Strep throat is a bacterial infection caused by "Group A Streptococcus," which affects adults, but is most common in children between the ages of 5 to 15. It is important to know how to recognize the symptoms. Strep throat can sometimes be mistaken for a viral sore throat. They both share some of the same symptoms. Strep throat should be treated promptly by a physician, who will then run a "Rapid Strep Test" (RST). If it is partly treated or left untreated it may lead to other complications such as rheumatic fever, which can cause damage to the heart valves. A viral sore throat, however, can be treating effectively with self-care at home.
Recognizing Strep Throat Symptoms
Some of the most common symptoms of strep throat include:
- sore throat lasting for 3 to 4 days
- difficulty swallowing
- red swollen tonsils
- fever
- swollen or tender neck glands
- white patches on the tonsils or in the throat
- nausea
- headache
The Diagnoses of Strep Throat
When there are symptoms indicating strep throat, a doctor will perform a "Rapid strep test." This is done by using a cotton swab to collect some of the fluids that are at the back of the throat. The test typically takes at least 5 minutes. Sometimes it may be necessary to take another fluid sample for a culture, which will yield results in 1-2 days. If the result comes back positive for a bacterial infection, it will be treated with antibiotics such as penicillin or amoxicillin. Antibiotics should always be completely taken even if the symptoms are gone. It is recommended that anyone being treated for strep throat should stay home until they have been on medication for 24 hours.
Treating Viral Sore Throat With Home Remedies
If the sore throat is caused by a viral infection, there is no need for antibiotics. Instead, all that is needed is some effective home remedies and self-care. Some basic things that can be done to relieve sore throat symptoms include:
- Gargle with 1/4 tsp. salt mixed with 1/2 cup of warm water. This can be done every 2 hours.
- Consume at least 6 to 8 glasses of water daily.
- Ease the discomfort of the sore throat by sucking on a menthol candy.
Using Other Remedies For Sore Throat
1. Mix 1 tbsp. of lemon juice with 1 tbsp. of warm honey. Drink this 2-3 times daily until the symptoms subside.
2. Gargle with 1 tsp. of full strength hydrogen peroxide. Gargle for at least 1-2 minutes or until it becomes frothy, then spit it out and rinse the mouth.
3. Use apple cider vinegar to soothe a sore throat. Dilute 1 tsp. of apple cider vinegar with 1 tbsp. of water. Gargle for a minute, then spit the vinegar out. Rinse out the mouth with water thoroughly. Use this simple home remedy until the sore throat is completely healed.
Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is for educational purposes only and should not be used for diagnosis or to guide treatment without the opinion of a health professional. Any reader who is concerned about his or her health should contact a doctor for advice.
References:
Rochester.edu. " Sore Throat " (accessed September 12, 2010).
Abcnews.go.com. "What You Should Do If You Think Your Sore Throat Could Mean Strep Throat" (accessed September 13, 2010).
Andrea Rowe - Andrea Rowe started her writing career as a freelance writer in July, 2008. She initially started writing how-to articles, but since then ...
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