Home remedies for strep throat

Strep throat is a bacterial infection of the throat. People may notice a sore throat, fever, painful swallowing, and swollen neck glands; cough and a runny nose may point more towards a viral illness, although symptoms overlap. A sore throat does not confirm strep throat. A clinician may use the examination and, when appropriate, a throat test to decide whether antibiotic treatment is needed.

Drink water or warm fluids, select soft foods, and rest. Gargle with warm salt water if you can do this safely, and avoid smoking or smoky rooms. Use a suitable pain or fever medicine according to the label and your clinician’s advice. Do not share antibiotics or use leftovers. If antibiotics are prescribed, take them exactly as directed and ask what to do if a dose is missed or side effects occur. Wash hands and avoid sharing cups while unwell.

Arrange a GP consultation when strep throat is suspected, symptoms are intense, or fever and swollen glands accompany throat pain. Seek urgent help for breathing difficulty, drooling, inability to swallow fluids or saliva, a muffled voice, severe one-sided swelling, dehydration, or rapidly worsening illness. Contact the prescriber if a suspected allergic reaction or troublesome medicine effect develops after treatment.

Ask whether your symptoms need a throat test, whether antibiotic treatment is appropriate, and when you can return to normal activities. Mention allergies, pregnancy, regular medicines, fever, rash, swollen glands, and any difficulty swallowing or breathing.