Strep throat is a fairly common condition, accounting for approximately 30% of sore throats in children and 5% to 15% in adults. The central symptom of strep throat in children and adults is quickly developing throat pain. Other symptoms may include:
- Pain when swallowing
- Swollen tonsils
- Headache
- Fever
- Swollen glands in the neck
- Body rash
- Red spots on the roof of the mouth
- Red or white streaks in the throat or tonsils
- Stomach pain, nausea or vomiting
Feeling that slight soreness or scratchiness creep up in your throat is never a fun addition to your day. Let’s look at the length of strep throat symptoms and some tips and tricks to help alleviate discomfort.
How Do You Get Strep Throat?
Strep throat is caused by a bacteria known as group A Streptococcus. The bacteria is easily spread when an infected individual secretes droplets from their mouth or nose. The droplets can be spread when a person talks, laughs, sneezes or coughs.
Why Is It Important To Treat Strep Throat?
Because strep throat is caused by bacteria, your provider will likely treat it with antibiotics. Once you begin taking antibiotics, your symptoms should disappear within ten days. Even if your symptoms disappear earlier, you should take your full cycle of antibiotics.
While you may notice your symptoms abating without treatment, seeking medical intervention for strep throat is wise. Left untreated, the group A strep bacteria can spread to other parts of your body and cause complications including but not limited to:
- Ear or sinus infections
- Abscesses
- Scarlet fever
- Invasive streptococcal infection
- Rheumatic fever
How Can You Manage Your Symptoms?
A few symptom management options available in your home include:
- Gargle saltwater. Saltwater is effective at reducing inflammation in the throat. Mix ¼ teaspoon of table salt with 8 ounces of warm water and gargle as long as possible before spitting the mixture into the sink.
- Honey tea. Honey tea can have a soothing effect on the throat. Consider mixing some of your favorite herbal teas from Happy Lucky’s Teahouse with honey to reduce throat irritation.
Once you are no longer contagious with group A strep, you can feel free to enjoy work and time with friends and family. To learn more about treating your strep throat, contact Alpine Ear Nose & Throat PC today to make an appointment with one of our specialists.