; Throat sprays, many that contain topical anesthetics can provide short-term relief. Strep throat is treated using antibiotics, which kill the bacteria causing the infection. But be sure to finish all the medicine. If the test is negative but your doctor still suspects strep, he or she might do a throat culture. Once they've been on these drugs for about 24 hours, they're no longer contagious and can go back to school.Even after kids start to feel better, they should finish all their pills. Your doctor will conduct a physical exam, look for signs and symptoms of strep throat, and probably order one or more of the following tests: 1.
; Gargling with salt water is a natural remedy that can help clear the throat and relieve pain.
This is because aspirin has been linked to Reye's syndrome, a rare but potentially life-threatening condition, in such children.In most cases, antibiotics will quickly wipe out the bacteria causing the infection. Call your doctor if there's no improvement after taking antibiotics for 48 hours.Children taking an antibiotic who feel well and don't have a fever often can return to school or child care when they're no longer contagious — usually 24 hours after beginning treatment. © 1998-2020 Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research (MFMER). Stopping early can lead to recurrences and serious complications, such as rheumatic fever or kidney inflammation.To relieve throat pain and reduce fever, try over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB, others) or acetaminophen (Tylenol, others). That means another case of strep would be much harder to control.Until the antibiotics start to work, these home treatments can help you or your child feel better:American Academy of Family Physicians: "IDSA Updates Guideline for Managing Group A Streptococcal Pharyngitis," "Strep Throat. Elderberry has antibacterial and antiviral effects. It isn't handled in the same way as sore throats caused by If the test is positive (meaning you or your child has it), Kids or adults who are allergic to penicillin may be able to take one of these antibiotics instead:Usually these side effects are mild. All rights reserved. Any use of this site constitutes your agreement to the Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy linked below. Antibiotics are often taken as pills or given as a shot. They exhibit β-hemolysis (complete hemolysis) when grown on blood agar plates. https://www.webmd.com/oral-health/understanding-strep-throat-treatment Strep throat is a bacterial infection caused by group A Streptococcus or “group A strep.” In addition to a sore throat, symptoms can include pain when swallowing, a fever, red and swollen tonsils, tiny red spots on the roof of the mouth, or swollen lymph nodes in the front of the neck. Strep throat is a bacterial infection of the throat and tonsils caused by group A streptococcus. Make a list of:Take along a family member or friend, if possible, to help you remember the information you're given.For strep throat, some basic questions to ask your doctor include:Your doctor is likely to ask a number of questions, including:If you think you or your child might have a strep infection, take steps to avoid spreading infection:Mayo Clinic does not endorse companies or products. Learn the causes of streptococcal pharyngitis and how to tell strep from other sore throat conditions. A single copy of these materials may be reprinted for noncommercial personal use only.
We explain the common signs, diagnostic tests, treatment options, and potential complications. Elderberry. Advertising revenue supports our not-for-profit mission.Check out these best-sellers and special offers on books and newsletters from Mayo Clinic. If strep is not fully treated, it might lead to complications such as:When people stop taking antibiotics too soon, the bacteria that cause strep can become resistant to the medication. Kids usually feel better a day or two after they start them. "Mayo," "Mayo Clinic," "MayoClinic.org," "Mayo Clinic Healthy Living," and the triple-shield Mayo Clinic logo are trademarks of Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research.