You have that feeling in the back of your throat. It is just a little tickle now, but it feels like it could become extremely sore soon. You begin dreading that it will be difficult to swallow, even to sleep because of the pain. However, this sore throat does not mean you have strep throat.
Find out what strep throat is, who is most affected, and how to avoid it:
What is Strep Throat?
Strep throat, Streptococcal-Pharyngitis, Streptococcal-Tonsillitis or Streptococcal sore throat is a bacterial infection that targets the back of the throat and tonsils. The bacterium is known as streptococcal or strep bacteria, hence the name strep throat.
Typically, the bacterial infection occurs in the throat first before other cold symptoms appear. You may not have coughing, sneezing, runny or stuffy nose with strep at first; however, these symptoms generally appear as the body tries to fit the bacterial infection.
Who is Affected
Strep throat is most common in children and teens between the ages of five and 15. Younger children and adults can also be exposed to the bacterial infection because it spreads from person to person.
Common Causes
The strep A strain of bacteria lives in our noses. It can be spread through sneezing and coughing. When someone else comes into contact with it the strain can become virulent. Individuals may have a cold first and come into contact with someone carrying the strep bacterial strain, which leads to infection. They do not need to have a cold to be infected. It can also happen through an open sore in the mouth.
Signs and Symptoms of strep throat:
A few common signs and symptoms include:
- A sudden, severe sore throat or pain near the tonsils
- Pain when you swallow and in the back of the throat
- Fever over 101 °F
- Swollen tonsils/throat and lymph nodes
- White or yellow spots in the bright red throat
- Stomach Problem/dissention problems
- Belly Pain
- Red skin rash
- Pain when swallowing
A person may suffer from a few or all of these symptoms when they have strep. It depends on the virulence of the strain and whether it is caught and treated early enough.
How to Avoid It and When Strep Throat Occurs
Autumn, winter, and spring seasons are most common for bacterial infections. Although studies show more cases appear in spring. To avoid catching strep, you should always wash your hands, use antibacterial liquid, and clean any surface you might touch. Avoid touching public surfaces, such as handrails, doorknobs, grocery carts, and other areas, with your bare hands. If you need to visit the doctor take precautions such as wearing a mask in case someone else might be coughing and spreading germs. Good hygiene can help you avoid strep. If someone you know is feeling ill clean the house, keep the person isolated, and do not allow their fluids to come into contact with you.
Treatment
Penicillin, Amoxicillin, and other related steroid medications can help reduce inflammation and fight fever. Visit your local Coastal Urgent Care if you notice any signs or symptoms.