Strep Throat: Care Guide

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), strep throat is a common illness, estimated to cause 5.2 million outpatient visits that result in 2.8 million antibiotic prescriptions annually for children and adults.  

Strep throat is characterized by a severe sore throat with a raw, scratchy feeling. Swallowing, even liquids, becomes painful as if scraping sandpaper down the throat; in fact, the intensity of the pain can also make talking difficult. In short, this infection brings significant discomfort and a need for urgent medical attention.

Here's everything you need to know in order to manage strep throat effectively.

 

Understanding the Enemy: Strep vs. Viral Sore Throat

While a sore throat can be a symptom of various conditions, strep throat is caused by a specific bacteria – group A Streptococcus. Distinguishing between strep throat and a viral sore throat is important, as treatment approaches differ. Here's a quick comparison:

Symptoms: Strep throat typically presents with a sudden, severe sore throat, fever, and swollen lymph nodes. A viral sore throat may have milder symptoms, including a runny nose, cough, and overall achiness.

Testing: A simple swab test conducted by a doctor can confirm the presence of strep throat bacteria.

Soothing Strategies for Strep Throat Relief

If you suspect strep throat, a visit to your doctor is crucial for proper diagnosis and treatment. Antibiotics are typically prescribed to clear the infection. However, while antibiotics work their magic, here are some home remedies to ease your discomfort:

Hydration Hero: Drinking plenty of fluids, especially warm liquids like broth or tea, keeps your throat lubricated and soothes irritation. Aim for eight glasses of water daily.

Gargle Power: Gargling with warm salt water (¼ teaspoon of table salt dissolved in 8 ounces of warm water) several times a day can help reduce inflammation and ease discomfort.

Lozenge Love: Sugar-free lozenges can provide temporary relief from a sore throat. Opt for lozenges with soothing ingredients like menthol or honey.

Rest and Relaxation: Your body needs time to heal. Get plenty of rest and avoid strenuous activities.

 

These tips will surely help, but they may not always suffice. For severe cases, a doctor's consultation can help.

Early diagnosis and treatment are key to a speedy recovery from strep throat. If a trip to the doctor's office seems daunting, TelMDCare is a convenient alternative. They provide online strep throat infection treatment.

Connect with a virtual doctor for strep throat from the comfort of your couch at home. TelMDCare's online doctors for strep throat can assess your symptoms, perform a virtual strep test, and prescribe antibiotics if necessary.

Contact today and experience the ease and efficiency of virtual healthcare.