Strep not getting better with antibiotics

Persistent symptoms can happen when the illness is viral rather than bacterial, when doses were missed or not absorbed, or when another throat problem is present. The prescribed antibiotic may also need review because of an allergy, interaction, or a diagnosis that has changed. Ongoing soreness does not by itself prove that the medicine has failed.

Cough, hoarseness, or runny nose can fit a viral illness, while severe one-sided pain, swelling, or difficulty opening the mouth can signal a complication. An examination helps separate these possibilities.

Check the label and take each dose as prescribed unless a clinician tells you to stop. Tell the prescriber about missed doses, vomiting, new medicines, allergies, and any worsening symptoms. Drink regularly, choose soft foods if swallowing hurts, and avoid smoking or other throat irritants.

Do not double a missed dose, use leftover medicine, or ask for a different antibiotic without review. Keep a brief symptom record so the clinician can see what changed after treatment began.

Get urgent medical help for trouble breathing, inability to swallow saliva, drooling, rapidly increasing neck or throat swelling, severe dehydration, confusion, or a muffled voice. Contact your clinician promptly for persistent fever, worsening pain, a new rash, or symptoms that improve and then return.

Ask whether the original diagnosis was confirmed, whether another test or examination is needed, whether your dose and schedule are suitable, and which symptoms require emergency care.