Strep Throat
(Throat Infection · Strep · Streptococcal Pharyngitis)
In this condition factsheet:
Diagnosing Strep Throat
We've all opened our mouths and said "aaah" at some point. That's a simple test for strep throat. Usually, if bacteria are present, the uvula (the punching-bag-shaped object hanging at the back of the mouth) and the tonsils are red and inflamed and dotted with pus deposits. Another finding may be tiny reddish-blue spots called petechiae on the roof of the mouth.
Even doctors can't always tell a bacterial infection from a viral infection by the symptoms alone. The standard test is a throat swab to gather bacteria from inside the throat, to be sent to a lab or tested in the doctor's office using a special kit. Many doctors' offices, and even some pharmacies, use rapid tests that can provide results in less than 15 minutes.
Treating and Preventing Strep Throat
The vast majority of streptococcal throat infections will go away on their own even without treatment, and the chance of rheumatic fever or meningitis is small even if you don't go to the doctor. The main reason to use antibiotics is to prevent these very rare but serious complications; not to treat the throat symptoms. The majority of sore throats do not get seen by a doctor, yet hardly any of these untreated patients develop complications.
You can help manage symptoms such as pain caused by sore throat with over-the-counter products like acetaminophen* or ibuprofen.
The most commonly used antibiotics to treat strep throat are from the penicillin class of antibiotics. They are available by prescription and come as oral tablets, capsules, or liquid suspensions. They are prescribed for a period of 5 to 10 days. Be sure to mention to your doctor if you have allergies to any medications.
Most of the people given oral antibiotics for sore throat don't have bacterial infections, so they can't possibly benefit from these medications. They can, however, be harmed by antibiotics. You shouldn't take antibiotics for a sore throat unless you've had a bacterial infection properly diagnosed or unless otherwise instructed by your doctor. However, if you are treated with antibiotics, finish the course of treatment! This will help to prevent antibiotic resistance.
These tips may help people to stay healthy in the presence of the streptococcus bacteria:
- Anyone taking antibiotics should finish the prescription even if symptoms are gone.
- Children with the illness shouldn't go to school until they've been on antibiotics for at least 24 hours.
- Children should be taught to cover their nose and mouth if they cough, for example, by coughing into their sleeve or into a tissue.
- If you're taking antibiotics, consider replacing the "good" bacteria in your digestive tract. You can do this by eating yogurt containing live Lactobacillus acidophilus. It is also available in a pill form. Ask your health care provider if taking Lactobacillus acidophilus is appropriate for you.
- People with strep throat and those around them should wash their hands frequently.
- People with strep throat should discard their old toothbrush and use a new toothbrush after being on antibiotics for 24 hours.
All material copyright MediResource Inc. 1996 – 2024. Terms and conditions of use. The contents herein are for informational purposes only. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Source: www.medbroadcast.com/condition/getcondition/Strep-Throat
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