Strep throat

Alternative names

Pharyngitis - streptococcal; Streptococcal pharyngitis

Definition

Strep throat is caused by Streptococcus bacteria. It is the most common bacterial infection of the throat.

Causes, incidence, and risk factors

Strep throat is most common in children between the ages of 5 and 15, although it can happen in younger children and adults. Children younger than 3 can get strep infections, but these usually don't affect the throat.

Strep throat is most common in the late fall, winter, and early spring. The infection is spread by person-to-person contact with nasal secretions or saliva, often among family or household members.

People with strep throat get sick 2-5 days after they are exposed. The illness usually begins suddenly, with a fever that peaks on the second day. Many also have sore throat, headache, stomachache, nausea, or chills.

In some people, strep throat is very mild, with only a few of these symptoms. In others, strep throat is severe. There are many strains of strep. Some strains produce toxins that can lead to a scarlet fever rash. This rash is thought to be an allergic reaction to the toxins. Untreated, strep throat can sometimes lead to Rheumatic fever. Kidney complications are among the other possibilities.

Symptoms

• sore throat
  
• red throat
  
• difficulty swallowing
  
• fever that begins suddenly
  
• tender, swollen Lymph nodes in the neck
  
• general discomfort, uneasiness or ill feeling
  
• nausea
  
• loss of appetite
  
• rash
  

Additional symptoms that may be associated with this disease:

• tongue problems
  
• neck pain
  
• nasal discharge
  
• Nasal congestion
  
• muscle pain
  
• joint stiffness
  
• headache
  
• abnormal taste