Natural treatment for strep throat: what to know

Strep throat is an infection caused by Streptococcus bacteria. It can cause a sudden sore throat, fever, painful swallowing, red or swollen tonsils and swollen glands in the neck. Tonsillitis can have viral or bacterial causes, so looking at the throat alone may not confirm strep. Cough, runny nose or hoarseness may point towards a viral illness, but a clinician decides whether testing is appropriate.

Rest, drink cool or warm fluids, and choose soft foods if swallowing hurts. Gargling with warm salt water may soothe the throat for adults and older children who can gargle safely; do not give salt water to drink. Use age-appropriate pain relief only as directed on the label or by a clinician. Wash hands, avoid sharing cups and do not use leftover antibiotics or stop a prescribed course without guidance.

Arrange a GP consultation for a severe sore throat, fever with swollen glands, symptoms that are worsening, or difficulty swallowing. Seek urgent help for trouble breathing, inability to swallow saliva, drooling, severe one-sided throat swelling, dehydration, confusion or a muffled voice. Confirmed strep may need antibiotic treatment after assessment.

Do I need a throat test? Which pain relief is suitable for me? If antibiotics are prescribed, how should I take them and when should symptoms improve?