Share:

Strep throat is an infection that can affect people of all ages. Named after the sore, scratchy feeling people get in their throat, it can also be accompanied by a fever, rash, appetite loss, swollen tonsils, and the appearance of white patches. Highly contagious, it is typically transmitted through direct contact with the mucus of another person with the condition. If you or someone you know is experiencing the signs of strep, make an appointment with a throat doctor. Here are some frequently asked questions and answers about this illness.

An Overview of Strep Throat

1. What Are the Risk Factors for Strep Throat?

Like many illnesses, children, between the ages of five and 15, and the elderly are more at risk. Interaction with other people who have strep throat and poor hygiene practices are also contributing factors.

2. How Do You Treat Strep Throat?

A throat doctor will likely prescribe you 10 days worth of antibiotics to kill the bacteria. They may also recommend taking over-the-counter pain relievers for fever and headaches and a throat spray to alleviate the soreness in your throat.

3. Can Strep Throat Have Complications?

While complications are rare, they do occur if strep throat is left undiagnosed or if you don't follow the treatment plan outlined by your throat doctor. These include the possibility of ear infection, rheumatic fever, sinus issues, and kidney inflammation.

4. Can Strep Throat Be Prevented?

throat doctorIt’s possible to lower your risk of strep throat by washing your hands before eating and after using the bathroom, covering your mouth when coughing and not sharing eating utensils with others. A healthy diet and exercising regularly can also bolster your immune system, making you less susceptible to this infection.

 

If you have strep throat, trust the medical professionals at Ear Nose & Throat Specialties PC. Established in 1991, it’s the largest ear, nose, and throat practice in Lincoln, NE. They diagnose and treat a wide variety of conditions and offer everything from allergy testing to CT scans. If you want to make an appointment with a throat doctor, call (402) 488-5600 or visit their website for more information about their services. 

tracking