- Knowledgebase: Information on Specific Illnesses
- Here you will find discussions of specific illnesses and their management.
- 40. Strep Throat - Top
- Definition
An inflammation of the pharynx (the part of the throat between the tonsils and the larynx) caused by streptococcus infection.
Causes, Incidence and Risk Factors
Group A Beta-hemolytic streptococci are the most common bacterial cause of pharyngitis. It occurs most commonly from October to April, in children 5 to 10 years old. The infection is spread by direct person-to-person contact with nasal secretions or saliva. The organism may colonize the throats of people without producing symptoms. Small children frequently have symptoms too mild for diagnosis. Risk factors include recent strep throat in family or household members. The incidence is 5 out of 1000 people.
Symptoms
sore throat
red throat
difficulty swallowing
fever with sudden onset
tender, swollen lymph nodes in the neck
general discomfort, uneasiness, or ill feeling (malaise)
nausea
loss of appetite
rash may be present
Additional symptoms that may be associated with this disease:
tongue problems
neck pain
nasal discharge
nasal congestion
muscle pain
joint stiffness
headache
abnormal taste
Signs And Tests
positive streptococcal throat culture
ASO
Treatment
Antibiotics are usually prescribed for sore throats that have a positive streptococci culture. Self-care measures include gargling with warm salt water (one half teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water) several times a day, and taking pain relievers such as acetaminophen - oral. However, note that throat lozenges and sprays may aggravate this condition rather than provide relief.
Expectations (Prognosis)
The probable outcome is good; nearly all symptoms resolve in one week. Treatment prevents serious complications associated with streptococcal infections.
Complications
otitis media
sinusitis
mastoiditis
peritonsillar abscess
rheumatic fever
glomerulonephritis
scarlet fever
- Updated: March 5, 2001
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