Strep Throat Causes

Strep throat is a condition marked by swelling of the throat or the tonsil. The conditions, strep throat and sore throat are often confused with each other. However, it should be noted that a sore throat can be caused due to viral as well as bacterial infection however, a strep throat is caused due to bacterial infection. Strep throat is one of the causes of a sore throat and is more severe than a sore throat.

Causes of Strep Throat

Strep throat is a condition caused due to bacterial infection. Group A Streptococcus (GAS) bacteria cause strep throat, and Streptococcus pyogenes is the most common bacteria causing strep throat. Group C and G can also cause strep throat in people. The streptococci bacteria are found everywhere; but, not all of them cause disease always. Only when a person comes in contact with bodily fluids of an infected person, he contracts the disease. Having a weak immune system, specially in case of children, older people and those suffering from HIV/AIDS are at a higher risk of contracting the disease. Secondly, smoking and alcoholism also increase a person's risk of getting this bacterial infection. Strep throat is contagious; i.e., it can spread from one person to other by coming in contact with the droplets of bodily fluids (while sneezing, coughing, etc.) or even by using sharing of articles of personal use.

Strep Throat Symptoms

The symptoms of a strep throat are similar to that of a sore throat. Inflammation in the throat or swelling of tonsils is the prominent symptom of this condition. Along with these, the following symptoms are also observed in children and adults suffering from this condition:

• Red, white, yellow patches on tonsils
• Swollen tonsils
• Difficult in swallowing
• Swollen lymph nodes / glands
• Headache
• Rash
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Loss of appetite
• Fatigue

You must have observed that these symptoms are also observed in case of sore throat. Therefore, if any of these symptoms are observed, one should consult the doctor immediately to get the condition diagnosed. It should also be noted that viral as well as bacterial sore throat is contagious and hence, one should stay away from person showing any of these symptoms. Babies and children should be kept away from people having symptoms of strep throat.

Strep Throat Treatment

As mentioned above, it is essential to identify whether the symptoms are caused due to strep throat (bacterial infection) or sore throat (viral infection). As strep throat is a bacterial infection, it is treated with the help of antibiotics. Antibiotics such as penicillin, cephalexin, erythromycin or amoxicillin are the most effective medications used to treat antibiotics. It should be noted that antibiotics are not effective against viral infections and hence, sore throat caused due to viral infection cannot be cured by antibiotics. You should remember that strep throat is contagious as long as the symptoms are present. Taking antibiotics can help in quick recovery from the infection and can also help in treating any rare conditions that may arise from the bacterial infection. Although the symptoms may subside within a couple of days, it is recommended that you should complete the entire course of antibiotics.

Remember that maintaining cleanliness and hygiene can help in prevention of bacterial and viral infection. Secondly, sharing of clothes and other personal articles should be discouraged. At the same time, you should consult the doctor on the appearance of the slightest of symptoms and get the condition treated immediately. Take care!