Strep Throat Conditions & Symptoms

Strep throat is caused by group A Streptococcus bacteria, unlike most sore throats that are caused by viruses. Because strep throat is a bacterial infection, it can be cured with antibiotics. Although the sore throat caused by strep usually resolves on its own, serious complications are possible without antibiotic treatment.

Considerations

Some people with strep have a very mild sore throat, while others develop a severe sore throat with many additional symptoms. Strep throat usually has a rapid onset.

Primary Symptom

Throat pain is the primary symptom. The person has continuous pain or pain when swallowing. The tonsils and throat may be red and swollen, and sometimes there are white patches in the throat.

Additional Symptoms

Common additional symptoms are fever, swollen, tender lymph glands in the neck, headache, stomach upset and nausea. Less common is neck, joint or muscle pain and stiffness.

Scarlet Fever

Some people with strep throat develop a red rash called scarlet fever. It is likely an allergic reaction to the bacterial toxins.

Rheumatic Fever

Untreated strep throat can result in rheumatic fever, a condition of inflamed and painful joints, difficulty breathing and a rash. This disorder can cause damage to the heart valves.

Kidney Inflammation

A complication of untreated strep throat is kidney inflammation, a condition called poststreptococcal glomerulonephritis, which can lead to permanent kidney damage. The main sign is brownish urine.

References

• Mayo Clinic Strep Throat Page
• New York Times Health Guide: Strep Throat Symptoms and Treatment