STREP THROAT

The common cause of bacterial throat infection, especially in Children caused by group A streptococcus, often presents with fever, throat pain, throat swelling, redness, white spots, difficulty swallowing, enlarged lymph nodes around the neck, headaches, and body aches. Strep throat is contagious and spread by coughing/sneezing/kissing/sharing drinks; treatment usually includes antibiotics. Complications of strep throat infection include but are not limited to Tonsilitis, Rheumatic fever, which affects heart valves and the nervous system, Scarlet fever, which causes fever and rash, and Joint arthritis.

Symptoms of Strep Throat

Symptoms of Strep Throat are similar to those of a cold. It starts with a sore throat, cough, hoarseness, and feeling weak. The body will start producing pus to protect itself. You might notice that your throat gets swollen, which hurts if you swallow. A virus usually causes strep throat. There are some types of viruses that are very contagious. If you have the type of strep throat, you will need to see your doctor immediately. You will need to tell your doctor what kind of virus you have. If you have strep throat, your doctor will prescribe antibiotics to help fight the bacteria.

The Antibiotic Treatment

You will usually have to take antibiotics for 10 days. After taking the antibiotics, you will have to go back to see your doctor again for a follow-up visit. The doctor will test you to make sure that the infection is gone. You should be able to go back to work after the antibiotics are finished. If your throat still hurts, you can ask your doctor if he can give you another round of antibiotics.

Strep Throat Prevention

You will usually get a prescription for penicillin or amoxicillin. It would help if you took your antibiotic tablets every eight hours. It is essential to drink plenty of water while you are taking the antibiotic. It would help if you ate a light diet to avoid stomach upset. Some people feel better-having food to chew on while taking antibiotics. It is essential to follow your doctor’s directions carefully. You may need to stay home from school or work for at least 10 days. It is essential to finish all your antibiotics, even if you feel better after only five days. The longer you take antibiotics, the more likely you will suffer side effects.

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