Strep throat, a common bacterial infection, can cause significant discomfort in the throat. While a visual inspection of the throat can offer some clues, a definitive diagnosis requires medical confirmation. This infection, caused by group A Streptococcus bacteria, affects people of all ages, though it is most prevalent in children.
Visual Indicators of Strep Throat
Several visual signs may be apparent in a throat affected by strep. The throat and tonsils often appear red and swollen, indicating inflammation. White patches, spots, or streaks of pus on the tonsils are a distinctive feature. These markings result from the bacterial infection and help differentiate strep from a typical viral sore throat.
Less common visual indicators include tiny red spots, known as petechiae, on the soft or hard palate (roof of the mouth). These spots are caused by tiny capillaries bursting under the skin. Lymph nodes in the neck may also appear swollen and feel tender. These swollen nodes indicate the body’s immune system is responding to the infection.
Other Symptoms of Strep Throat
Beyond visible signs, strep throat presents other common symptoms. A sudden sore throat, often with pain when swallowing, is typical. Fever can begin quickly, often peaking on the second day. Chills and body aches are also common.
Headaches are a common complaint, and in younger children, nausea, vomiting, or stomach pain can occur. Some individuals with strep throat may also develop a rash, known as scarlet fever. This bright red rash covers much of the body, often feeling rough like sandpaper, and may appear one to two days after the initial symptoms.
Understanding Diagnosis and Treatment
Due to overlapping symptoms with viral infections, professional medical confirmation is necessary for an accurate strep throat diagnosis. A healthcare provider typically performs a rapid strep test by swabbing the back of the throat and tonsils. This test detects group A Streptococcus bacteria within minutes. If negative, a throat culture may be performed for confirmation; it is more accurate but takes 24-48 hours for results.
Once diagnosed, strep throat is treated with antibiotics, such as penicillin or amoxicillin. It is important to complete the entire 10-day course of antibiotics, even if symptoms improve within a few days. Stopping treatment early can lead to the bacteria remaining in the body, potentially causing a recurrence or more serious complications.
Untreated strep throat can lead to severe complications, such as rheumatic fever. Rheumatic fever is an inflammatory condition affecting the heart, joints, nervous system, and skin, potentially causing permanent heart valve damage. Other complications, though rare, can include kidney inflammation and abscesses around the tonsils. Prompt diagnosis and full antibiotic treatment help prevent these serious health issues.