Sore throats are a common complaint during the winter months as colder weather blows in. While medically mild, a dreaded illness such as strep throat can be excruciating. There are two types of sore throats: viral and bacterial.
In a call with reporters on Monday, Dr. Mahon told reporters that the United Kingdom had reported the deaths of six children due to strep A. The director of the CDC’s Coronavirus division, Barbara Mahon, said they had not heard of any notable increase in cases in the US.
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However, it’s always good to be prepared. Learn everything about strep throat, from symptoms to treatment.
When Does Strep Throat First Appear?
Dr. Kristin Moffitt, an infectious disease physician, includes pain when swallowing, sore throat, and fever. Strep throat does not cause coughing or congestion. Dr. Moffitt says that children and teens with strep throat do not usually get a cough or have congestion. Instead, these symptoms are symptomatic of respiratory viral infections.
Are There Any Strep Throat Rashes?
An infection with strep can cause a rash known as scarlet fever. Dr. Moffitt says sandpaper-like rashes are sometimes seen in children with strep throat, which can suggest scarlet fever. Strep throat caused by Group A streptococcus can also cause an inflammation characterized by red, rough skin. The rash will likely appear first on the neck, underarms, and groin.
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How Does Recurrent Strep Throat Occur?
Getting strep throat more than once is possible because there is no vaccine. As a result, recurring strep is more likely after an infection. Good hygiene is the best way to prevent reinfection. Occasionally, doctors recommend tonsil removal for small children with recurrent strep throat. In most cases, a tonsillectomy would only be recommended if your child gets strep at least seven times during the year.
Do Strep Throats Heal On Their Own?
It is possible to heal strep throat without antibiotics. The treatment of strep throat with antibiotics is recommended for many reasons, Dr. Moffitt says, “but it can resolve on its own in several days.” People with strep throat are less likely to become infected with antibiotics.” Moffitt also emphasizes that antibiotics reduce the risk of complications such as abscesses and rheumatic fever, which, although rare, are extremely serious.