Strep throat is a fairly common issue in mostly children, but adults are just as susceptible. Throats can be subject to many issues; some needing extreme methods to heal these problems. Strep throat is basically an infection within the throat, which was caused by group A streptococci bacteria. Strep throat often results in the throat and tonsils swelling up. As previously mentioned, strep throat is commonly a childhood ailment and is highly contagious, spreading easily by coughing, sneezing, drinking off contaminated beverage containers or sharing food with someone who has it. It actually can be difficult to determine if you or your child has strep throat. But there are some additional symptoms you can spot that can suggest it is in fact strep throat you or your loved one is suffering from.
Strep throat symptoms generally will appear anywhere between one and five days after exposure. Symptoms include the following:
– Extremely sore throat
– Pain concentrated in the throat area
– Difficulty swallowing
– High fevers
– Headaches
– White/yellow spots coating the throat and tonsils
– Tender and swollen lumps on either side of the neck
– Abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting
Strep throat is often tricky to determine as it is very similar to a sore throat which often marks the beginning of a common cold. If you suspect strep throat, it is important you seek medical assistance as soon as possible for diagnosis and proper treatment. More than likely, children picked up the illness from school or day care. Often, the doctor will perform a rapid strep throat test and/or throat culture to formally diagnose the bacterial infection. In most cases, strep throat is treated with antibiotics, but additional or other methods best determined by your doctor are done. It is crucial to keep the infected away from public contact, school or work for at least 24 hours during the initial treatment of antibiotics to avoid spreading strep throat to others.
On a side note, we feel it is important to know that the same bacterium that evolves strep throat is the same strand that contributes to scarlet fever. If scarlet fever develops, you will notice skin rash emerge, overwhelming the neck and chest initially, but it will eventually consume the whole body if left untreated. The rash has a rough-like texture and in some cases children already inflicted with strep throat can experience scarlet fever. It is important to let your doctor know if a rash is coincides.
Tonsillitis is often referred to interchangeability with strep throat, but is a separate issue. Strep throat is a cause of tonsillitis. With strep throat, the sore throat is often more severe and long lasting. Tonsillitis is a painful inflammation or infection of the tonsils. Folks that suffer from tonsillitis excessively often will require getting their tonsils removed. At, ENT Specialists we are the leading experts in the ears, nose, and throat. We can assist you in deciphering the diagnosis with throat ailments and evaluate the most optimal course of action. If surgery is needed, there is no one better to assist you. Call us today to schedule your appointment!
