Do You Have Strep Throat?
Taylor Elliott
What Is Strep Throat?
Strep Throat is caused by a pathogen called streptococcus pyogenes. Strep throat is a bacterial infection that causes a sore throat, red and inflamed tonsils with patches on pus on the throat and tonsils. Strep throat is defined as a sore throat with fever caused by a streptococcal infection. It is spread through causal contact such as coughing and speaking.
Pus On The Tonsils
You can see how this persons tonsils are red and inflamed and they also have pus on their tonsils which is an indicator for strep throat.
Can You See The Difference?
This is a picture of what a normal healthy throat should look like. When the tonsils become red and inflamed it is a sign of strep throat. Going to the doctor at the first sign of infection can prevent pus in your throat which makes strep throat a more significant infection which could require a stronger antibiotic. Having pus in your throat will also make your throat more sore.
Red Throat
A red throat is a sign of a developing infection. It is a good idea to go to the doctor at the first sign of the infection to help it from becoming severe which makes it harder to treat.
How Do I Know If I Have Strep Throat?
Your doctor will know if you have strep throat because they will be able to see your tonsils inflamed and the pus on the walls of your throat and on your tonsils. Your throat will be red and very sore. Your doctor will do a strep test by rubbing a long q-tip on your throat and sending it to the lab. It can be easily treated with antibiotics. Your doctor may also recommend taking Tylenol to reduce your fever.
How To Prevent Strep Throat
- Avoid people with a sore throat until they have taken antibiotics for 48 hours
- Encourage those with strep throat to cover their mouth with they cough or sneeze
- Wash your hands often- especially after handling items that may have the bacteria on it (example: dirty dishes and utensils)
- Don't share food or drinks with a sick person