How to Treat Strep at Home

A strep infection is caused by streptococcus bacteria. One of the most common illnesses it can produce is strep throat. Both children and adults can suffer from this malady, and it is highly contagious. The symptoms are a sore or burning throat. The infection makes swallowing difficult. Antibiotic treatment is commonly prescribed but the condition can almost always be managed at home as well.

Things You'll Need

• Salt
• Soft foods
• Humidifier
• Pain medications

Instructions

1. Hydrate with plenty of cool water. The liquid will help keep your throat moist and will flush out toxins in your body. Increase your overall fluid level by drinking warm broths and teas. The warmth will soothe the soreness as well.

2. Gargle at least three times a day with warm salt water. Use a quarter of a teaspoon to eight ounces of liquid. Swish for at least 30 seconds, then discard into the sink. Salt water is renowned as a natural healer.

3. Get the soft foods ready. Consuming mashed potatoes, applesauce, loose cooked eggs, oatmeal and other bland, easily consumed items will allow your throat to rest. Avoid any spicy or crunchy foods. Eat a sorbet, ice cream or frozen yogurt for a treat that will be soothing to your throat.

4. Make your bed your primary residence for a few days. Get your eight hours of sleep or more to help speed healing of strep. Rest in a dark room with minimal background noise. Enjoy a good book or work a puzzle if you get bored staying put.

5. Plug in the humidifier to moisten the air in your room. The additional moisture will keep the mucus membranes of the throat from drying out. The drier the air, the more irritated your throat will become.

6. Take ibuprofen, aspirin or acetaminophen to relieve pain from strep. These medications are available over the counter. Only use according to the packaging guidelines. If the patient is a child or teenager, remember not to give aspirin due to the risk of Reye's syndrome, a rare but very serious disease.

Tips & Warnings

• Suck on a piece of hard candy or a cough drop in your mouth to help keep saliva flowing and alleviate your sore throat pain.

• It is advisable to see a physician if your sore throat does not improve within a week to avoid complications which could possibly include rheumatic fever.

• Replace your toothbrush after a bout with strep throat to avoid reinfection.

References

• Mayo Clinic
• Covenant Care Pediatrics