Strep Throat

Strep Throat

Strep throat is caused by Group A Streptococcus bacteria and is the most common bacterial infection affecting the throat.

Causes, Incidence, and Risk Factors

Although anyone can get strep throat, it is most prevalent in children aged 5 to 15.

The bacteria responsible for strep throat are transmitted through person-to-person contact via nasal secretions or saliva, often spreading among family or household members.

Symptoms

Symptoms of strep throat can vary in severity and typically manifest 2 to 5 days after exposure to the bacteria. They may include:

- Sudden onset of fever, often peaking on the second day
- Red throat, occasionally with white patches
- Sore throat
- Headache
- Nausea
- Chills
- Malaise
- Loss of appetite and altered taste perception
- Swollen lymph nodes in the neck
- Difficulty swallowing

Some strains of strep bacteria can cause a rash resembling scarlet fever, believed to be an allergic reaction to bacterial toxins.

Signs and Tests

While a rapid strep test is commonly performed in healthcare settings, it may not detect all cases. If initial testing is negative but strep throat is still suspected, a throat swab culture may be conducted, although results may take one to two days to be available.

Treatment

Since most sore throats are caused by viruses rather than strep bacteria, accurate diagnosis requires testing. Antibiotics should only be prescribed if strep is confirmed, as they can prevent potential complications like rheumatic fever.

Penicillin or amoxicillin is typically prescribed for a duration of 10 days, even if symptoms subside earlier.

To alleviate symptoms, individuals with strep throat can try the following remedies:

- Drinking warm liquids such as lemon tea or honey-infused tea
- Gargling with warm salt water several times daily
- Consuming cold liquids or sucking on popsicles
- Using throat lozenges or hard candies (avoiding them in young children to prevent choking)
- Employing a cool-mist vaporizer or humidifier to soothe a dry throat
- Taking over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen

Expectations (Prognosis)

Symptoms of strep throat typically improve within a week with proper treatment. However, untreated strep can lead to serious complications.