Strep throat is a common bacterial infection that causes a sore throat. It is caused by Streptococcus pyogenes, and people who get it often have little or no symptoms. If you suspect you have strep throat, it’s important to go see your doctor right away so they can diagnose you and get the right strep throat treatment.
It can be hard to tell the difference between strep throat and other throat problems.
Strep throat is an infection of the mucous membranes of your nose, throat, tonsils and/or vocal cords. The symptoms include:
- A sore throat that lasts more than 3 weeks (or 4 days)
- A fever over 100 degrees Fahrenheit for adults or over 102 degrees Fahrenheit for children under age 5 years old
- Pain when swallowing saliva (pharyngitis)
If you think you may have strep, it is important to seek a professional diagnosis. Strep throat is caused by streptococcus bacteria and can cause sore throat, fever and headache. The symptoms of streptococcal infection are similar to those of other bacterial infections such as sinusitis (cold or flu), bronchitis and pneumonia.
If left untreated, strep throat can cause complications such as:
- Earache due to swelling in the middle ear space
- Loss of voice due to inflammation at the vocal cords
Many people need to stay away from others until they are no longer contagious.
- Stay away from others until you are no longer contagious.
- Don’t go to the grocery store or mall.
See a doctor if you suspect you have strep.
If you suspect that you have strep, see a doctor immediately. It’s important to get treated as soon as possible because untreated strep throat can lead to serious health problems like pneumonia and meningitis.
Strep is caused by group A beta-hemolytic Streptococcus bacteria and is spread through contact with saliva or mucus from someone who has it (or from touching contaminated surfaces). It usually causes symptoms of an upper respiratory tract infection: fever, headache, body aches and swollen glands in the neck and throat area.
Conclusion
If you think you might have strep, it is important that you get the right treatment from your family doctor as soon as possible. They can provide the best care and treatment for your symptoms and make sure you don’t spread any bacteria to others. So, be careful and act quickly when you suspect any changes.
