Strep throat is a bacterial infection caused by Streptococcus bacteria, common among children and adolescents but can also affect adults. Symptoms include sore throat, fever, headache, rash, stomach pain, and swollen glands. A healthcare professional can perform a strep test to confirm the presence of bacteria and prescribe antibiotics. Untreated infections can lead to rheumatic fever. Strep is contagious and can be spread by coughing, sneezing, and touching objects. Not all sore throats are strep infections, and pain relief can be achieved with acetaminophen and ibuprofen. Seek medical attention if difficulty swallowing or breathing occurs.
Streptococcus is caused by Streptococcus bacteria, the most common bacteria responsible for strep throat infections. This disease is most common among children and adolescents, but adults can also get it. It is a bacterial infection and requires an antibiotic to treat it effectively.
Sore throat symptoms can vary with age, but almost always include a sore throat. Many times, sore throat is accompanied by fever and possibly a headache, and even young children can develop a rash. The rash looks like small red bumps, usually located under the arms or elsewhere on the torso. A patient may also experience stomach pain and swollen glands.
Anyone with a sore throat accompanied by a fever should see a healthcare professional. If this individual suspects strep throat, he or she will perform a test by swabbing the back of the throat to confirm the presence of the bacteria. Usually, a strep test is a combination of a rapid test and a culture. A rapid strep test isn’t as conclusive as a lab culture, but medical professionals can often confirm strep in about 15 minutes and prescribe a course of antibiotics if needed. They usually follow up this test by sending the sample to a lab for confirmation by culture, which takes about 24 hours.
A persistent sore throat should be checked by a professional, as an untreated infection can develop into rheumatic fever, a rare condition that can affect the joints and heart. Penicillins, macrolides, and cephalosporins are common antibiotics prescribed to treat the disease. In rare cases, a doctor may suggest removing the tonsils if they are suspected to harbor bacteria and cause recurring infections.
Strep is contagious, and children with it should avoid going back to school or daycare until they’ve both been fever-free and have been on an antibiotic for 24 hours. The bacteria can be spread by coughing and sneezing and also by touching objects touched by an infected person. This is why the condition is so common among children.
Not all sore throats are strep infections, but it is common. If the pain goes away shortly after waking up or is relieved by drinking fluids, it could be a viral infection. Acetaminophen and ibuprofen can help relieve pain and discomfort. If your sore throat causes difficulty swallowing, resulting in drooling or difficulty breathing, you should see a doctor right away.
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