A Guide to Strep Throat

Strep Throat or “Pharyngitis” is caused by a specific bacteria, Group A Streptococcus. It is spread person to person by coughing, touching contaminated objects and rarely by pets. About 5-10% of adults carry Strep bacteria around in their nose and throat without being sick, called a “carrier state”. They spread it to others and don’t get the illness themselves. Strep throat rarely occurs before age 2 years. Infants get strep ear infections instead.

Symptoms:

Most people get a sore throat that hurts when they swallow. Fever is common (99 to 103 degrees). Tonsils, if present, can swell to triple their size, become red and have pus on them. A few people get a rash with strep (small red splotches that blanch when pressure applied). This is called “Scarlet fever” or “Scarlatina”.

Treatment:

Strep infections require antibiotics to control the infection. 100% of strep is sensative to Penicillin, but Amoxicillin gets higher amounts into the tissues that are infected. When allergic to amoxicillin, other antibiotics are used. It is important to take all the antibiotics to be sure the infection is completely treated, not just until the person “feels better”. Serious complications can occur if Strep is not treated completely. They include Rheumatic Heart Disease (Heart Damage), Nephritis (Kidney damage) and abscesses. Most people should get new toothbrushes to avoid continued spread of the Strep Bacteria.

Because Strep is Contagious, take 2-3 doses of antibiotic before being around other persons. If other family members get sick, call the office and we’ll treat them also to prevent the spread of this sometimes dangerous illness.

If you have additional questions about strep throat infections, you can contact the office at:

Info@Laramiekids.com

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A Guide to Strep Throat

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