Sore Throat
One of the most common health problems that people seek medical care for is a sore throat. A frequent symptom of the common cold, and influenza, most sore throats are caused by viruses. Sore throats caused by viruses do not need antibiotics and will usually improve with time.
Some sore throats however, can be caused by a bacteria called group A streptococcus. Often called strep throat, sore throats caused by group A streptococcus need treatment with an antibiotic. If left untreated, strep throat can cause serious but rare complications such as kidney problems and heart valve problems. It can also cause scarlet fever, which presents with a red rash. If you think you or your child has strep throat, you should be seen by a doctor or nurse practitioner. A swab or culture can be taken from the throat to determine if strep throat is present.
The signs and symptoms of strep throat include severe sore throat, painful swallowing, white patches on the tonsils, swollen neck glands, high fever greater than 38.5 C (101 F), and muscle aches. It is recommended if you or your child has any of these symptoms that a nurse practitioner or physician should examine you. Cough and nasal congestion are not usually symptoms of strep throat. You can get strep throat even if your tonsils are removed.
Penicillin, amoxicillin, or erythromycin can all easily treat strep throat. As with all antibiotics, it is vital that all the medication is finished. Symptoms of strep throat usually resolve after 2 – 3 days of treatment, but the full course of treatment is required to prevent complications of strep throat. Anyone who develops a rash after having strep throat should be re-examined by a physician or nurse practitioner.
If you think you or your child may have strep throat, please see your doctor. After hours medical advice is available by calling Telehealth Ontario, a program of the Ontario Ministry of Health, at 1-866-797-0000.