What should you know about minor strep throat?

Minor strep throat can cause throat pain, fever and swollen glands, and needs assessment before antibiotic treatment. The infection is caused by group A Streptococcus and can resemble viral sore throat. A clinician may examine the throat and use a swab or other test when appropriate rather than relying on symptoms alone.

Strep throat is an infection of the throat and tonsils. Common features include sudden soreness, painful swallowing, fever, tender neck glands and red or swollen tonsils, sometimes with patches. Cough, runny nose or hoarseness can point toward another cause. Mild symptoms can still spread to close contacts, so hand hygiene and not sharing cups or cutlery are sensible precautions.

Rest, drink fluids in small frequent sips and choose soft foods if swallowing hurts. Warm drinks, cool liquids or soothing lozenges may ease irritation when suitable for your age. Use paracetamol or another recommended pain reliever only as directed and check for duplicate ingredients in combination products. If testing confirms strep, take prescribed antibiotics exactly as advised and complete the course unless the prescriber changes the plan.

Arrange a GP consultation for severe or persistent throat pain, fever, a possible strep exposure, or symptoms that are not settling. Seek urgent help for difficulty breathing, inability to swallow saliva, drooling, severe dehydration, a muffled voice, one-sided throat swelling or trouble opening the mouth. Contact a clinician promptly if a prescribed antibiotic causes a serious reaction or symptoms worsen.

Ask whether testing is needed, how to relieve swallowing pain, when you can return to close contact, how to take any antibiotic safely, and what symptoms suggest a tonsil complication.