Strep throat is a bacterial infection that causes inflammation and soreness in the throat. It is primarily caused by group A Streptococcus bacteria (Streptococcus pyogenes). The infection is characterized by a sudden onset of symptoms, which can include:
- Sore throat
- Red and swollen tonsils, sometimes with white patches or streaks of pus
- Painful swallowing
- Fever
- Swollen lymph nodes in the neck
- Headache
- Rash (in some cases, particularly associated with scarlet fever, which is a complication of strep throat)
Strep throat is more common in children, but it can affect individuals of any age. The infection spreads via respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes, or by touching surfaces contaminated with the bacteria.
Diagnosis typically involves a physical examination and a rapid strep test or throat culture. Treatment usually involves antibiotics, which can help reduce the duration of symptoms, prevent complications, and reduce the contagion period. In most cases, individuals start to feel better within a few days of starting antibiotic treatment. It's important to complete the full course of antibiotics even if symptoms improve before finishing the medication. Additionally, over-the-counter pain relievers can help alleviate symptoms.
If left untreated, strep throat can lead to complications such as rheumatic fever or kidney inflammation (post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis). If you suspect you or someone else has strep throat, it's important to consult a healthcare professional for appropriate evaluation and treatment.
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