treatment.

Doctors:

Children’s Clinic Metro Maryina Roscha

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Children’s clinic m.Voikovskaya

Children’s clinic in Novye Cheryomushki metro station

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Children’s clinic m.Textile workers

Bozunov Alexey Viktorovich

Pediatric dermatologist, pediatric mycologist

Smoleva Maria Borisovna

Pediatric dermatologist of the highest category, pediatric mycologist, pediatric trichologist, pediatric cosmetologist

Korolkova (Simonovich) Polina Askoldovna

Pediatric dermatologist, pediatric trichologist, pediatric mycologist

Zueva Ksenia Mikhailovna

Pediatric dermatologist II category, pediatric mycologist, pediatric trichologist

Chekrygina Marina Vyacheslavovna

Children’s dermatologist, children’s mycologist, doctor of the highest category.Deputy Chief Physician for Medical Affairs in the Children’s Department at

Volgogradsky Prospect

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Children’s clinic m.Youth

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Children’s Clinic Metro Chertanovskaya

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Children’s clinic m.VDNKh

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Children’s clinic in Solnechnogorsk, st. Red

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How to kill streptococcus in the throat

How to treat streptococcal infection in adults and children?

Streptococcus in the throat provokes the development of an infectious disease that requires immediate treatment. In this case, a sick person must be isolated from healthy people so that infection and further spread of the disease does not occur.

When infected, bacteria settle in the throat, which provoke diseases such as pharyngitis, scarlet fever, sepsis, meningococcal infection.

The presence of bacteria in the throat can provoke the development of rheumatism, glomerulonephritis and other serious diseases.

Causes of the disease

Streptococcal infection may appear unexpectedly. And it is impossible to protect yourself from infection, because streptococci are present invisibly in human life and live in colonies in the upper respiratory tract.

The main causes of bacteria are:

• Complication after ARI;
• Herpes;
• Purulent sore throat;
• Frequent hypothermia;
• Diseases of the nasopharynx;
• Inflammatory processes on the tonsils;
• Pneumonia;
• Long-term use of hormonal drugs in women;
• Autoimmune diseases;
• Chemotherapy;
• Throwing gastric juice into the esophagus;
• Bacteria are transmitted by airborne droplets upon contact with an infected person;
• Eating food without high-quality heat treatment can provoke infection;
• Streptococci can be spread by not washing your hands before eating;
• Since bacteria live in a person’s mouth, infection can occur through kissing;
• Infection occurs if the child has a habit of taking toys in the mouth;
• Streptococcal infections from pets;
• For sore throat;
• If the immune system fails;
• If personal hygiene is not observed.

Streptococci are constantly present in the human body. This is the norm. They are in a “dormant” state. And only negative factors can provoke the appearance of an infectious disease.

Symptoms of the disease

Before understanding how to treat streptococcal infection in adults, it is important to identify the symptoms specific to the disease. Signs of infection appear suddenly, 2-3 days after infection.

Most often observed:

1. Sore throat;
2. Paroxysmal headache;
3. Redness and inflammation of the tonsils;
4. Purulent plaque on the back of the throat;
5. Perception;
6. Increased dry mouth;
7. White plaque in the form of lumps on the walls of the throat;
8. Minor cough;
9. Enlargement of the tonsils;
10. The appearance of lymph nodes;
11. Children may have fever;
12. Green mucus in the nose;
13. Increased weakness and fatigue;
14. Skin rashes in children.

Types of streptococci

To cure an infection, it is necessary to find out which group the microorganism belongs to, whether it can be treated with a certain group of drugs, how the prescribed drugs will fight streptococcus.

There are the following types of streptococci:

• Hemolytic, which are called greening. They cause partial hemolysis. Their large accumulation is detected on the teeth and gums. Viruses can infect the liver and cause bowel disease.Greening streptococci are the main cause of infective endocarditis. In pregnant women, they can be found on the surface of the genitals;
• Nonhemolytic cause dental caries. During the sanitation of the oral cavity and during hygiene, they enter the bloodstream, provoking the endocardium.

Streptococci are subdivided into groups:

1. Group A provokes various kinds of purulent diseases of the oral cavity and skin in the body.,
2. Group B reproduces in cattle.Therefore, this group of streptococci can be transmitted through meat products that have not undergone high-quality heat treatment.
3. Group C and G cause sepsis, arthritis, infections, tonsillitis, pneumonia. This group of bacteria is observed in the elderly.

Complications

Streptococcus pyogenes is dangerous because it is contagious. In children and adults, it provokes the development of pharyngitis, laryngitis, tonsillitis.
Parasanguinis causes streptococcal sore throat, which can be detected by a smear test for bacterial culture.

It is important to prescribe timely treatment so that the disease does not take on a severe clinical form.
Constellatus provokes an exacerbation of the pulmonary artery, causes an abscess in the upper respiratory tract.

Also, in case of untimely treatment, the patient is diagnosed with the following diseases that can provoke streptococcus in the throat:

It is important to take antibiotic treatment immediately to get rid of streptococcus in the body.

Treatment of the disease

Only the doctor, after examining the patient, decides what to treat and what anti-streptococcal drugs are needed to get rid of pathogenic microorganisms forever. In treatment, antibiotics take an important place in the presence of streptococci in the throat.

What drugs is streptococcus afraid of, and what drugs are most effective

Systemic antibiotics

Antibiotics are the main drugs that negatively affect the streptococcal flora, completely destroying bacteria.They affect their DNA, destroying cell structures. Drug therapy kills pathogenic microorganisms, stopping the infection of the body.

Effective treatment is impossible without antibiotics.

The highest quality are:

After treatment it is necessary to drink prebiotics:

Local antibiotics

This group of drugs treats streptococcal inflammation of the larynx, mouth and nose.

Use aerosols, nasal drops, rinsing solutions.

Recommended preparations:

Medicines destroy pathogenic microorganisms and promote rapid recovery.

Preparations for rinsing

If a patient has purulent tonsillitis, you can gargle with streptococcus:

• Chlorophylliptus;
• Chlorhexidine;
• Ingalipt.

Videos:

Expectorants

Due to the accumulation of purulent discharge, it is recommended to use the following expectorants for streptococcal infection:

Antihistamines

The treatment regimen includes antihistamines:

These cannot be used simultaneously with antibiotics.Forbidden to use during pregnancy.

This group of drugs relieves inflammation, has antipyretic and analgesic properties.

These include:

Traditional medicine

Alternative medicine can be used in complex treatment.

1. Chew propolis as often as possible or rinse with alcohol diluted with a little water.
2. Boil 200 g of cranberries and rose hips and drink a decoction of 200 grams throughout the day.
3. 50 grams of grated beetroot gruel dilute with 50 grams of water and gargle. The procedure should be done at least 3 times a day.

To avoid infection with staphylococcus, it is necessary to observe personal hygiene every day, regularly sanitize teeth, exclude contact with infected people and lead an active, healthy lifestyle.

10 remedies that can overcome streptococcal sore throat in the shortest possible time!

Victory over streptococcal sore throat with these amazing remedies!

If you have ever experienced a sharp sore throat, you guess what it might be. Streptococcal sore throat is a bacterial infection that causes swollen glands. If left untreated, it can cause further complications, including kidney inflammation or rheumatic fever.

Streptococcal sore throat is caused by bacteria streptomycin group A . These bacteria are highly contagious. The most common treatment is antibiotics, but studies have shown that antibiotics are not effective when it comes to strep throat.If you are struggling with strep, there are several folk remedies you can try to relieve symptoms and restore your immune system.

Research has shown that vitamin D plays an important role in maintaining the immune system. It is known that there is a link between vitamin D deficiency and recurrence of respiratory disease caused by the group A streptomycin bacteria. Getting a daily dose of vitamin D can help prevent and treat streptococcus.

Herbal tea is ideal to soothe your throat when you are fighting strep. It can help relieve pain while treating inflammation. Chamomile tea is full of antioxidants that can help reduce pain, swelling, and redness. Dandelion tea is another great home remedy for strep throat. It treats infection while boosting the immune system.

1. 3 . Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar is a natural antibacterial drink thanks to its acetic acid.By consuming it, the number of dangerous bacteria decreases, and the development of beneficial bacteria increases. Apple cider vinegar is a natural antibiotic that will put you on your feet.

1. Himalayan Salt

Gargling with pink Himalayan salt may help reduce swelling caused by strep throat. It also temporarily increases the oral pH balance and creates a beneficial alkaline environment. This slows down the development of bacteria. Himalayan pink salt is a natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory agent.

1. Peppermint oil

Peppermint oil is a natural remedy for sore throat. It contains menthol, which causes a cooling sensation in the throat and has a soothing effect. Just add 1-2 drops of peppermint oil to a glass of rinse water. For topical use, apply 1 to 2 drops to chest and temples.

1. Raw honey

Honey has medicinal properties due to its antibacterial properties.It creates a protective barrier to prevent infection. Honey also helps boost the immune system and helps soothe sore throat.

1. Bone decoction

Bone decoction is good for sore throat. It contains minerals that your body can easily absorb, including calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus. Bone broth keeps the immune system stable.

Elderberry has antibacterial and antiviral effects that are useful in osteochondrosis.You can drink elderberry infusion, take capsules, or use elderberry. You can even buy it in liquid form. If you have strep throat, look for elderberries at a health food store.

1. Lemon Oil

Due to its natural antibacterial properties, lemon oil can help detoxify the body. Research has shown that lemon oil can limit the growth of antibiotic-resistant bacterial strains (pure virus culture).To use it as a home remedy for strep, add 1 to 2 drops to a glass of water. You can also add it to your herbal tea for flavor.

1. Oil extractors

Studies have shown that oil extracts can reduce the level of streptococci in the mouth. Pulling coconut oil is one of the best ways to detoxify (detoxify) your mouth to create a clean, microflora. You can rinse your mouth (2 tablespoons) for 10 minutes, spit it out, rinse with clean water, then brush your teeth.

Streptococcus in children: how to protect a child from dangerous infections?

Who are streptococci?

Streptococci are a very extensive and numerous genus of bacteria that, as a rule, infect the respiratory and digestive tract, especially the throat, nose and large intestine.

Streptococci in children cause many diseases. And most parents are familiar with these “sores”: tonsillitis, scarlet fever, pharyngitis, pneumonia, periodontitis, erysipelas, lymphadenitis, streptoderma, meningitis and others.Moreover, streptococci can cause both purulent diseases (tonsillitis, pneumonia, erysipelas, adenoids, etc.) and non-purulent (for example, rheumatism).

In addition, some types of streptococci live quite peacefully in the gastrointestinal tract and in the throat, without causing any harm to the health of the child.

If your throat hurts, does it mean streptococcus?

And yet, most often, both doctors and parents recall the activity of streptococci precisely in connection with the development of a particular disease.In most cases – as soon as the child has a sore throat. However, contrary to the common opinion, especially widespread among parents, not all inflammation in the child’s nasopharynx is the result of streptococci.

Thus, the first task that parents of children face when a child develops a malaise (especially for problems arising in the respiratory tract) is to clearly determine: does the child have a virus or a streptococcal infection?

Parents can help with this in any modern medical institution that uses the so-called rapid test for direct detection of streptococcal antigen in a child: the doctor literally for seconds applies a special strip of paper to the tonsil (sometimes just to the back of the throat) of the child and the changed (or not) color of the test gets a clear picture of the presence (or absence) of streptococci in the baby’s throat.

Treatment of streptococcal infection in a child

Streptococcus bacteria have two distinctive features:

• Streptococci can cause a considerable number of deadly diseases in children;
• Unlike staphylococci, streptococci are extremely ineffective in developing antibiotic resistance (which means that it is relatively easy to find a medicine to treat streptococcal infections in a child, and the same medicine can be used years later).

On average, the treatment of streptococci in children lasts about 10 days – this is the course of taking antibiotics. The drugs, of course, should be prescribed by a doctor (and not by mom, dad or a roommate!), However, in most cases, simple and affordable antibiotics such as penicillin or erythromycin are best suited for effective treatment of streptococcal infection.

And what to do if a child has streptococcus, but no disease

Often there are opposite situations – when analyzing or testing, the presence of dangerous streptococci is found in the child’s throat, but the baby does not show any symptoms of streptococcal infection.How to behave in this case?

Usually, domestic doctors persuade parents to take so-called preventive antibiotic treatment for a child. In other countries, in our time, the approach to streptococcus is already more delicate – it is believed that if these bacteria, although present in the child’s body, do not cause illness in him, then such a child does not need any treatment.

Moreover, doctors have already proved that a healthy child – a carrier of streptococcus is practically not dangerous for others, since it releases into the surrounding environment only a very small amount of this “parasite”.

But if a child himself has already fallen ill and a streptococcal infection in his body is active, such a child is very contagious and can “share” his streptococci with a huge number of other children and adults. However, if the same child (upon confirmation of the diagnosis) has been receiving appropriate antimicrobial drugs for more than 24 hours, it is considered that he has already lost the ability to infect others.

How can you get infected with streptococci

Harmful streptococci can only be “picked up” from a person with streptococcal infection.We repeat: just the carrier of streptococci is deprived of the opportunity to share them with others.

Streptococci in children are transmitted by the following routes:

There are more than enough ways!

What happens if a streptococcal infection in a child is not treated at all

Perhaps in some parental minds the question has matured: if it is possible not to treat the very presence of streptococci in the child’s body (when an analysis or test shows their presence, but there are no signs of infection), then can the treatment of streptococcal infection be ignored as well? No, definitely not.

And the reason for this is very weighty – in the absence of proper and timely treatment, any streptococcal infection will “backfire” with serious complications, and it is likely to negatively affect the general health of the child.

So, untreated streptococcal infections can “reward” a child with the following diseases and complications:

• Severe allergies;
• Purulent otitis media of the middle ear;
• Chronic lymphadenitis;
• Inflammation of the heart membranes and others.

Among the most dangerous complications are the development of autoimmune lesions of organs and systems (diseases in which the child’s immunity “takes” healthy cells of the body tissues, modified by bacteria for the bacteria themselves, and begins to attack them), as well as the occurrence of toxicoseptic damage to organs and systems.

In other words, without treating a streptococcal infection in a child’s throat (for example, a common sore throat), you risk in the future “acquainting” this child with such terrible diseases as sepsis, rheumatoid arthritis (an incurable disease that dehydrates the body over time and leads to death by suffocation), glomerulonephritis (autoimmune inflammation of the kidneys) and others.

Streptococcus and newborn babies

Harmful streptococci pose the greatest danger to newborn babies.
If during childbirth the fetus becomes infected with a streptococcal infection (which is very likely, for example, if streptococci penetrate into the birth canal of the expectant mother), then there is a great risk of having a baby with severe symptoms: high fever, skin lesions, inability to breathe on its own. Sometimes these children have inflammation of the lining of the brain.All these symptoms are caused by a special streptococcal infection of the infant’s blood. Alas, not all babies born with streptococcal infection survive.

Let’s clarify that not all streptococci, which can potentially infect his mother, pose a threat to an unborn child – for example, the bacteria found in a pregnant woman’s nose or throat are practically not dangerous. Another thing is a special type of vaginal streptococci, which the child is at risk of contracting during childbirth.

As a rule, to allay the anxiety of the expectant mother, doctors take a streptococcus test from her at about 35-37 weeks of pregnancy.

Streptococci in a child: the most important thing

So, streptococci (like staphylococci) from time immemorial have lived with us in the closest invisible neighborhood – around each of us, even at the moment, there are probably people who are constant carriers of potentially dangerous streptococci.

And nevertheless, any carrier can carry his streptococci with him all his life, but never get sick with streptococcal infection.And accordingly – without infecting anyone, since it is impossible to “catch” an infection from a carrier (and possibly only from a sick person).

Streptococcal diseases – a great variety, and almost all of them are very common in children. The lion’s share of these diseases has a high risk of serious complications if you do not treat them, and practically disappear without a trace – if you treat them correctly and in a timely manner.

The vast majority of streptococcal infections are treated with the simplest (and note – very affordable for any wallet) antibiotics – like penicillin and erythromycin.

Streptococcus in the throat – symptoms and treatment of streptococcal infection pulmono.ru

Streptococcus in the throat can be found in any person, regardless of how old he is and how healthy he is. The fact is that there are too many streptococcal-type infections in the world – even if by some miracle it is possible to completely rid the body of them, after a while (within a few hours) they will enter it again and breed again in it.

Such bacteria – living with a person permanently – are called “opportunistic”.They are capable of causing disease if allowed to reproduce freely, but most of the time they pose no danger.

What is streptococcus

There are two main groups – hemolytic streptococcus and non-hemolytic streptococcus. The first has properties to break down blood cells and therefore is capable of causing disease. The second is absolutely safe and does not affect health.

The following groups are distinguished:

• Pneumococcus. Lives in the respiratory tract, most often causes pneumonia, but can cause otitis media, laryngitis, pharyngitis, tonsillitis.
• Greening streptococcus. In the throat it lives on mucous membranes, causing a characteristic green plaque. It differs from the rest in especially severe symptoms of intoxication, characteristic of the diseases it causes.
• Streptococcus mitis (aka Oralis). Usually captures the oral cavity, is capable of causing destruction of tooth enamel even at low concentrations. Gives complications to the heart, if it is not cured in time.
• Streptococcus angina. This is a group capable of causing sore throat in most cases.But in addition to it, it can also cause abscesses in the brain.

There are a huge number of other varieties – chemolyticus, salivarius group, pyogenic streptococcus, but there is no point in understanding them not only for the patient, but often for the doctor. Streptococci are generally susceptible to antibiotics and cause similar symptoms, knowledge of the specific strain will do nothing.

Interestingly, streptococcus aureus, which can be heard in unverified sources, does not exist.Only staphylococcus is golden.

How streptococcal infection develops

For symptoms to occur, it is not enough for a streptococcus (eg streptococcus anginosus) to enter the body. He already lives there constantly, multiplies and produces waste products. For its presence to cause problems, one of the following must occur:

• Contact must have occurred with a source of bacteria. As a result, there will be so many of them that the immune system will not be able to cope with them and an infection will begin.
• Immunity should decrease. Even if a person does not come into contact with a source of bacteria, the immune system may not be able to cope with those that already live in the body – if it was previously weakened.

Contact with bacteria can happen in different ways:

• Airborne – contact with an infected person. If the patient is actively sneezing and coughing, there is streptococcus in the air around him, which can be inhaled.
• Sexual contact with an infected person in the genital area.Streptococcus can be transmitted by contact of mucous membranes, therefore even using a condom is not a guarantee of the absence of infection. Kissing or oral sex will suffice.
• Household – contact with things used by the infected. Streptococcus can survive in the environment for some time, so using a towel, toothbrush or a sick cup is a sure way to get sick yourself.
• Fecal-oral – contact with vegetables and fruits that grew on streptococcal soil.Washing is sufficient to avoid contamination, but this is sometimes neglected.

There is also contact with pets that can carry bacteria.

A decrease in immunity can occur for various reasons:

• Another infection. The disease weakens the immune system, because streptococcus often begins to multiply actively and adds complications to the viral infection.
• Chronic disease. The focus of inflammation constantly requires work from the immune system, so less resource remains for the rest.
• Hormonal disorders. It is especially important for women whose hormonal background is disturbed during pregnancy, during puberty and during menopause.
• Oncology. Not only the cancer itself, but also the methods of its treatment negatively affect.
• Wrong way of life. Regime disturbances, eating disorders, constant stress, lack of normal physical activity – all this weakens.
• Constant heartburn. It is typical for people who consume too acidic and spicy food or suffer from ulcers and disorders of acid metabolism in the stomach.As a result, the mucous membrane in the mouth is constantly irritated and the local immunity is reduced.
• Abuse of bad habits. The ethyl alcohol in alcohol will thin and irritate the mucous membranes in the mouth and throat. The tobacco smoke literally burns it out and dries it out. Local immunity is reduced as a result.

Diseases of the teeth, frequent hypothermia or overheating, too dry air in a permanent habitat – all this affects the state of immunity.

Symptoms of streptococcal infection

Streptococcal throat infection can manifest itself in different ways – accordingly, the symptoms also differ.Usually it is either a sore throat, or pharyngitis, or scarlet fever.

The following symptoms are characteristic of angina:

• General symptoms of intoxication. The severity depends on which type of streptococcus has settled in the inflamed tonsils, but one way or another they are always present. Headache, joint pain, lack of appetite, lethargy, weakness, depressed mood. Sometimes – dizziness, nausea.
• High temperature. Usually it rises sharply, it can reach forty.
• Sore throat. A cutting character, aggravated by trying to swallow.
• Redness of the tonsils. The main symptom of bacterial sore throat is that the tonsils look enlarged, red, inflamed. On them, you can see purulent plaques and plaque with the naked eye (with green streptococcus – green, in other cases white or yellowish).

Angina usually starts abruptly – the temperature rises in a few hours, a sore throat appears, the patient begins to feel worse. Her symptoms are very pronounced, it is difficult to confuse her with other diseases and she is immediately noticeable.

Pharyngitis is different – his symptoms are blurry, so it’s harder to fight it. You need to notice in time that something is wrong. Typically it is characterized by:

• A slight increase in temperature. Usually not more than thirty-eight.
• Sore throat. The most characteristic symptom is that the mucous membranes look swollen, red, inflamed. Plaque may be visible on them.
• Coughing and coughing. It is difficult for the patient to swallow, the mucous membranes are irritated, therefore, from time to time, a dry cough manifests itself in attacks.

If there is no thermometer at hand, pharyngitis can be skipped and then it will lead to the development of otitis media, laryngitis or pneumonia.

Roughly the same thing will happen if you do not notice scarlet fever – and in an adult it is quite possible, because he will only have a slight fever, slight malaise and a pale rash all over his body.

In children, scarlet fever is much more pronounced:

• Elevated temperature. Usually up to forty.
• General symptoms of intoxication. Headaches, lack of appetite, weakness.
• Scarlet fever. One of the classic signs of scarlet fever is a small red rash where the skin is thinnest – in the groin, on the face, on the folds of the elbows.
• Changing the structure of the language. The second classic sign is that the tongue becomes bright crimson, its texture changes, it becomes “grained”, which can be seen even with the naked eye.

All variants of streptococcal infection imply only a lesion of the throat – nothing changes in the nose, there is usually no runny nose and congestion, although if complications begin, they may appear.

How and how to treat streptococcus in the throat

Treatment of streptococcal infection in the throat usually does not involve the most active diagnosis – this is due to the fact that the patient usually calls the doctor at home when the inflammation becomes obvious, and the fever does not allow him to go to the clinic himself …

In such conditions, extensive diagnostic measures are simply impossible, therefore the doctor focuses on the symptoms, which are very characteristic of streptococcus.

If the patient still goes to the clinic, he is prescribed general blood and urine tests to check the state of the body, and a swab from the throat, which, after several days of observation, allows you to determine the specific type of streptococcus, as well as how much it is sensitive to antibiotics.

Antibiotics are indispensable for streptococcal infections. They kill most bacteria and are prescribed in two versions:

• Local. Most often it is Bioparox spray, which must be sprayed down the throat four times a day for a week. It differs in a small number of contraindications and side effects, allows you to remove streptococci without affecting the entire body.
• System. These antibiotics affect the entire body, therefore they are prescribed when the infection has gone far, the tonsils become inflamed with pus, the fastest and most decisive intervention is required.They usually belong to the simple penicillin group and need to be taken for ten days.

When using antibiotics, remember that it is not enough just to get rid of the symptoms, you need to eliminate the pathogen. To do this, you need to complete the course, even if the symptoms have ceased to bother the patient already in the middle. Otherwise, there is a great chance that a relapse will occur, in which the bacteria will no longer be sensitive to a particular antibiotic.

Antibiotics complement a number of adjuvants, without which streptococcal infection is much more difficult to cure.These are:

• Probiotics. They are prescribed when treated with a systemic antibiotic. They are dry cysts of symbiont bacteria living in the intestines, and make up for the damage caused by the antibiotic.
• Antipyretic. Temperatures up to thirty-eight are a logical attempt by the body to burn out bacteria that are sensitive to heat. But when it grows and reaches thirty-eight and five – and even higher – the load becomes too large, the internal organs begin to suffer, therefore antipyretic drugs are needed.
• Painkillers. Relieves headaches, which can be very excruciating.
• Emollients. These are usually lozenges and tablets that must be sucked. They moisturize the mucous membrane and reduce irritation, making it easier for the patient to talk and swallow.

Medication is not everything. It needs to be supplemented with bed rest, which includes:

• Complete rest. No active work, no attempt to survive the infection on my feet.Even sitting at the computer is not recommended. Sleep a lot, lie in bed the rest of the time and do things that do not require the application of strength.
• Nice atmosphere. The lights need to be dimmed, the curtains closed. In the mornings and evenings, ventilate the room, maintain the temperature no higher than twenty-five degrees. Keeping an eye on humidity is always important in the treatment of respiratory diseases. If there are relatives who can carry out wet cleaning, do it every two days.
• Insulation.Streptococcal infection is contagious, so the patient should be given separate hygiene items, a separate mug, a separate plate. People around use gauze bandages.
• Plentiful warm drink. Helps flush out bacterial plaque, moisturizes and soothes the throat. Should not be too cold or too hot. Herbal infusions are best suited – sage, chamomile, calendula, lemon balm, mint. You can drink citrus juices – vitamin C is useful for sickness. You can drink compotes and fruit drinks. No alcohol.
• Gentle diet. In the process of fighting the disease, the body needs strength, therefore, it must at the same time provide it with nutrition, and not force it to spend too much resource on digestion. Plus, it is usually difficult for the patient to swallow. A good solution would be a diet consisting of low-fat soups, thoroughly ground puree, broth, steamed cutlets, baked or stewed vegetables and fruits. Dairy products can be added during the convalescent stage, just like bread.

It is necessary to supplement bed rest and the drug regimen with folk remedies, which usually include all relatively healthy recipes.

Rinsing is needed – they will remove bacterial plaque, reduce the likelihood of infection spreading and alleviate symptoms. They need to be carried out six times a day, using:

• Miramistin. An antiseptic that can be found in any pharmacy.
• Saline solution. A teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water. You can also add a pinch of baking soda and a few drops of iodine there.
• Herbal infusions. Calendula and chamomile are commonly used.

If the patient is a child who is still too young to gargle on his own, you can irrigate his mucous membranes with Miramistin manually, with the same frequency as the gargles.

Needs inhalations. Best of all – with saline. This will soften the throat and make breathing easier.

Well proven also:

• Aromatherapy. When bathing, you need to drop a few drops of sage, lemon balm, lemon, mint, and fir essential oil into the bath. The main thing is quite a bit and only when there is no temperature.
• Ginger sweetness. Wash the lemon, grind in a blender. Do the same with ginger. Mix until smooth, pour a few spoons of honey on top.Dissolve after meals several times a day.

The more complex and active the treatment, the faster the disease will recede.

But it is still impossible to carry out therapy without a doctor’s prescription. The patient may be mistaken in the diagnosis, confusing streptococcus with another bacterium or even with a virus.

Antibiotic therapy site for streptococcal infection | Maltseva

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How to cure a sore throat and prevent the development of complications

Angina pharyngis or angina (acute tonsillitis) is the most common upper respiratory tract disease.

The nature of the inflammatory processes of this common acute infectious disease is associated with the lymphadenoid tissue of the pharynx called the tonsils. Everyone should know how to treat angina at home in order to avoid complications.

After influenza, the incidence of this common disease is the second in the world. Children and adults up to 40 years of age are mainly susceptible to infection. Infection can occur due to the influence of the external environment or from its own microbes.

At the initial stage, the disease is a simple inflammation of the lymphadenoid ring of the pharynx. The secondary stage (symptomatic) as a consequence of the transferred infectious diseases (diphtheria, scarlet fever, etc.) causes damage to the tonsils and the circulatory system (blood flow system). A specific stage implies the presence of specific infections.

If your throat is red and you feel pain when swallowing, this does not mean that angina begins. We propose to figure out what symptoms can be mistaken for sore throat.

What is sore throat

This is an acute infectious disease, accompanied by headache, fever, general weakness, loss of appetite, inflammation of the tonsils. This means that the latter increase in size, turn red, a white coating forms on them, and a pulling pain in the throat appears, which intensifies during swallowing.

However, even if all of the above symptoms are observed in you, you do not need to diagnose yourself.For this, it is best to consult a doctor. The fact is that the symptoms of angina are very similar to those of diphtheria and other equally dangerous diseases. And if angina is treated exclusively with antibiotics, it is impossible to cure diphtheria with them. For this, it is necessary to use an anti-diphtheria serum.

In order not to start the disease and not to find any complications, it is necessary to seek medical help in time.

Symptoms of sore throat

The incubation period during sore throat is 24 to 48 hours.The disease always begins acutely. The patient develops chills, general malaise, weakness, headache and aching bones, acute pain at the time of swallowing. In this case, the body temperature of the sick person reaches 38-39 degrees.

At first, pain is not very disturbing and only during swallowing. A few hours after the disease, the sore throat increases and becomes constant. The maximum severity of pain in the pharynx falls on the second day.

Also, angina is characterized by increased soreness, an increase in volume and compaction of the maxillary lymph nodes.On the tonsils, as a rule, small abscesses form, and in some cases even areas of accumulation of pus.

How to recover from a sore throat

Without the use of antibiotics, which should be prescribed by a doctor, it is quite difficult to cure a sore throat at home. Late seeking help can lead to undesirable consequences in the form of complications.

However, during the treatment of the disease with antibiotics, the beneficial flora of the body is destroyed. Therefore, in parallel with drugs for the treatment of angina, it is important to take drugs that restore flora.

Before taking antibiotics for the treatment of sore throat, be sure to consult with your doctor, especially if you do not know what form of sore throat you have, because the treatment will be ineffective.

It is recommended to stay in bed, drink more, and take food only that will not injure a sore throat for 3-5 days, while the temperature remains. This can be mashed potatoes, thin milk porridge, broth, warm milk, and other foods.

The liquid well cleanses the sick body of toxins, therefore, during a sore throat, you should drink more tea with raspberries, lemon, linden, mint, compote and other drinks in a warm form that do not contain gases.

It is important to remember that it is impossible to completely cure a sore throat with just rinsing. But you can relieve the pain with a decoction of chamomile, a solution of salt or soda. Also today in pharmacy chains you can buy sprays for sore throat, which will help the disease to recede.

During treatment, it is not recommended to bring down the temperature to 38 degrees. But if the temperature is above this mark, you should definitely take an antipyretic.

If the symptoms of sore throat recur often enough, the body should be strengthened.To do this, you need to go in for sports, temper, take immuno-strengthening drugs, but only with the agreement of the attending doctor.

Complications of sore throat

I would like to talk about how dangerous angina is and what are its complications. Even in the early stages of the disease, an abscess of the pharynx is dangerous because the infection can penetrate into the chest and cranial cavity, where it will continue to progress. As a result, the patient runs the risk of getting a complication of angina in the form of meningitis, poisoning of the body with the waste products of microbes (infectious toxic shock) and even sepsis, popularly known as blood poisoning.

At a later stage, angina and its complications are dangerous for the joints, brain and heart (rheumatism). Also, if the disease has not been completely cured, glomerulonephritis can develop, which affects the kidneys.

As you can see, it is necessary to treat the disease on time, since the complications of angina can have a destructive effect on all organs and systems of the body. How quickly you can cure a sore throat will depend on how quickly you seek help from a doctor and how accurately you follow all his prescriptions.

Prevention of sore throat

First of all, you should take care of your immunity. In order to strengthen it, it is important to include in the diet as many fresh vegetables and fruits as possible.

If you feel that an infection begins to develop in your body, you should immediately eat half a lemon along with the zest. In order for vitamin C and essential oils to be able to maximize their effect on a sore throat, it is not recommended to eat after drinking lemon for about an hour.

It is probably unnecessary to say that you need to take care of your health, keep your feet warm, dress correctly, and not be nervous.In addition, it is very important to prevent the ingress of microorganisms inside, to temper your body, thereby increasing immunity. You need to approach the problem consistently, then you will not need to look for how to treat angina at home.

Let’s name the basic rules for the prevention of angina:

• General and separate hygiene. Use only your own towels, toothbrushes, utensils. Isolate yourself from the rest of your family if you get sick.
• Eat right.The food should have an optimal ratio of vitamins, microelements, proteins, carbohydrates and fats. In the winter-spring period, be sure to add vitamin C to the diet, since in our latitudes at this time it is sorely lacking in food.
• Treat diseases such as sinusitis, pyelonephritis, rhinitis, dental caries, helminthiasis in time. If chronic tonsillitis often occurs, consult your doctor regarding further treatment tactics. Perhaps partial or complete removal of the tonsils is necessary; physiotherapy is effective in the treatment of chronic tonsillitis and pharyngitis.
• Engage in hardening your body. It is best to harden from an early age. However, it is never too late to apply hardening. Do rubdowns, swimming, contrasting wipes, in summer you can walk barefoot in the dew. Remember that hardening is only suitable if there is no illness at the moment.
• Strengthen the immune system. Do not use frequent gargling or overdoing the conditioner. Too dry air, as well as warm air, can damage the mucous membrane.Don’t limit yourself to just warm food: cold drinks and ice cream also harden the mucous membrane. Just start hardening gradually. Internal immunity is strengthened with the help of immunomodulators. Effectively improve humoral immunity with interferon. Most often, in addition, preparations of bacterial origin are prescribed – bronchomunil, ribomunil, as well as vitamin complexes.
• To prevent recurrence of streptococcal sore throat in carriers of GABHS, vaccination is carried out with such a drug as retarpen or bicillin.

Preventive measures are very important to prevent sore throat. Check with your doctor first to avoid relapses. Constant sports and physical activity, morning exercises, cold water rubdowns help.

To increase the susceptibility of the mucous membrane to hypothermia, doctors recommend local hardening: gargle with water, reducing the temperature to cold.