Strep throat does not directly cause high blood pressure. However, an indirect connection can occur through a rare but serious complication. This involves the body’s immune response to the strep infection affecting other organs.
Strep Throat: A Brief Overview
Strep throat is a common bacterial infection affecting the throat and tonsils. It is caused by Streptococcus pyogenes, also known as Group A Streptococcus (GAS) bacteria.
Common symptoms include a sudden sore throat, pain when swallowing, and fever. The tonsils may appear red and swollen, sometimes with white patches. Swollen lymph nodes in the neck, headache, and nausea or vomiting can also occur.
Understanding the Indirect Connection
While the Streptococcus bacteria itself does not directly influence blood pressure, the body’s immune system can, in rare instances, trigger a secondary condition. This occurs when the immune response, initiated to fight the infection, mistakenly targets healthy tissues. The specific complication associated with strep throat that can lead to changes in blood pressure is Post-Streptococcal Glomerulonephritis (PSGN).
PSGN is a kidney disease that develops as a delayed reaction to a strep infection. The kidneys play a fundamental role in maintaining healthy blood pressure by filtering waste and excess fluid from the blood. When PSGN affects these organs, their ability to perform this function can be compromised, potentially leading to elevated blood pressure.
Post-Streptococcal Glomerulonephritis: The Link to Blood Pressure
Post-Streptococcal Glomerulonephritis (PSGN) is an inflammatory condition impacting the kidneys’ filtering units, called glomeruli. It develops as a delayed immune reaction to an earlier strep infection. The immune system produces antibodies that can inadvertently attack the glomeruli, causing inflammation and damage.
This damage impairs the kidneys’ ability to efficiently filter waste products and excess fluid from the bloodstream. As a result, fluid and sodium can accumulate in the body, leading to an increase in overall blood volume. This increased blood volume directly contributes to the development of high blood pressure.
Symptoms of PSGN often point to kidney issues and can include dark, reddish-brown urine and decreased urine output. Swelling, particularly around the eyes, and in the hands and feet, is a common symptom due to fluid retention. High blood pressure is a frequent observation in individuals with PSGN. Other symptoms can include fatigue, headaches, and abdominal pain.
Preventing Complications and When to Seek Care
Preventing complications like Post-Streptococcal Glomerulonephritis (PSGN) involves the proper and timely treatment of strep throat. When diagnosed, complete the full course of antibiotics as prescribed, even if symptoms improve. Antibiotics help eliminate the Group A Streptococcus bacteria, reducing the risk of a harmful delayed reaction and significantly lowering the chance of PSGN developing.
If a person has recently had strep throat and develops new symptoms suggestive of PSGN, immediate medical attention is important. These symptoms can include swelling, dark or reddish-brown urine, or a noticeable decrease in urine output. New onset of headaches, fatigue, or any signs that might indicate high blood pressure should also prompt a visit to a healthcare professional.