Strep throat is a bacterial infection of the throat and tonsils caused by Group A Streptococcus (S. pyogenes). Home remedies cannot cure this infection; it requires prescription antibiotic treatment to eradicate the bacteria completely. Only a full course of antibiotics can eliminate the bacterial threat and prevent serious secondary complications.
Why Immediate Medical Diagnosis Is Essential
An untreated strep infection carries a significant risk of severe complications affecting other body systems. The most concerning is acute rheumatic fever, an inflammatory condition that can damage the heart valves, joints, nervous system, and skin. Antibiotic therapy is highly effective at preventing rheumatic fever, even if started up to nine days after symptom onset.
Another serious complication is post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis, which involves kidney inflammation. Promptly eliminating the bacteria also reduces the risk of localized infections, such as abscesses around the tonsils or middle ear infections. Seeking professional care is the only way to differentiate a bacterial strep infection from a common viral sore throat, since viruses do not respond to antibiotics.
A healthcare provider will perform a diagnostic test to confirm the presence of Group A Streptococcus. This usually begins with a rapid strep test, which involves swabbing the throat and provides results in about 10 to 20 minutes. If the rapid test is negative, the sample may be sent for a throat culture, which is more accurate but takes 24 to 48 hours. This diagnostic process ensures antibiotics are prescribed only when necessary, which is crucial for preventing antibiotic resistance.
Safe Home Strategies for Managing Symptoms
While antibiotics eliminate the bacteria, certain home strategies can help manage painful symptoms. Staying hydrated is primary, as a sore throat makes swallowing difficult and increases the risk of dehydration. Soothing liquids like warm water, broth, or decaffeinated tea help keep the throat moist, easing swallowing discomfort.
Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, are effective for reducing fever and throat pain. Follow dosage instructions precisely and use these medications until symptoms subside, often within the first couple of days of starting antibiotics. For adults and older children, gargling with a warm saltwater solution can temporarily relieve throat inflammation. This solution is made by mixing about a quarter teaspoon of salt into eight ounces of warm water.
Consuming soft, easy-to-swallow foods like mashed potatoes, yogurt, or applesauce prevents further irritation to the inflamed throat. Cold items, such as ice pops or sherbet, also provide a numbing, soothing effect. Honey can be mixed into warm drinks to coat the throat and reduce inflammation, but never give it to children under 12 months due to the risk of infant botulism.
Preventing Transmission and Reinfection
Strep throat is highly contagious and spreads through respiratory droplets from coughing or sneezing. The infected person must remain home from work or school until they have been on the prescribed antibiotic for at least 24 hours and their fever has resolved. This 24-hour period is the standard benchmark for when contagiousness significantly decreases.
Practicing hand hygiene is one of the most effective ways to prevent the spread of the bacteria within the household. Frequent washing with soap and water for at least 20 seconds is necessary, especially after coughing or before eating. Also, avoid sharing personal items, such as drinking glasses, eating utensils, or towels, with the infected individual.
Once the patient has been on antibiotics for 24 hours, the toothbrush should be discarded and replaced to prevent reinfection from residual bacteria. Commonly touched surfaces, like doorknobs and counters, should be cleaned with disinfectant. Covering the mouth and nose with a tissue or the elbow when coughing or sneezing further limits the release of infectious droplets.