Experiencing recurrent strep throat infections can be frustrating. This article explores the common reasons behind repeated episodes of this bacterial infection.
Understanding Strep Throat
Strep throat is a bacterial infection of the throat and tonsils caused by Streptococcus pyogenes, also known as Group A Streptococcus (GAS). Common indicators include a sore throat, often with difficulty swallowing, fever, and sometimes small red spots on the roof of the mouth.
Diagnosis typically involves a rapid strep test, which provides quick results. If the rapid test is negative but strep throat is still suspected, a throat culture may be performed. This culture takes longer but is more definitive in confirming the presence of the bacteria. Timely and accurate diagnosis is important for appropriate treatment and to prevent complications.
Reasons for Recurrent Infections
One common reason for repeated strep throat episodes is incomplete or inadequate treatment during a prior infection. Antibiotics eliminate the Streptococcus pyogenes bacteria. Stopping the antibiotic course early, even if symptoms improve, can leave some bacteria alive, leading to a resurgence of the infection.
Re-exposure to the bacteria is another frequent cause. Strep throat is highly contagious, spreading easily through respiratory droplets from coughing or sneezing. Environments with close contact, such as schools, daycare centers, or households, are common places for transmission. An individual can be reinfected shortly after recovering if they encounter the bacteria again.
Asymptomatic carriers also contribute to re-exposure within a household or community. These individuals carry the bacteria in their throat but show no symptoms. They can unknowingly transmit the bacteria to others, who then develop symptomatic infections.
Sometimes, what appears to be recurrent strep throat might actually be a different illness. Many viral infections, such as the common cold or influenza, can cause similar symptoms, including a sore throat and fever. If a viral illness is mistaken for strep, antibiotics will not be effective as they only treat bacterial infections. This can lead to a perceived “recurrence” if the initial illness was viral, or if a new viral infection occurs after a genuine strep infection.
Preventing Future Strep Throat Episodes
Practicing good hygiene reduces the risk of strep throat transmission. Frequent handwashing with soap and water, especially after coughing or sneezing and before eating, helps remove bacteria. An alcohol-based hand sanitizer can be an alternative when soap and water are not available.
Avoiding the sharing of personal items also prevents the spread of bacteria. Do not share eating utensils, drinking glasses, or other personal items that contact the mouth or nose. These items can harbor and transfer Streptococcus pyogenes.
Completing the full course of prescribed antibiotics is important. Even if symptoms improve within a few days, bacteria may still be present. Finishing the entire course ensures all bacteria are eliminated, reducing the likelihood of relapse or antibiotic resistance.
When recurrent strep throat is a persistent problem within a family, testing close contacts for the bacteria might be considered. If a family member is an asymptomatic carrier, treating them can help prevent the cycle of infection within the household.
For very frequent, documented strep throat infections that significantly impact a person’s health, a tonsillectomy might be discussed. This surgical procedure involves removing the tonsils. It is typically considered for individuals with a high number of confirmed strep infections over a specific period.
When to Consult a Doctor
Consult a doctor if strep throat symptoms persist or worsen after starting antibiotic treatment, especially if there is no improvement after 48 hours. This indicates the treatment may not be effective or another issue is present.
Seek medical attention for frequent recurrences of strep throat. If you or a family member experience multiple episodes within a short period, a doctor can help investigate the underlying reasons. They can assess for factors such as asymptomatic carriers in the household or consider other potential causes for the repeated symptoms.
Untreated strep throat can lead to serious complications. These complications include rheumatic fever, an inflammatory disease that can affect the heart, joints, brain, and skin. Another potential complication is kidney inflammation, known as post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis.