Strep Throat
By: Marcy Madrid, MMH
Updated: September 2, 2011
Strep throat is something we've all heard about, but when you or a family member gets it, you may wonder what exactly causes it?
Strep throat is a bacterial throat infection that can make your throat feel sore and scratchy. Some symptoms include:
White or gray patches on the back of the throat.
A red throat and red or inflamed tonsils.
A "strawberry tongue"
Bad breath
Throat pain
Difficulty swallowing
Fever
Headache
Rash
Fatigue.
You may even experience stomachache and vomiting, especially in younger children.
If you or your child has signs or symptoms of strep throat, see your doctor for prompt treatment.
It's important to identify strep throat for a number of reasons. If untreated, strep throat can sometimes cause complications. It can cause kidney issues, rheumatic fever, and can also affect your heart valve if it becomes severe. It's extremely important that if you get an antibiotic, continue taking it for the full 14 days. But continue taking the antibiotic.
It's also very important that after you finish your antibiotic series replace your toothbrush so you don't reinfect yourself.
Streptococcal bacteria are highly contagious. Be sure to wash or sanitize your hands regularly, especially when around sick people or in places where large groups gather; cover your mouth when you cough or sneeze; and don't share personal hygiene items, eating utensils, food or drinks with others
Strep throat is a bacterial throat infection that can make your throat feel sore and scratchy. Some symptoms include:
White or gray patches on the back of the throat.
A red throat and red or inflamed tonsils.
A "strawberry tongue"
Bad breath
Throat pain
Difficulty swallowing
Fever
Headache
Rash
Fatigue.
You may even experience stomachache and vomiting, especially in younger children.
If you or your child has signs or symptoms of strep throat, see your doctor for prompt treatment.
It's important to identify strep throat for a number of reasons. If untreated, strep throat can sometimes cause complications. It can cause kidney issues, rheumatic fever, and can also affect your heart valve if it becomes severe. It's extremely important that if you get an antibiotic, continue taking it for the full 14 days. But continue taking the antibiotic.
It's also very important that after you finish your antibiotic series replace your toothbrush so you don't reinfect yourself.
Streptococcal bacteria are highly contagious. Be sure to wash or sanitize your hands regularly, especially when around sick people or in places where large groups gather; cover your mouth when you cough or sneeze; and don't share personal hygiene items, eating utensils, food or drinks with others
