What should you know about really bad strep throat?

Strep throat commonly presents with a painful throat, fever, red or swollen tonsils, and tender swollen glands in the neck. Some people develop tonsil spots, headache, nausea or abdominal discomfort. Cough, runny nose and hoarseness point more toward a viral illness, although symptoms can overlap. A sore throat does not by itself prove strep throat; a clinician may need a throat swab or other assessment.

Tonsillitis describes inflamed tonsils and may be caused by viruses or bacteria. The treatment depends on the cause, severity, examination and test findings.

Rest, take frequent sips of fluid, choose soft foods, and use suitable pain relief according to the label or a pharmacist’s advice. Avoid sharing cups, utensils or toothbrushes while ill, and wash your hands regularly. If antibiotic treatment is prescribed, take it exactly as directed and complete the course unless the prescriber changes the plan. Do not use someone else’s antibiotics.

Arrange a GP consultation when pain is intense, fever persists, swallowing is becoming difficult, or symptoms are not improving. Seek urgent help for difficulty breathing, drooling or inability to swallow saliva, a muffled voice, severe one-sided throat pain or swelling, neck swelling, confusion, or inability to keep fluids down. These signs can indicate a complication needing prompt treatment.

Ask whether you need a throat test, whether the findings fit strep throat or tonsillitis, and which pain-relief options are suitable. Discuss antibiotic benefits and side effects, contagiousness, return to work or school, and what change should prompt reassessment.