There are many people who have at one time or another suffered through strep throat. This painful infection of the throat can be caused by a various bacteria. Strep throat is very common in children between the ages of 5 and 15. Despite that, it’s still possible for people of any age to get strep throat. What’s worse is that strep throat is very contagious. People who who or sneeze without covering it up are very capable of spreading it to the people around them.
So what can people do to handle strep throat? Early analysis of symptoms can lead to quick turnaround when it comes to treatment. Treating strep throat will make you and the people around you feel much better. For some people, strep throat isn’t a big deal, but sometimes it can become fairly severe. Knowing the symptoms is the first step to a successful bout with strep throat.
Symptoms of Strep Throat
Symptoms will vary in severity from person to person. Not everyone will have all of the symptoms, but almost everyone will experience issues in the throat. Symptoms of strep develop fairly quickly after a person has been exposed. Often it merely takes a day or two, but generally no longer than five days. Symptoms of strep throat to look out for include:
- Sore Throat - This is the most common and easily seen symptom.
- Red and White Patches in the Throat - This is a trademark symptoms. Looking down the person’s throat will reveal the unsightly patches.
- Lymph Node Swelling - The swollen lymph nodes in the neck may feel tender to the touch.
- Loss of Appetite - This is quite common. Adding in difficulty swallowing food can contribute to not wishing to eat.
- Chills - Uncomfortable and seemingly random chills are possible for people with strep throat.
- Headache - This is a very common symptom. The severity of headaches will vary from person to person.
Treatment of Strep Throat
There’s a few avenues that will be taken once strep throat has been diagnosed. The first step in treatment will almost always be an antibiotic prescribed by a doctor. This is because it’s caused by a bacteria that needs to be handled. Which antibiotic that is prescribed will vary depending on the person. It’s very possible for people to react badly or have allergies to specific antibiotics.
In addition to a person getting antibiotics, there’s many things they can do at home to assist in making things easier on themselves. Warm liquids like tea or heated water with citrus can be very soothing. Alternatively, drinking very cold drinks can help to numb a painful throat. People can also take pain relievers they get over the counter.
Complications of Strep Throat
Typically, strep throat isn’t a huge concern. It will last approximately a week after treatment is received. However, if it’s not treated, there is a number of other issues can occur because of it.
Ear infections are very common for people who don’t treat their strep throat. Others may get sinusitis. Some of the more exotic issues which can occur include:
- Scarlet Fever
- Peritonsillar Abscess
- Guttate Psoriasis
- Mastoiditis
- Poststreptococcal Glomerulonephritis
