Strep throat is an infection of the throat or pharynx caused by bacteria called group A streptococcus. According to MayoClinic.com, if strep throat is left untreated, it can lead to complications, such as rheumatic fever, which causes kidney, joint and heart inflammation. This infection can be acquired through the spread of airborne droplets when a person sneezes or coughs, shares foods or drinks, or touches surfaces after touching the nose or mouth. The signs and symptoms of strep throat include sore throat, fever and headache, inflamed throat and stomach pain.
Sore Throat
Sore throat or throat pain can be commonly seen in strep throat patients and can be seen in children and adults alike. This causes pain and hoarseness, and can lead to difficulty with swallowing food and liquids.
Fever And Headache
Fever may be seen in all ages and it can be greater than 101 F, according to Medline Plus. Headache comes along with fever, which can make a person easily irritable. Sometimes it becomes difficult for children to recognize this irritation and they might not express it until a later stage.
Inflamed Throat Or Redness
MayoClinic.com reports that an inflamed throat or redness in the infected area, if observed carefully, can be seen in people with strep throat. This may lead to swollen tonsils, and sometimes white patches may appear, followed by tiny red spots on the back of the throat.
Stomach Pain
Stomach pain may occur, especially in small children with strep throat, according to MayoClinic.com. It can be followed by vomiting tendencies, which may finally result in fatigue, weakness and loss of appetite
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According to Lab Tests Online, strep throat is prevalent in children ages 5 to 10 years old and up to 20 percent of school children may be infected but do not show any symptoms. These persons are called carriers and they can still spread the infection to others.
Rapid Strep Test
A test known as rapid strep test, may clinically confirm diagnosis of strep throat, according to FamilyDoctor.org, a website supported by the American Academy of Family Physicians. The doctor takes some mucus from the back of the throat and confirms it within 15 minutes. The test detects the presence of a component of the bacteria, which causes strep throat.
