Strep throat is a common bacterial infection that impacts the throat and tonsil areas. Although many people have heard the term, the details of this infection are often not widely understood.
Causes and Diagnosis
Strep throat is caused by the streptococcal bacteria, of which there are several kinds. Although some individuals with sore throats may believe that they have strep throat, it can only be identified with a throat swab and/or a laboratory test. A “rapid strep test” can often be performed right in the physician’s office. If this test is positive, treatment is indicated. If it is negative, a throat culture is often sent out to a laboratory for confirmation since the rapid tests can sometimes show “false negatives”. The laboratory will then provide information regarding what antibiotic medications will be effective against this particular strain of bacteria.
Symptoms
Strep throat is often characterized by the sudden onset of a very sore throat with significant difficulty swallowing (also known as dysphagia). Fever over 101 degrees F is common, as are swollen tonsils, swollen lymph nodes, and a very red throat which may or may not show white patches. Headache is common, although symptoms like abdominal pain and nausea and vomiting are more rare.
How Is It Passed From Person to Person?
Strep bacteria can be passed through sneezing, coughing, kissing, or even breathing. Respiratory droplets from the infected person enter the air and can then be breathed in by others. Proper coughing and sneezing techniques (doing so into the crook of your arm/elbow rather than into your hand or the air) can decrease the possibility of you passing on the illness to others.
Bear in mind that you can have strep and be contagious but be free of symptoms for up to five days, so practicing good hygiene is essential. If you sneeze into your hand or use a tissue, wash your hands thoroughly right away. Respiratory droplets left behind on faucets, doorknobs and other “high touch areas” can also infect others for a brief time until the bacteria die.
