Throat Infection or Strep – Recognizing Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment Options for a Sore Throat

Strep throat is a common condition that affects the throat and tonsils. It is caused by the bacteria Streptococcus pyogenes. This type of infection is highly contagious and can be easily spread through coughing, sneezing, or sharing utensils.

The symptoms of strep throat include a sore and painful throat, difficulty swallowing, swollen tonsils, and fever. Unlike a regular sore throat, strep throat is typically accompanied by other symptoms such as headache, stomachache, and a red rash.

If you suspect that you have strep throat, it is important to see a doctor for diagnosis and treatment. Strep throat is typically diagnosed through a throat culture, where a swab is taken from the back of the throat and tested for the presence of the bacteria. Once diagnosed, treatment usually involves a course of antibiotics to kill the bacteria and relieve symptoms.

Symptoms of Throat Infection

Throat infections, such as strep throat, can cause a variety of symptoms that can range from mild to severe. Common symptoms of throat infections include:

Painful throat: Throat infections often cause soreness and discomfort in the throat, making it difficult to swallow or talk.

Tonsils: The tonsils, which are located at the back of the throat, may become red and swollen in response to infection.

Strep throat: Throat infections caused by strep bacteria can cause additional symptoms, such as fever, headache, and a rash.

Swollen glands: Infections in the throat can cause the lymph nodes in the neck to swell and become tender to the touch.

Antibiotics: Throat infections caused by bacteria, such as strep throat, may require treatment with antibiotics to help reduce symptoms and prevent complications.

Soreness: Throat infections can cause general discomfort and a feeling of rawness in the throat, making it painful to swallow or breathe.

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to see a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Causes of Throat Infection

Throat infections can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

Painful and swollen tonsils:

Tonsils are two small, oval-shaped masses of tissue located at the back of the throat. When they become infected, they can become painful and swollen, leading to a throat infection.

Sore throat:

A sore throat can be a symptom of a throat infection. It is typically caused by viruses or bacteria, such as streptococcus pyogenes (strep throat).

Fever:

A fever is a common sign of a throat infection. It is the body’s natural response to an infection and helps to fight off the harmful germs.

Infection spread:

• Throat infections can be spread through respiratory droplets, such as when an infected person coughs or sneezes. This is why it is important to practice good respiratory hygiene, such as covering your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing.
• Sharing contaminated objects, such as utensils or drinking glasses, can also spread throat infections.
• Close contact with an infected person, such as kissing or hugging, can increase the risk of throat infection transmission.

To prevent throat infections, it is important to maintain good hygiene practices, such as washing hands regularly, avoiding close contact with people who have throat infections, and keeping shared objects clean and sanitized.

Treatment for Throat Infection

When it comes to treating a throat infection, the main goal is to alleviate symptoms and eliminate the infection causing agent. The treatment may vary depending on the cause of the infection and the severity of the symptoms.

1. Antibiotics

If the throat infection is caused by a bacterial infection, such as strep throat, antibiotics are often prescribed. Antibiotics help to kill the bacteria and reduce the duration and severity of symptoms. It is important to take the full course of antibiotics as prescribed, even if the symptoms improve, to ensure the infection is completely eradicated.

2. Symptom relief

Alongside antibiotics, other measures can be taken to relieve the symptoms of a throat infection. Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help to reduce fever and relieve throat pain. Gargling with warm salt water or using throat lozenges can also provide temporary relief for a sore throat. Drinking plenty of fluids and getting adequate rest can help to boost the body’s immune system and aid in recovery.

In cases where the throat infection is causing severe symptoms or complications, such as difficulty breathing or swallowing, hospitalization may be required. In some cases, a surgical procedure to remove infected tonsils may be necessary.

Signs of Strep Throat

Strep throat, also known as streptococcal pharyngitis, is a bacterial infection that affects the throat and tonsils. It is caused by the bacteria group A Streptococcus. Strep throat is highly contagious and can be spread through respiratory droplets.

Common Symptoms of Strep Throat:

• Sore throat
• Fever
• Swollen tonsils
• Painful swallowing
• White or yellow spots on the back of the throat
• Tender and swollen lymph nodes in the neck

If you or your child experience these symptoms, it is important to see a healthcare provider for a proper diagnosis. Strep throat can usually be confirmed through a throat swab test.

Once diagnosed with strep throat, treatment typically involves a course of antibiotics to treat the infection. It is important to complete the entire course of antibiotics, even if symptoms improve, to prevent complications and the spread of the infection.

Managing the symptoms of strep throat can also help alleviate discomfort. This may include gargling with warm salt water, using over-the-counter pain relievers, drinking plenty of fluids, and getting plenty of rest.

It is important to note that not all sore throats are caused by strep throat. Viral infections, such as the common cold, can also cause similar symptoms. If symptoms do not improve or worsen after a few days, it is recommended to seek medical advice for further evaluation.

Common Causes of Strep Throat

Strep throat is a common infection that can cause a variety of symptoms, including a painful and swollen throat, fever, and difficulty swallowing. It is caused by the bacteria known as Streptococcus pyogenes, which can be spread through respiratory droplets from an infected person.

Transmission

Strep throat is highly contagious and can be easily transmitted from person to person through close contact or respiratory droplets. Sharing utensils, cups, or other items with an infected person can also spread the bacteria. It is important to practice good hygiene, such as washing hands regularly and covering the mouth when coughing or sneezing, to prevent the spread of the infection.

Tonsils and Throat

The tonsils and the back of the throat are the most common sites for strep throat infection. The bacteria can cause inflammation and swelling of the tonsils, resulting in a sore throat. The infection can also spread to the surrounding tissues, causing discomfort and pain.

Strep throat is more common in children and teenagers, although it can affect people of all ages. Individuals with weakened immune systems or who are in close contact with others, such as in schools or daycare centers, have a higher risk of contracting the infection.

Treatment

Strep throat is usually treated with antibiotics to kill the bacteria and reduce the symptoms. It is important to finish the full course of antibiotics as prescribed by the healthcare professional, even if the symptoms improve. This helps to prevent the bacteria from becoming resistant to the medication.

In addition to antibiotics, over-the-counter pain relievers and throat lozenges can help relieve the pain and discomfort associated with strep throat. Drinking plenty of fluids and getting plenty of rest can also help the body fight off the infection.

If you suspect you have strep throat, it is important to see a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and treatment. They can perform a throat culture or rapid strep test to confirm the presence of the bacteria and determine the best course of action.

Effective Treatment for Strep Throat

Strep throat is a very common infection characterized by a sore and painful throat, swollen tonsils, and fever. It is caused by a bacteria called Streptococcus pyogenes, or Group A streptococcus. If you suspect that you have strep throat, it is important to seek medical attention promptly. The good news is that strep throat is treatable with antibiotics.

Antibiotics are the most effective treatment for strep throat. Your doctor will likely prescribe a course of antibiotics to help fight the infection. It is important to take the full course of antibiotics as prescribed, even if you start feeling better. This will ensure that the infection is completely eradicated and reduce the risk of complications.

In addition to antibiotics, there are some home remedies that can help alleviate the symptoms of strep throat. Gargling with warm salt water can soothe the throat and reduce inflammation. Drinking warm liquids, such as tea with honey or chicken soup, can also help relieve throat pain.

It is important to rest and take care of yourself while you recover from strep throat. Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated and get plenty of rest to support your immune system. Avoid irritants such as smoking or exposure to chemicals that can further irritate your throat.

If you do not see any improvement in your symptoms after 48 hours of starting antibiotics, or if your symptoms worsen, it is important to contact your doctor. Strep throat can sometimes lead to more serious complications if left untreated.

Remember, the key to effective treatment for strep throat is early intervention and completing the full course of antibiotics. If you suspect that you have strep throat, don’t delay seeking medical attention.

Difference Between Throat Infection and Strep Throat

Throat infection and strep throat are two common conditions that can cause discomfort and pain in the throat. While they share similar symptoms, there are some key differences between the two.

Symptoms

A throat infection, also known as pharyngitis, is a general term that refers to inflammation or infection of the throat. It can be caused by various viruses or bacteria. The common symptoms of a throat infection include a sore throat, difficulty swallowing, hoarseness, and swollen lymph nodes in the neck.

Strep throat, on the other hand, is specifically caused by the Streptococcus bacteria. In addition to the symptoms mentioned above, strep throat is also characterized by a high fever, headache, and the presence of white spots on the tonsils. These symptoms are usually more severe than those of a regular throat infection.

Causes

A throat infection can be caused by a variety of factors, including viral infections like the common cold or influenza, as well as bacterial infections like strep throat or tonsillitis.

Strep throat, as mentioned earlier, is caused by the Streptococcus bacteria. It is highly contagious and can be easily spread through respiratory droplets from an infected individual. It is important to note that not all sore throats are caused by strep throat, as there are other types of bacteria and viruses that can cause similar symptoms.

Treatment

Both throat infections and strep throat require proper treatment to alleviate symptoms and prevent complications.

A throat infection caused by a viral infection does not respond to antibiotics and usually resolves on its own within a week. Treatment involves managing symptoms, such as drinking fluids, taking over-the-counter pain relievers, and using throat lozenges or sprays to soothe the throat.

Strep throat, on the other hand, requires treatment with antibiotics to prevent complications such as rheumatic fever. Antibiotics, such as penicillin or amoxicillin, are typically prescribed. It is important to complete the full course of antibiotics as directed by a healthcare provider, even if symptoms improve before finishing the medication.

In summary, while both throat infections and strep throat can cause a painful and sore throat, strep throat is specifically caused by the Streptococcus bacteria and is associated with more severe symptoms such as fever and white spots on the tonsils. Proper treatment, including the use of antibiotics, is necessary for strep throat, while viral throat infections usually resolve on their own.

When to Seek Medical Help for Throat Infection

If you are experiencing severe pain in your tonsils, a persistent sore throat, or a high fever, it may be time to seek medical help for your throat infection. While a mild sore throat can often be managed at home with rest and over-the-counter remedies, certain symptoms may indicate a more serious condition.

If your throat infection is accompanied by swollen tonsils, difficulty swallowing, or a fever over 101°F (38.3°C), it is important to see a doctor. These symptoms could be signs of strep throat, which is a bacterial infection that usually requires antibiotics for treatment. Strep throat can also cause other complications if left untreated, such as rheumatic fever or kidney inflammation.

In addition to the aforementioned symptoms, if you experience persistent hoarseness, a rash, or difficulty breathing, it is crucial to seek urgent medical care. These symptoms may indicate a more severe infection or potentially life-threatening condition.

Self-Care and Home Remedies

While waiting for medical care, there are a few self-care measures you can take to alleviate symptoms and support recovery. Drinking warm liquids, gargling with salt water, and using over-the-counter pain relievers can help soothe a sore throat. Resting, staying hydrated, and avoiding irritants such as smoke or pollution can also aid in the healing process.

When to Expect Relief

With proper medical treatment, most throat infections can be successfully treated within a week. Antibiotics are typically prescribed for bacterial infections like strep throat, and these medications can help alleviate symptoms and prevent complications. It is important to complete the full course of antibiotics as prescribed by your doctor, even if you start feeling better before finishing the medication.

If you do not see any improvement in your symptoms after a few days of home care or if your symptoms worsen, it is important to contact your healthcare provider for further evaluation and treatment. They can determine if additional medical interventions are necessary to help you recover from your throat infection.

Prevention of Throat Infection

To prevent throat infections, it’s important to maintain good hygiene practices and take precautionary measures. Here are some tips to reduce the risk of getting a throat infection:

1. Practice Proper Hand Hygiene

Washing your hands regularly with soap and water is one of the most effective ways to prevent the spread of bacterial and viral infections, including strep throat. Be sure to wash your hands for at least 20 seconds, especially before eating and after using the bathroom or coming into contact with surfaces that may harbor bacteria.

2. Avoid Close Contact with Infected Individuals

Throat infections are highly contagious, especially strep throat. It’s important to avoid close contact with individuals who have a sore throat, fever, or other symptoms of a throat infection. This will help reduce the risk of transmission and prevent the spread of the infection.

3. Keep Your Immune System Strong

A strong immune system can help prevent various infections, including throat infections. To boost your immune system, make sure you eat a healthy, balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and other nutrients. Regular exercise, adequate sleep, and managing stress are also important for maintaining a strong immune system.

4. Avoid Sharing Personal Items

Throat infections can easily spread through sharing personal items, such as drinking glasses, eating utensils, toothbrushes, or towels. It’s important to avoid sharing these items, especially with individuals who are currently experiencing symptoms of a throat infection.

5. Cover Your Mouth and Nose

When coughing or sneezing, make sure to cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your elbow to prevent the spread of infection. Dispose of used tissues properly and wash your hands afterward to maintain good hygiene.

6. Avoid Allergens and Irritants

Allergens and irritants, such as cigarette smoke, can contribute to the inflammation and irritation of the throat, making it more susceptible to infection. Avoid exposure to these substances to help reduce the risk of throat infections.

Remember, if you suspect you have a throat infection or strep throat, it’s important to seek medical attention. Only a healthcare professional can provide an accurate diagnosis and prescribe appropriate treatment, such as antibiotics, if necessary.

Complications of Untreated Throat Infection

When left untreated, a throat infection can lead to various complications that can be potentially serious. It is important to seek medical attention if you suspect a throat infection, especially if symptoms persist or worsen.

If a strep throat infection is left untreated, it can result in the following complications:

Spread of infection: Untreated strep throat can spread the infection to other parts of the body, such as the sinuses, middle ear, or skin. This can lead to additional symptoms and further complications.

Tonsillitis: Streptococcus bacteria, which cause strep throat, can also cause inflammation and infection of the tonsils. This condition is known as tonsillitis and can be very painful. It may require additional medical treatment, including antibiotics or, in severe cases, surgery to remove the tonsils.

Rheumatic fever: One of the most serious complications of untreated strep throat is the development of rheumatic fever, an inflammatory disease that can affect the heart, joints, skin, and brain. This condition can cause long-term damage to the heart valves and may require lifelong medical management.

It is important to note that not all throat infections are caused by strep bacteria. Other viruses or bacteria can also cause throat infections, which may have their own potential complications if left untreated.

If you experience symptoms such as a fever, swollen and painful throat, or difficulty swallowing, it is important to see a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. In most cases, antibiotics are prescribed to treat bacterial throat infections, while viral infections generally resolve on their own with rest and symptom management.

Home Remedies for Throat Infection

If you have a throat infection, you may experience symptoms such as a sore and painful throat, fever, and swollen glands. While strep throat is a common cause of throat infections, there are also other viral and bacterial infections that can lead to similar symptoms.

Here are some home remedies that can help alleviate the symptoms of a throat infection:

• Gargle with warm salt water: Mixing half a teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water and gargling with it can help soothe a sore throat and reduce inflammation.
• Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of fluids, such as water, herbal tea, and warm soups, can help keep your throat moist and relieve discomfort.
• Use a humidifier: Adding moisture to the air with a humidifier can help soothe a dry and scratchy throat.
• Take over-the-counter pain relievers: Non-prescription pain relievers, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, can help reduce throat pain and fever. However, always follow the recommended dosage and consult a healthcare professional if your symptoms persist.
• Try throat lozenges or sprays: Throat lozenges or sprays containing menthol or benzocaine can provide temporary relief from throat pain and irritation.
• Avoid irritants: Avoiding irritants such as smoking, secondhand smoke, and air pollution can help prevent further irritation of the throat.

It’s important to note that while these home remedies may provide temporary relief, they are not a substitute for medical treatment. If your symptoms worsen or persist, it is recommended to seek medical attention. In some cases, throat infections may require antibiotics to effectively treat the underlying infection.

When to See a Doctor for Strep Throat

If you have a swollen and painful throat accompanied by a high fever, it could be a sign of strep throat. Strep throat is a bacterial infection that affects the throat and tonsils and can lead to severe discomfort and difficulty swallowing.

While sore throat is a common symptom of various infections, strep throat is specifically caused by the streptococcus bacteria. It is important to see a doctor if you suspect you have strep throat because it requires specific treatment in the form of antibiotics.

A doctor can diagnose strep throat by performing a throat culture or a rapid strep test. These tests will help determine if the infection is indeed caused by streptococcus bacteria. If the test results are positive, your doctor will prescribe antibiotics to help clear the infection and relieve your symptoms.

It is crucial to seek medical attention for strep throat because if left untreated, it can lead to complications such as rheumatic fever or kidney inflammation. These complications can be serious and may have long-term effects on your health.

If you experience symptoms such as a severe sore throat, difficulty swallowing, swollen tonsils, and a high fever, it is best to consult a doctor. They will be able to properly diagnose your condition and provide the appropriate treatment to help you recover quickly and prevent any potential complications.

Prevention of Strep Throat

Strep throat is a painful infection that affects the throat and tonsils. It is caused by the Streptococcus bacteria and can cause symptoms such as a sore throat, swollen tonsils, and fever. To prevent the spread of strep throat, there are several measures that can be taken:

1. Hand Hygiene

One of the most effective ways to prevent the spread of strep throat is to practice good hand hygiene. This means washing your hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially before eating or touching your face.

2. Cover Your Mouth and Nose

If you have a sore throat or think you may have strep throat, it is important to cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing. This can help prevent the bacteria from spreading to others. Use a tissue or your elbow to cover your mouth and nose, and dispose of tissues properly.

3. Avoid Close Contact

Strep throat is highly contagious and can spread through close contact with an infected person. To prevent the spread of infection, avoid close contact with individuals who have strep throat, such as sharing utensils or drinks.

4. Clean and Disinfect

To reduce the risk of infection, regularly clean and disinfect surfaces that may come into contact with the strep bacteria. This includes countertops, doorknobs, and other frequently touched objects.

5. Seek Medical Treatment

If you suspect you have strep throat or experience symptoms such as a sore throat, fever, and swollen tonsils, it is important to seek medical treatment. Your healthcare provider can perform a strep throat test and prescribe antibiotics if necessary.

By following these prevention measures, you can reduce the risk of getting strep throat and prevent the spread of the infection to others.

Possible Complications of Strep Throat

Strep throat is a common infection that affects the throat and tonsils. It is caused by the bacteria streptococcus and is highly contagious. While strep throat is often a mild illness that can be easily treated with antibiotics, there are some potential complications that can arise.

If left untreated or not properly treated, strep throat can lead to the following complications:

Tonsillitis: Strep throat can cause inflammation and infection of the tonsils, resulting in tonsillitis. This can cause symptoms such as a sore throat, swollen tonsils, and difficulty swallowing.

Scarlet fever: This is a rare but serious complication of strep throat. It is characterized by a red, rash-like appearance on the skin, especially on the chest and abdomen. Other symptoms may include a high fever, sore throat, and swollen glands.

Rheumatic fever: Rheumatic fever is a potentially serious condition that can occur as a result of untreated strep throat. It can cause inflammation and damage to the heart, joints, and other organs. Symptoms of rheumatic fever may include joint pain, fever, chest pain, and a rash.

Post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis: This is a rare complication that can affect the kidneys. It can cause symptoms such as blood in the urine, swelling in the legs and ankles, and high blood pressure.

If you suspect you have strep throat, it is important to seek medical attention for a proper diagnosis and treatment. Antibiotics are typically prescribed to help kill the bacteria and prevent complications from occurring.

Remember, early detection and treatment are key to preventing the spread of strep throat and reducing the risk of complications. If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of strep throat, contact a healthcare professional for further evaluation.

Alternative Treatments for Throat Infection and Strep Throat

While antibiotics are often prescribed to treat throat infections and strep throat, there are alternative treatments that may help alleviate symptoms and speed up recovery. These alternative treatments can be used in conjunction with traditional medical care or as standalone remedies.

One alternative treatment for throat infection and strep throat is gargling with warm salt water. This simple practice can help soothe a sore and painful throat, reduce inflammation, and kill bacteria in the throat. To do this, dissolve half a teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water and gargle for 30 seconds before spitting it out. Repeat this several times a day.

Another alternative treatment is using natural remedies such as herbal teas and throat sprays. Certain herbal teas, such as chamomile, ginger, and licorice root, can provide relief from throat discomfort and help boost the immune system. Throat sprays containing natural ingredients like honey and propolis can also soothe throat irritation and provide a temporary numbing effect.

In addition to natural remedies, maintaining good oral hygiene is crucial in preventing and treating throat infections. Regularly brushing your teeth, flossing, and using mouthwash can help eliminate bacteria and reduce the risk of infection. It’s also important to avoid smoking and other irritants that can further aggravate the throat.

When seeking alternative treatments for throat infections and strep throat, it’s important to remember that these remedies may not fully replace the need for antibiotics in severe cases. It’s always best to consult with a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.

Alternative Treatments for Throat Infection and Strep Throat	Benefits
Gargling with warm salt water	Soothes sore throat, reduces inflammation, kills bacteria
Herbal teas	Relieves throat discomfort, boosts immune system
Throat sprays	Soothes throat irritation, provides temporary numbing effect
Good oral hygiene	Prevents and treats throat infections

FAQs About Throat Infection and Strep

Here are some frequently asked questions about throat infection and strep:

• What is strep throat?

Strep throat is a bacterial infection caused by the streptococcus bacteria. It is characterized by a sore throat, swollen tonsils, and fever.

• How is strep throat different from a regular throat infection?

A regular throat infection can be caused by a virus, while strep throat is specifically caused by the streptococcus bacteria. Strep throat is usually more severe and may require treatment with antibiotics.

• What are the symptoms of strep throat?

The symptoms of strep throat include a very sore throat, difficulty swallowing, swollen and red tonsils, fever, and sometimes white patches or pus on the tonsils.

• How is strep throat diagnosed?

A doctor will usually perform a physical examination and may order a throat culture to confirm the presence of strep bacteria.

• How is strep throat treated?

Strep throat is usually treated with antibiotics to kill the bacteria and relieve symptoms. It is important to complete the full course of antibiotics prescribed by the doctor.

• Is strep throat painful?

Yes, strep throat can be very painful, especially when swallowing or talking.

• Can strep throat be prevented?

While it is not always possible to prevent strep throat, following good hygiene practices such as regularly washing hands, covering mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing, and avoiding close contact with infected individuals can help reduce the risk of infection.

If you have any further questions or concerns about throat infections or strep throat, it is best to consult with a healthcare professional.

Question and answer:

What are the symptoms of a throat infection?

Symptoms of a throat infection can include sore throat, difficulty swallowing, swollen glands, and redness or white patches on the throat.

How can I differentiate between a throat infection and strep throat?

A throat infection can be caused by various bacterial or viral infections, while strep throat is specifically caused by streptococcus bacteria. To differentiate between the two, a medical professional can perform a throat swab and conduct a rapid strep test to specifically determine if the streptococcus bacteria is present.

What are the causes of throat infections?

Throat infections can be caused by both viral and bacterial infections. Common viral causes include the common cold, influenza, and mononucleosis. Bacterial causes include streptococcus bacteria, which leads to strep throat, and other bacteria such as Haemophilus influenzae and Staphylococcus aureus.

What is the treatment for a throat infection?

Treatment for a throat infection depends on the underlying cause. If it is a viral infection, rest, fluids, and over-the-counter pain relievers can help alleviate symptoms. If it is a bacterial infection such as strep throat, antibiotics are often prescribed to kill the bacteria.

Can throat infections be prevented?

While it may not be possible to prevent all throat infections, there are some measures that can help reduce the risk. These include practicing good hand hygiene, avoiding close contact with sick individuals, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle to support a strong immune system.

What are the symptoms of throat infection?

The symptoms of throat infection may include sore throat, difficulty swallowing, swollen tonsils, redness and inflammation of the throat, white patches or pus on the tonsils, hoarseness, and swollen lymph nodes.

What causes throat infections?

Throat infections can be caused by viral or bacterial infections. The most common cause of throat infections is the streptococcus bacteria, which causes strep throat. Viral infections, such as the common cold or flu, can also cause throat infections.

How is strep throat diagnosed?

Strep throat is usually diagnosed through a physical examination and a throat swab test. The doctor will examine the throat for signs of redness, inflammation, or white patches. A throat swab test can determine if streptococcus bacteria are present in the throat.

What is the treatment for strep throat?

The treatment for strep throat usually includes antibiotics to kill the streptococcus bacteria. It is important to take the full course of antibiotics as prescribed by the doctor. In addition, over-the-counter pain relievers and throat lozenges can help alleviate symptoms such as pain and soreness.