Strep rash, or scarlet fever, is caused by group A strep bacteria and presents with a textured rash and flu-like symptoms. Treatment involves antibiotics to prevent complications, and complications can include organ damage if left untreated. Diagnosis is done through a physical exam and throat culture, and proactive measures should be taken to prevent the spread of the bacteria.
Strep rash, also known as scarlet fever, is caused by having a strep throat infection triggered by exposure to group A strep bacteria. Frequently in children and adolescents, individuals with this condition develop a textured rash that can appear on the limbs and torso, as well as various other flu-like symptoms. Presenting with the traditional strep infection, treatment for strep rash generally involves giving antibiotics to clear the infection and prevent complications.
The strep bacteria that causes strep throat is aggressive and can be easily spread through close interpersonal contact. Symptoms of scarlet fever usually appear within a few days of first exposure to strep bacteria. Individuals frequently develop a telltale red rash that shows up on the neck and upper torso before spreading to the extremities, including the limbs and fingers. Textured in appearance, the toxin-induced rash spreads aggressively over the body and usually lasts for at least a week.
Concomitantly experiencing a strep rash, individuals may also develop signs characteristic of traditional strep, including sore throat and headache. It is not uncommon for symptomatic individuals to have difficulty eating and drinking due to the discomfort the condition causes in the throat. Your tongue may also take on a reddish, swollen appearance which contributes to your oral discomfort. Additional signs of strep rash include fever, chills, abdominal discomfort, and a general feeling of pain.
Complications associated with strep throat rarely occur with prompt and appropriate treatment. When an individual’s symptoms are ignored, however, the infection can spread, threatening organ function and causing permanent damage. If left untreated, the sore throat rash can spread to areas of the head, eventually settling in the sinuses, ears, or brain. Organ function may also be impaired if infection and subsequent inflammation occurs in the heart, lungs, or kidneys. Additional complications may also include abscess formation, pneumonia, and meningitis.
Advances in modern medicine have reduced the threat that strep rash once posed. Considered a treatable condition, scarlet fever can be diagnosed with the help of a physical exam and throat culture. Administration of a throat culture involves swabbing the person’s throat, near the tonsils, to obtain a saliva sample that can be tested in a laboratory to identify the cause of the infection.
Antibiotic medications, such as clarithromycin and penicillin, are usually prescribed to aggressively eradicate bacterial presence and infection. To prevent the development of complications, individuals are asked to strictly adhere to the treatment regimen recommended by the doctor. Because of the ease with which strep bacteria spreads, close interpersonal contact is generally discouraged for symptomatic individuals, including sharing glasses or silverware. Proactive measures, such as washing your hands regularly and covering your mouth when sneezing or coughing, are also encouraged to prevent the spread of strep bacteria.
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