Strep throat is caused by streptococcus bacteria, the most common bacterial culprit behind sore throat infections. Strep throat is most common among children and adolescents, but adults can contract strep throat as well. Strep throat is a bacterial infection and requires an antibiotic to treat it effectively.

The symptoms of strep throat may vary depending on age, but almost always include a sore throat. Many times, the sore throat is accompanied by fever and possibly headache, and in small children, a rash can accompany strep throat. The rash looks like small, red bumps, usually located under the arms or elsewhere on the torso. Stomachache and swollen glands may also accompany strep throat.

Anyone who has a sore throat accompanied by fever should see a doctor. If a doctor suspects strep throat, he or she will run a test by swabbing the back of the throat to confirm the presence of streptococcus bacteria. Usually, a strep test is a combination of a rapid test and a culture. A rapid strep test is not as conclusive as a laboratory culture, but doctors can often confirm strep in about 15 minutes and prescribe a course of antibiotics if necessary. They usually follow this test by sending the sample to a lab for confirmation by culture, which takes about 24 hours.

The presence of a persistent sore throat should be checked by a doctor, as strep throat left untreated can develop into rheumatic fever, a rare condition that can impact the joints and the heart. Penicillins, Macrolides, and Cephalosporins are common antibiotics prescribed to treat strep throat. In rare cases, recurrent strep throat may result in the removal of the tonsils if it is suspected that they are harboring streptococcus bacteria.

Strep throat is contagious, and children with strep throat should avoid returning to school or daycare until they have been both without fever and taking an antibiotic for 24 hours. Strep throat can be contracted by airborne germs spread by coughing and sneezing, and also by contact with objects an infected person has touched, which is why the condition is common amongst children.

Not all sore throats are strep throat infections, but it is common. If a sore throat disappears shortly after waking or is relieved by drinking fluids, it may be a viral infection. Acetaminophen and ibuprofen can help relieve the pain and discomfort associated with a sore throat. If a sore throat is causing difficulty swallowing, resulting in drooling, or difficulty with breathing, medical attention should be sought immediately.