Symptoms of Strep Throat

Strep throat is a medical condition caused by a bacteria called Streptococcus pyogenes, states the University of Maryland Medical Center. Also known as Streptococcal pharyngitis, strep throat is a very common infection.


The bacteria from the Group A streptococcus family is found worldwide on the skin and the throat. Group B streptococcus is a different bacteria in the same family that mainly causes infections in newborns. The streptococcus A is the bacteria responsible for strep throats.

Symptoms and Contagion of Strep Throat

Symptoms of strep throat begin with redness and a sore sensation in the throat. The onset is frequently sudden, and a high fever, above 101 degrees, is common. Other symptoms can include white spots in the throat, headaches, nausea, chills, and loss of appetite, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. The person may also have difficulty swallowing or swollen lymph nodes. A rash can develop that looks like a scarlet fever rash as well.

Strep infection is spread from person to person. Symptoms of strep throat occur from two to five days after exposure.



Complications and Treatment of Strep Throat

Complications from strep throat include rheumatic fever, or a kidney infection, according to the National Institute of Health. Strep throat usually resolves on its own, according to the National Institutes of Health, though they point out that most cases are treated with an antibiotic to prevent complications. The antibiotics usually prescribed include penicillin or amoxicillin, but not azithromycin, as the bacteria may be resistant to that antibiotic.

Sore throat and Strep Throat Differentiation and Diagnosis

Sore throats are caused by viruses, and not by the streptococcus bacteria, and are usually less severe and less painful than a strep infection. Because most sore throats accompany colds and flu, a cough or a runny nose will also be seen. These symptoms are an indication of a viral sore throat, but medical diagnosis is needed for confirmation.

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Diagnosis of strep throat is done in a doctor's office with a throat swab. If the test is inconclusive, a throat culture will be needed. This is when the material taken from the throat is grown on a petri dish.

When to Consult a Doctor for a Sore Throat

If a sore throat lasts for more than two days, or if a fever develops, consult a medical professional. If white patches appear in the throat or if a sore throat does not improve after four days, also seek medical advice.


Author Paul Linus


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