What is Strep Throat?
A very common throat infection that affects adults as well as children and teenagers is strep throat. It is an infection caused by group A Streptococcus bacteria. This causes a lot of discomfort and irritation in the throat along with some other symptoms as well. It can easily spread from person to person through coughing, sneezing, etc. This type of throat infection is very different from the one caused by viruses, as it requires a course of antibiotics to get better.
Causes Of Strep Throat
The main cause of strep throat infection is group A Streptococcus bacteria. This type of bacteria can be easily transmitted in places such as schools, daycares, public transport, etc. Children that have a weak immune system have more risk of catching this infection. It spreads through touching contaminated surfaces such as utensils, books, handles, etc. Sharing food and drinks with someone who already has an infection is also considered bad. Coughing and sneezing lets droplets containing bacteria enter the air and can be inhaled by others.
Strep throat can have many symptoms, and some of the common signs include:
- Sore throat
- Fever
- Headache
- Swollen tonsils
- Loss of appetite
- Body ache
- Rashes
- Swollen lymph nodes
How To Detect That You Have Strep Throat
A proper diagnosis is very important to see that you have strep throat so that you can get well easily. One of the first examinations is done physically to look for swollen lymph nodes, a rash, etc. After that, if the issue is still there, then a throat swab test is done to find out the presence of the bacteria. Sometimes the throat swab test is negative, but the symptoms suggest a strep throat; in that case, a throat culture test is done for more accurate results that may take 1-2 days.
Treatment For Strep Throat
Strep throat is usually treated with antibiotics to clear the infection and to prevent any further complications. One of the most common antibiotics that is prescribed for strep throat is penicillin or amoxicillin. These medicines are effective in clearing out the infection from the core. Along with the antibiotics, over-the-counter pain relievers can reduce fever, inflammation, and throat pain. Rest also plays an important role as it offers the body enough time for recovery. Staying well hydrated is important, and you can consume warm liquids such as tea, soups, etc., for good hydration. A simple home remedy, which is gargling with a solution of warm water and salt, can further ease throat pain. It’s never a good idea to stop taking antibiotics if you start feeling well; completing the course is important.
Prevention
You should inculcate a habit of washing hands regularly in your children. Wash your hands before eating and after coughing and sneezing so that germs do not spread in any manner. Make sure that you avoid contact with anyone who has the infection so that it does not spread. If you are sneezing or coughing, make sure that you cover your nose with a towel or handkerchief. Ensure that your kids are not sharing personal items like spoons, towels, water bottles, etc. Keep surfaces at your home clean so that there is no spreading of infection. Make sure that you disinfect all the surfaces regularly. All these habits are very easy to carry out on a daily basis.
Therefore, whenever you experience strep throat symptoms, make sure that you consult a doctor for a better diagnosis.
