Strep throat is a common bacterial infection that affects the throat and tonsils, caused by the bacterium Streptococcus pyogenes, also known as Group A Streptococcus. This infection leads to inflammation and pain in the throat. Unlike viral sore throats, strep throat requires medical intervention because antibiotics are the standard treatment to eliminate the bacteria.
Typical Recovery Timeline
Individuals typically experience significant improvement in strep throat symptoms within 24 to 48 hours after starting antibiotic treatment. Common symptoms like a severe sore throat, fever, and difficulty swallowing begin to subside. The fever often resolves first, followed by a gradual reduction in throat pain and an increase in energy levels, with full symptom resolution taking 3 to 7 days. Rest, adequate hydration, and over-the-counter pain relievers can help manage discomfort during this recovery period. It is important to continue with prescribed antibiotics even as symptoms improve to fully eliminate the bacteria.
When You Are No Longer Contagious
A person with strep throat typically stops being contagious within 12 to 24 hours after starting antibiotic treatment. Individuals, including children, can return to school or other public settings once they have completed a full 24 hours of antibiotics and are fever-free. Even if some mild symptoms persist, the risk of spreading the bacteria significantly diminishes after this initial period. Untreated strep throat, however, can remain contagious for several weeks.
Importance of Completing Treatment
It is important to complete the entire prescribed course of antibiotics for strep throat, even if symptoms disappear quickly. Stopping treatment early can allow remaining bacteria to multiply, causing the infection to return. Incomplete treatment also increases the risk of bacteria developing antibiotic resistance, making future infections harder to treat.
Finishing the full course of antibiotics prevents serious complications, such as rheumatic fever, which can damage the heart and joints. Other possible complications include kidney inflammation, known as post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis, and the formation of abscesses around the tonsils. The full 10-day antibiotic regimen is designed to eliminate the bacteria and prevent these long-term health issues.
What to Do if Symptoms Don’t Improve
If strep throat symptoms do not improve within 48 hours of starting antibiotics, or if they worsen, contact a healthcare provider. Persistent symptoms could indicate various issues, such as a misdiagnosis, antibiotic resistance, or a different type of infection, like a viral illness that antibiotics cannot treat. The doctor can re-evaluate the condition and determine if a change in medication or further testing is necessary.
Seek immediate medical attention for difficulty breathing or swallowing, a rash, increased swelling, or severe pain. These symptoms might suggest the infection is not responding as expected or that complications are developing. Seeking prompt medical advice ensures appropriate management and helps prevent more serious health problems.