What is Strep throat?

It is a throat infection caused by bacteria. The infection makes your throat feel scratchy and sore. But not all cases of sore throats are caused due to strep throat. It is very important to identify it as soon as possible because if left without treatment, it may even lead to complications like rheumatic fever and inflammation of the kidney.

The ages 5 to 15 are most at risk but strep throat may happen to anybody.

Causes

• Streptococcus pyogenes are the bacteria that cause strep throat.
• The bacteria are very contagious and can spread by the means of airborne droplets produced when an infected person sneezes or coughs. They can also be transmitted by sharing of food and drinks.
• Direct or indirect touch can also cause the spread of the bacteria.

Symptoms

• Difficulty in swallowing
• Throat pain
• Reddish and swollen tonsils which can sometimes have streaks of pus or white patches.
• Minute red spots on the hard and or soft palate.
• Tender and swollen lymph nodes in the neck
• Headache
• Fever
• Rash
• Stomachache
• Fatigue

Treatments

• Antibiotics like penicillin and amoxicillin are prescribed by the doctor.
• The antibiotics also help reduce the duration of the disease.
• Medications that relive pain and fever will be prescribed.
• With the medications, the symptoms will subside within a day or two but it is important to complete the whole course of medication so as to avoid any complications.

Prevention

• It is important to keep your hands clean by washing them regularly and the use of hand sanitizer.
• Children should be taught to cover their mouths when they sneeze or cough.
• Never share personal items. Wash the utensils used by the infected person in warm soapy water.

What you can expect when you visit our clinics

1. Stop by our front desk to visit a certified Nurse Practitioner or Physician Assistant. No appointment is required.
2. Your medical practitioner will examine your medical background, go over your medical issues, perform an examination and supply you with an individualized plan for treatment. This might consist of non-prescription items or a medical prescription.
3. Towards the end of your visit to our clinic, your medical attendant will give you an overview, an invoice and some instructional material may be given.
4. The overview of your clinic visit can be forwarded to your primary health care provider with your authorization.