Signs of Strep Throat

Strep throat is caused by bacterial Group A streptococcal infection, which affects the pharynx. In medical terms, it is also called streptococcal pharyngitis. Though anyone can get affected by sore throat, it is mostly seen in children.

It is very contagious, as the streptococcal bacterium is found in the nose and throat of the infected person, it can spread through the air whenever a person coughs or sneezes. It can easily spread in crowded places and an untreated person can spread the bacteria up to 3 weeks. Given below is a list of symptoms and signs of strep throat in adults as well as children.

Symptoms

Early signs are mild, but if not treated, it furthers the growth of bacteria. A person may suffer from all or some of the signs given below.

• Continuous pain in the throat
• Pain and discomfort while swallowing
• Swollen lymph nodes or tonsils
• Red spots at the back of throat
• High fever
• Body pain
• Gray or white coating on the tonsils
• Cough
• Nausea
• Chills
• Headache
• Decreased appetite
• Nasal congestion or mucus discharge
• Ear pain
• Dull and tired feeling

Treatment Options

As soon as you notice any of the above signs, you must immediately visit a doctor. Doctor will examine your throat and take a rapid strep test, which can determine bacterial presence. In some cases, throat culture will also be taken for accurate diagnosis. In most cases, antibiotics are prescribed by the doctor. Antibiotics like penicillin, cephalexin, or amoxicillin are highly effective when taken in 48 to 72 hours after the symptoms begin. After giving antibiotics, the spread of the bacteria stops within 24 hours and makes the person noncontagious. The antibiotics not only minimize the risk of bacteria spreading to other parts of the body, but also help to curb other serious complications. Anesthetic throat sprays are also given to help reduce the pain and irritation. However, all the medications must be taken under the guidance of a doctor.

Home Remedies

When you notice some of the warning signs, giving antibiotics will not be a good option. In such cases, availing some of the home remedies given below can certainly decrease the severity of the symptoms.

Salt Water Gargle
Adding a teaspoon of salt to warm water and gargling with this solution can certainly provide the much-needed relief. Do this for about four to five times a day. The salt curbs the further growth of bacteria.

Garlic
Garlic is rich in antibacterial and antifungal properties. Chewing and swallowing three - four cloves of garlic with a spoon of honey, can be beneficial. It is one of the effective remedies.

Milk and Turmeric
Add a pinch of turmeric to a warm glass of milk, also add sugar for taste. Drink this milk after meals everyday. This is the most effective and traditional method. It will help to pacify strep throat and related symptoms.

Apart from this, one must follow a balanced diet to strengthen the immunity of the body. Also maintain utmost hygiene by washing hands with soaps or sanitizers, especially if one is in contact with people suffering from cough and other contagious diseases. Leaving this condition untreated can lead to severe health complications, hence get in check with the signs for an early treatment.