Strep Throat

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Jun 5, 2024.

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AMBULATORY CARE:

Strep throat

is a throat infection caused by bacteria. It is easily spread from person to person.

Common symptoms include the following:

• Sore, red, and swollen throat
• Fever and headache
• Upset stomach, abdominal pain, or vomiting
• White or yellow patches or blisters in the back of your throat
• Tender, swollen lumps on the sides of your neck or jaw
• Throat pain when you swallow

Call 911 for any of the following:

• You have trouble breathing.

Seek care immediately if:

• You have new symptoms like a bad headache, stiff neck, chest pain, or vomiting.
• You are drooling because you cannot swallow your spit.

Contact your healthcare provider if:

• You have a fever.
• You have a rash or ear pain.
• You have green, yellow-brown, or bloody mucus when you cough or blow your nose.
• You are unable to drink anything.
• You have questions or concerns about your condition or care.

Treatment for strep throat

may include antibiotic medicine to treat your strep throat. You should feel better within 2 to 3 days after you start antibiotics. You may return to work or school 24 hours after you start antibiotics.

Manage strep throat:

• Use lozenges, ice, soft foods, or popsicles to soothe your throat.
• Drink juice, milk shakes, or soup if your throat is too sore to eat solid food. Drinking liquids can also help prevent dehydration.
• Gargle with salt water. Mix ¼ teaspoon salt in a glass of warm water and gargle. This may help reduce swelling in your throat.
• Do not smoke. Nicotine and other chemicals in cigarettes and cigars can cause lung damage and make your symptoms worse. Ask your healthcare provider for information if you currently smoke and need help to quit. E-cigarettes or smokeless tobacco still contain nicotine. Talk to your healthcare provider before you use these products.

Treatment options

The following list of medications are related to or used in the treatment of this condition.

• Augmentin
• amoxicillin/clavulanate
• Ceftin
• cefdinir
• Amoclan

View more treatment options

Prevent the spread of strep throat:

• Wash your hands often. Use soap and water. Wash your hands after you use the bathroom, change a child's diapers, or sneeze. Wash your hands before you prepare or eat food.
• Do not share food or drinks. Replace your toothbrush after you have taken antibiotics for 24 hours.

Follow up with your doctor as directed:

Write down your questions so you remember to ask them during your visits.

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The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.

Further information

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