Strep Throat Specialist

What is strep throat?

Strep throat is a common bacterial infection that causes a swollen, painful throat. The illness is common in children and adolescents, although you can get strep throat at any age.

Strep throat causes symptoms including:

• A sore, red, swollen throat
• White or yellow patches on your tonsils
• Swollen lymph nodes in your neck
• Fever
• Headache
• Chills
• Loss of appetite
• Trouble swallowing

Strep throat is very contagious, and in most cases, you develop symptoms within five days of coming into contact with the bacteria. The bacteria spread through the airborne droplets that diffuse when someone coughs or sneezes.

How is strep throat diagnosed?

If you or your child have a sore throat that lasts for more than a couple of days and you can see the telltale yellow patches on your tonsils, make an appointment with Dr. Ugwu. He diagnoses strep throat with a physical exam. He may also perform a rapid antigen test or throat culture to confirm your infection is due to the streptococcus bacteria.

Strep throat test results are usually available immediately, allowing Dr. Ugwu to prescribe treatment right away.

How is strep throat treated?

Strep throat is a bacterial infection, which means that antibiotics are the best treatment to help your body fight off the infection. In addition to antibiotics, you should take time off to rest and allow your body to recover. You will need to make sure you get plenty of sleep and drink clear fluids.

You may want to eat soft foods like soups and yogurt for a few days while your throat heals. Choosing a yogurt with active cultures or probiotics can also help your body maintain its natural gut bacteria and reduce some of the digestive symptoms that can occur when you take antibiotics.

Can I prevent strep throat?

You can reduce your risk of contracting strep throat by washing your hands frequently, especially if you spend a lot of time in public places where you’re more likely to come into contact with other people who might be ill. Also, don’t share food or drinks with others. Maintaining your overall health also helps keep your immune system robust and equipped to fight off infection.

If you’re concerned about strep throat, call VNC RealHealth or schedule an appointment online today.