Strep throat is a common bacterial infection caused by Group A Streptococcus (GAS) bacteria. This infection targets the throat and tonsils, causing inflammation and a sudden, painful sore throat. While highly contagious, strep throat is easily treated with antibiotics. However, mismanagement can lead to severe health complications and widespread transmission. Understanding the actions to avoid is important for recovery.
Mistakes Related to Medical Treatment
One of the most serious errors is discontinuing the prescribed course of antibiotics simply because symptoms begin to improve. Although patients often start to feel better within one to two days of beginning treatment, the bacteria may still be present in the throat. Stopping treatment early allows the surviving bacteria to multiply and potentially leads to a relapse of the infection.
Completing the full 10-day antibiotic regimen is necessary to prevent serious complications. Incomplete treatment increases the risk of developing acute rheumatic fever, which can cause permanent damage to the heart valves. It also risks post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis, a complication that affects the kidneys.
Do not attempt to self-diagnose strep throat based on symptoms alone, as most sore throats are caused by viruses and do not require antibiotics. A healthcare provider must perform a rapid strep test or throat culture to confirm the presence of Group A Streptococcus. Using antibiotics unnecessarily contributes to antibiotic resistance and exposes the body to side effects.
Do not use leftover antibiotics or medication prescribed for another person. These medications may not be the correct type, dosage, or duration needed to eradicate Group A Streptococcus. Using an inappropriate or incomplete dose may fail to clear the infection and still allow complications like rheumatic fever to develop.
Actions That Spread Infection
Avoid returning to work, school, or public settings prematurely. Strep throat is highly contagious and spreads easily through respiratory droplets. An infected person remains contagious until they have been on prescribed antibiotics for a minimum of 24 hours and are fever-free. Returning earlier risks transmitting the bacteria to others.
It is important not to share any items that come into contact with the mouth or nose, such as eating utensils, drinking cups, or food. The bacteria can live on these surfaces, and sharing them is a direct route for transmission. You should also avoid close face-to-face contact, including kissing, until you are well into the antibiotic course and no longer contagious.
Neglecting hand hygiene facilitates transmission. The bacteria spread when a person touches a contaminated surface and then touches their mouth or nose. Frequent and thorough hand washing, especially after coughing or sneezing, is a simple, effective barrier against spreading the infection. Also, clean household items, such as the toothbrush used while sick, as they may harbor bacteria and lead to re-infection or spread.
Habits That Worsen Symptoms
Do not consume foods and beverages that are highly acidic, spicy, or have a rough texture, as these choices aggravate inflamed throat tissue. Acidic items, such as citrus fruits and tomatoes, cause a burning sensation and increased irritation. Hard or crunchy foods, like chips and crackers, should also be avoided because their rough edges can physically scratch the painful throat when swallowing.
It is also advisable not to consume liquids that are extremely hot or extremely cold, which can shock the sensitive throat lining. While cool items like popsicles can be soothing, excessively hot beverages may increase inflammation. Lukewarm or room-temperature liquids are generally better tolerated and help maintain comfort.
Do not smoke or expose yourself to secondhand smoke, as chemical irritants exacerbate inflammation and pain. Smoke dries out the mucous membranes, prolonging discomfort. Finally, do not strain your voice by talking excessively or shouting, as the vocal cords and surrounding tissues need rest to recover from the bacterial infection.