Strep Throat: Symptoms, Testing and Treatment

Strep throat is a bacterial throat infection that can cause sudden soreness, fever and painful swallowing.

It is also called streptococcal pharyngitis. It affects the throat and tonsil area, and its symptoms can overlap with viral throat infections. A clinical assessment and, when appropriate, a throat test help distinguish the cause and guide treatment.

Sore throat and fever are very common presentations of strep throat. Difficulty swallowing and swollen glands are also common. Some people notice throat redness, enlarged tonsils, tender neck glands, headache or feeling generally unwell.

Symptoms may begin abruptly. A rash with a sore throat may need prompt assessment because scarlet fever can occur with a streptococcal infection. Seek urgent help for breathing difficulty, inability to swallow saliva, severe dehydration, confusion or rapidly worsening illness.

The infection is caused by group A streptococcal bacteria. It can spread through close contact with respiratory droplets or saliva, including shared drinks or utensils. Exposure does not automatically lead to illness, and symptoms should be assessed in context.

Hand hygiene, covering coughs and sneezes, and avoiding shared personal items while unwell can reduce opportunities for spread.

Close contact in homes, classrooms and other shared settings can make transmission easier. Recent contact with someone who has a confirmed streptococcal infection may be relevant to a clinician, especially when compatible symptoms develop.

A clinician will ask about symptoms, examine the throat and neck, and consider whether testing is useful. A throat swab may be checked with a rapid test or sent for laboratory testing. The result, examination findings and overall illness guide the next step.

A GP consultation can also identify other explanations for throat pain, including tonsillitis, and assess whether urgent care is needed.

When strep throat is confirmed or strongly suspected, a clinician may prescribe an antibiotic suited to the person and their medical history. Take it exactly as directed and do not save or share leftover medicine. Antibiotics do not treat viral sore throats.

Rest, regular fluids and suitable pain or fever relief may make swallowing more comfortable. A pharmacist or clinician can help check what is appropriate if you are pregnant, have long-term conditions or take regular medicines.

Most throat infections improve with appropriate care, but worsening pain, a new rash, neck swelling, trouble opening the mouth or difficulty breathing requires prompt medical attention. Return for reassessment if symptoms are not improving as expected or recur after treatment.

Wash hands after coughing, sneezing and before preparing food. Avoid sharing cups, cutlery, toothbrushes and towels while someone is ill. Clean frequently touched surfaces and follow the clinician's advice about return to school, work or group activities.

A GP can assess a sore throat, arrange testing where appropriate and discuss treatment. Emergency services are appropriate for breathing problems, inability to swallow saliva, severe weakness or signs of serious dehydration.