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Strep Throat Symptoms And Treatment

Strep throat is an ailment which affects the pharynx. It is a condition where the mucous membranes located in your pharynx are infected. There are other terms used to refer to this ailment such as streptococcal pharyngitis and streptococcal sore throat.

Symptoms of strep throat
There are several symptoms that you will notice during the early stages of strep throat. The most common symptom that a person will experience when they have strep throat is having a sore throat.

Usually after an individual notices that he or she has a sore throat, related symptoms like reddening of the tonsils and a difficulty in swallowing and eating is seen. Aside from tonsil-related symptoms, fever, upset stomach and headaches may also be experienced. Swollen lymph glands, nausea, a bright red tongue and muscle aches are also included on the symptoms that a person might experience if he or she has strep throat. During the stages when the patient notices that there is pain in the throat area, citrus drinks like orange juice should not be consumed because it will irritate the throat.

Treatment for strep throat
Treatment is usually done in the form of antibiotics. Antibiotics are said to be effective means to minimize chances of transmission and reduce complications. Penicillin is usually used for antibiotic treatment of strep throat. It is recommended to take penicillin orally for ten days or to have a one-time intramuscular injection of penicillin G. For patients that have an allergic reaction to penicillin, erythromycin could be used. Other antibiotics that can be used to treat strep throat are amoxicillin, clindamycin and oral cephalosporins.

During the medication process it is common for patients to notice that the antibiotics are successful early on in the course, but that does not mean that you should stop taking antibiotics. Be sure that the full medication period is completed.

Aside from antibiotics, taking nonprescription medicines like ibuprofen and paracetamol can be used to help relieve throat pain and reduce fever. Rest is also an important factor. Gargling warm water with ¼ teaspoon of salt and a warm cup of plain tea is also an effective way to provide relief.

This ailment is contagious and can be transmitted by having close contact with an infected person. There are instances wherein a person suffering from strep throat touches household items after sneezing, and that can transmit the bacteria. If you know that a person in your household is experiencing symptoms of strep throat, consult with a qualified health professional immediately.

{ 1 comment… add one }
  • betty May 19, 2011, 11:44 am

    For the past 10 days i”ve had back of the neck pain, it has traveled to the back of my head. I was just diagnosed with strepp throat, my doctor was puzzled since i’ve had no other symptoms. Just lost a dear friend with the same symptoms, the infection got into her bloodstream she was diagnosed too late.

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