Question 1

what is strep throat?

Accepted Answer

Specific infection: A strep throat is a bacterial infection of the throat (pharynx), tonsils or both caused by the bacteria group a streptococcus.  Unfortunately common usage has deteriorated to mean sore throat in general.  This is inaccurate.  Many more viruses cause sore throats than streptococcal bacteria. Fever & sore throat for more than 2 days without cold symptoms suggests possible strep. A culture is best dx.

Question 2

how bad is strep throat?

Accepted Answer

Depends: Streptococcus pyogenes, the bacteria behind strep throat is naturally colonized in some folks. When it is actually infecting you, that is, provoking an immune response in you, it can produce significant problems if left unchecked including rheumatic fever and subsequent heart valve disease later.

Question 3

is strep throat seasonal?

Accepted Answer

Yes!: Majority of "strep throat" occurs in winter and spring.

Question 4

can i die from strep throat?

Accepted Answer

No: Your doctor must diagnose strep throat.  If your doctor did in fact diagnose strep, it is easily treated.  You won't die!

Question 5

how do you get strep throat?

Accepted Answer

From someone else: Strep throat is a bacterial infection that people usually get from being exposed to another infected individual.

Question 6

what exactly is strep throat?

Accepted Answer

Steptococcus pyogene: It is a throat infection due to streptococcus pyogenes (a bacteria), also known as group a beta-strep.  This is the same organism known as the "flesh-eating" bacteria.  The major risk here is acute rheumatic fever if the strep throat is not treated properly.  This occurs after recovery from the throat infection.

Question 7

how does strep throat spread?

Accepted Answer

Thru the Air: Strep is a contagious disease and spreads thru close respiratory contacts.Avoidance and good handwashing may help minimize the spread.

Question 8

what is done for strep throat?

Accepted Answer

If verified- treat: The majority of sore throats are viruses, but if you have verified strep you should have it treated with an antibiotic. Symptoms may improve in a day or two without treatment, but complications would still be possible without proper treatment.

Question 9

how do you avoid strep throat?

Accepted Answer

Wash hands: You can't always prevent throat infections. Avoid contact with a known carrier or someone who is infected and wash your hands, wash your hands, wash your hands.

Question 10

how can i cure a strep throat?

Accepted Answer

Streph Throat: Please see your physician for a streph throat test - if positive you will be treated with antibiotics. Rest, hydrate well with water & stay far, far away from cigarette smoke. You can keep mucosa  moist with a humidifier. Add honey & a small amt. Of lemon juice to chamomile tea. Slippery elm bark lozenges are another option. Saltwater gargles: mix 1 tsp salt in 8 oz warm water – gargle severa >>.

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