Characteristics of Streptococcus pyogenes
Streptococcus pyogenes is the bacteria that causes Group A streptococcus infections, also known as strep throat. Strep throat signs can range from mild to severe, but they can usually be managed with antibiotics.
Other People Are Reading
-
Symptoms
-
Symptoms of strep throat include a sudden fever, difficulty swallowing, sore throat, nausea and swollen lymph nodes in the neck.
Diagnosis
-
Strep throat is diagnosed with a throat swab. Because most sore throats have viral causes, it is important to diagnose strep throat correctly before treating with antibiotics.
-
Treatment
-
Strep throat is usually treated with antibiotics, such as penicillin or amoxicillin. Drinking warm liquids, sucking on lozenges and taking over-the-counter painkillers may help alleviate symptoms.
Complications
-
Complications of strep throat are rare but include ear infection, scarlet fever, sinusitis and rheumatic fever.
Time Frame
-
Strep throat is usually cured within a week of treatment.
-
References
- Photo Credit Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of Biology Big Brother
