While strep throat cases usually peak in the fall and early spring months, contractions can take place year-round, especially due to the highly contagious nature of the illness. Here’s what you need to know about strep throat symptoms, treatment, and methods of prevention!

What is Strep Throat?

Strep throat is a bacterial infection of the throat caused by group A streptococcus bacteria. It is characterized by a sore throat, fever, swollen lymph nodes, and sometimes a rash. Strep throat is highly contagious and can spread through contact with saliva or mucus from an infected person. Common strep throat symptoms include:

• Swollen lymph nodes
• Headache and fever
• Chills and muscle aches
• Fatigue
• Loss of appetite
• Red, swollen tonsils
• White or yellow spots on the tonsils, sometimes with pus

Diagnosis and General Treatment

Strep throat is diagnosed by performing a throat culture (throat swab) or a rapid strep test. A throat culture is the most accurate way to diagnose strep throat, but it can take 24-48 hours for results to come back. A rapid strep test is a quicker way to diagnose strep throat, but usually is not as accurate as a throat culture.

Strep throat is treated with antibiotics, the most common of which is penicillin. As a rule, Antibiotics should be taken for the full course of treatment, even if symptoms start to improve before the course is over. With this in mind, let’s examine some of the over-the-counter treatments and home remedies to help strep throat symptoms.

Home and Over-The-Counter Strep Remedies

Over-The-Counter Treatments

• Fever reducers, such as Ibuprofen or Tylenol.
• Pain relievers, such as Advil and Motrin.
• Salt water and warm water rinse.
• Throat coating medications and sprays.

Home Remedies

• Honey, which has antibacterial infection fighting properties.
• Echinacea, a natural herb that can help boost the immune system.
• Garlic, which has natural antibiotic properties.
• Hydrating with water and electrolyte-boosting drinks.

Strep Throat Prevention Methods

Strep throat is miserable, and prevention is the key to avoidance! There are a few best practices you can implement to help prevent strep throat, including:

• Washing your hands frequently with soap and water.
• Avoiding close contact with people who are sick.
• Covering your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze.
• Getting vaccinated against the flu and pneumonia.

If you are experiencing strep throat symptoms, contact your nearest Next Level Urgent Care as soon as possible. Strep throat that goes untreated can lead to serious complications, such as rheumatic fever.