However, the CDC state that those who do not test positive for strep throat do not need to take medication. It typically takes a day or two for someone with strep throat to start feeling better after starting antibiotic treatment. A doctor will typically prescribe antibiotics to treat strep throat, usually penicillin or amoxicillin. The CDC state that in most cases taking antibiotics reduces:.
Even though someone may start to feel better within a day or two of starting antibiotic treatment, always take antibiotics exactly as prescribed. Do not stop taking antibiotics early, as doing so might lead to more severe infections or complications. Several at-home remedies may also help soothe a sore throat , most of which focus on keeping the mouth or throat moist and avoiding irritants.
The CDC indicate that the most common symptoms of strep throat are a painful sore throat that can come on very quickly and red, swollen tonsils. Strep throat is a bacterial infection that occurs due to a bacteria called Streptococcus pyogenes S.
The CDC state that group A strep bacteria typically live in the throat and nose and spread through tiny droplets of infected mucus or moisture. But the only way to definitively diagnose strep throat is to run a rapid strep test. In some cases, a doctor may also perform a throat culture, which involves culturing throat samples from a swab for a day or two.
According to the CDC, strep throat is more common in children, typically aged 5—15 years old. Although it is more common in children, adults who may be more likely to contract the bacteria are parents of children who go to school or are in contact with children. The best way to reduce the risk of getting strep throat is to avoid exposure to infected droplets.
According to the CDC , common prevention methods include:. Complications are uncommon. Strep throat spreads from person to person through respiratory droplets and saliva. Coughing, sneezing and sharing cups or eating utensils will spread the infection. It takes two to five days after being exposed to the bacteria to start to develop symptoms. Generally, symptoms of strep throat start to improve in hours after beginning treatment. To help soothe a sore throat, try drinking warm liquids, such as lemon tea or tea with honey.
You can also gargle several times a day with warm salt water; use a half-teaspoon of salt in 1 cup water. You can also drink cold liquids, or suck on popsicles, hard candies or throat lozenges.
Remember to avoid giving young children hard candies or throat lozenges, as they can choke on them. Acetaminophen and ibuprofen can also be very helpful.
So it's very important to take the full day course of antibiotic when you're treated for strep throat. Even though you may feel better in just a few days, finish the antibiotic.
We'll notify you here with news about. Don't take antibiotics Don't take antibiotics You try home treatment for your sore throat.
You can: Gargle with salt water. Take over-the-counter medicine such as aspirin or ibuprofen to relieve pain. If your sore throat is caused by a virus, it will likely go away on its own in 4 to 5 days. If you have strep throat, which is caused by bacteria, it will likely go away on its own in 3 to 7 days. You save money on medicine. You don't have the side effects from antibiotics.
If your sore throat is caused by a virus, there are no risks or side effects of not taking antibiotics. If your sore throat is caused by bacteria: You may be sick a day or so longer than if you do take antibiotics. You have a higher risk of the infection spreading to other parts of your body, such as your ears or sinuses. You could make other people around you sick if you are still contagious. Personal stories about taking antibiotics for sore throat These stories are based on information gathered from health professionals and consumers.
What matters most to you? Reasons to take antibiotics for a sore throat Reasons not to take antibiotics for a sore throat. I'm not worried about the risk of taking antibiotics too often. I'm worried about the risks of taking antibiotics too often. I've had a sore throat for just a few days. My other important reasons: My other important reasons:. Where are you leaning now? Taking antibiotics NOT taking antibiotics. What else do you need to make your decision?
Check the facts. Yes You're right. No Sorry, that's not right. I'm not sure It may help to go back and read "Get the Facts. Yes Sorry, that's not right. No You're right. Decide what's next. Yes No.
I'm ready to take action. I want to discuss the options with others. I want to learn more about my options. Your Summary. Your decision Next steps. Your knowledge of the facts Key concepts that you understood. Key concepts that may need review. Getting ready to act Patient choices. What matters to you. Print Summary. Credits Credits. Get the facts Compare your options What matters most to you?
Get the Facts Your options Take antibiotics for a sore throat caused by a bacterial infection. Compare your options Take antibiotics Don't take antibiotics What is usually involved? You take an antibiotic, usually penicillin, for as long as your doctor prescribes. You try home treatment for your sore throat. Check the facts 1. Do most sore throats go away on their own? Yes No I'm not sure.
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