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The Duration Dilemma: How Long Does Strep Throat Last?

Key Highlights:

Introduction

Have you ever had a nasty sore throat, so painful that swallowing felt like a chore? That might be strep throat. This common infection tends to give doctors a run for their money when it comes to diagnosis. Unlike a routine sore throat, strep throat poses bigger risks due to its bacterial nature. Wondering about its duration and potential pitfalls? We’ve got you covered!

We’ll walk you through all you need to know about strep throat – from its onset to recovery. You’ll also learn the ‘why’s’ and ‘how’s’ – why it happens and how it can be diagnosed, treated, and prevented. And, importantly, we’ll clear up the confusion between a regular sore throat and strep throat.

Did You Know?

Briefing on Strep Throat

Before we jump into the details, let’s take a short tour of what strep throat is all about.

Causes of Strep Throat

The culprit behind strep throat is often group A Streptococcus, a bad guy in the form of a bacterium.

How it Spreads

Symptoms of Strep Throat

Strep throat has a stealth mode. It doesn’t show any visible signs on your skin. However, the real chaos happens internally.

Common Symptoms

Severe Symptoms

While these symptoms are not as common, they indicate that the infection is more severe:

There are many different types of bacteria and viruses that can cause a sore throat. Many of the symptoms overlap between the agents causing sore throat (pharyngitis), streptococcal throat infection being one of them and therefore it is very difficult to differentiate between strep pharyngitis and other causes of pharyngitis without testing.

Dr. Ashish Bajaj, M.B.B.S., M.D. in Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology

Diagnosing Strep Throat

Think you might have strep throat? Here’s what to do and what to expect during a doctor’s visit.

1. When should you see a doctor?

If you’ve got strep throat symptoms for more than a couple of days, it’s best to see a healthcare provider. Particularly if you have been around a strep throat sufferer.

2. Diagnostic Processes for Strep Throat

Two main steps help identify if you have strep throat.

3. Physical Examination

At first, your doctor will check for strep-related signs and symptoms. These include:

4. Throat Culture

To confirm if it’s strep throat, your doctor will swab the back of your throat. Results can take up to two days.

Symptoms of strep throat infection usually begin to subside after 2-3 days of initiating the antibiotics. Since, this is a bacterial infection of throat, complete the full course of antibiotic as prescribed by your doctor. Patients often stop the medicines as soon as they start feeling better on the second day but this can lead to antibiotic resistance.

Dr. Arpit Verma, MBBS, MD (Pharmacology)

Treating Strep Throat

Once confirmed that it’s strep throat, let’s discuss the treatment options available and how to gear up for your doctor’s appointment.

1. Antibiotics for Strep Throat

Your healthcare provider may prescribe antibiotics, likely penicillin or amoxicophen if diagnosed with strep throat. If taken within 48 hours of the onset of the illness, antibiotics reduce the duration and severity of symptoms, as well as the risk of complications.

2. Symptom Relief for Strep Throat

Managing strep throat symptoms can help make the healing journey a bit less painful.

3. Home Remedies

Home treatments could also help with throat pain and swelling:

Ready for your Doctor’s Appointment

There are a few things you can do while waiting to see the doctor.

What to Expect

The doctor will do a routine check-up and might take a swab from your throat to test for strep throat.

What to do in the meantime

Try these strategies while waiting to visit your doctor:

Usually streptococcal sore throat lasts for 7 – 10 days without treatment. Following antibiotic treatment, patients may see the resolution of symptoms within one to 3 days and may return to work or school after 24 hours of treatment.

Dr. M.G. Kartheeka, MBBS, MD(Pediatrics)

The Risks, Prevention, and Complications of Strep Throat

Let’s shine a light on the possible pitfalls and ways to prevent them.

1. Risks of Strep Throat

Your chances of getting strep throat rise if you’re near a person with strep throat.

2. How to Sidestep Strep Throat

Keeping clean and staying away from someone with strep throat can help dodge the infection.

3. Hygiene Habits

These habits can fend off strep throat:

4. Stay Away from Carriers

Avoid being near a strep throat sufferer at least till they’ve been on antibiotics for a day or two.

5. What If Strep Throat Is Ignored?

Not treating strep throat can lead to kidney disease and rheumatic fever, a rare disease that harms the heart.

Let’s recap the risks, prevention, and possible complications of strep throat:

Strep Throat RisksWays to Avoid Strep ThroatPossible Outcomes of Untreated Strep Throat
Nearness to a strep throat carrierStay clean & avoid contact with infected personsKidney disease, Rheumatic fever

Assessing The Length of Strep Throat

Knowing how long strep throat lasts can help you better navigate the recovery process.

1. Typical Recovery Time

With treatment, you could start feeling better in one to two days. Full recovery usually takes about a week. Without treatment, it still gets better in five to seven days but with a higher risk of problems.

2. Recovery with or without Antibiotics

Medical treatment can greatly impact the recovery timeline.

3. Treatment Speeds Recovery

With antibiotics, most people start to feel better within one or two days. They can return to normal life after a day of taking antibiotics. It normally takes about a week to fully recover.

4. No Treatment Equals Slower Recovery

Without antibiotics, strep throat generally takes five to seven days to improve. But, you risk staying contagious longer and inviting potential complications.

5. Just How Catchy Is Strep Throat?

Strep throat is highly catchy. Carriers can spread the infection until they’ve been on antibiotics for a day or two. If untreated, you can spread it to others for 21 days or more.

Strep Throat Vs Ordinary Sore Throat

Strep throat and a simple sore throat often get mixed up due to similar symptoms. It’s important to tell them apart for accurate treatment.

1. Telling Apart Strep Throat from an Ordinary Sore Throat

Sore throat and strep throat may seem alike, but they are different in terms of symptoms, causes, and treatment plans.

2. Look Out for These Symptoms

A sore throat and strep throat both cause throat pain. But strep throat could also come with:

3. Different Causes

A viral infection like the common cold or the flu usually causes a sore throat. On the other hand, a bacterial infection (Group A Streptococcus) causes strep throat.

Here’s a helpful table on the difference between strep throat and a common sore throat:

TypeSymptoms of Strep ThroatSymptoms of a Sore Throat
CausesSore throat, white patches on tonsils/throat, tiny red spots on the roof of the mouth, might feel nauseous, or vomitSore throat only
CausesBacteria (Group A Streptococcus)Typically, virus (common cold, flu)

Conclusion

While strep throat is a common ailment, it deserves careful attention due to the discomfort and potential problems if ignored. Although it may seem mild, swiftly treating it is important to avoid serious issues down the road. Always consult with your healthcare provider at the onset of strep-like symptoms.

Never overlook antibiotics for treating strep throat and cutting down its course. Stick to your prescribed meds for full recovery. And keep in mind – easing symptoms and preventing spread also matter while you’re on the mend.

In short, knowing how to tell strep throat from a regular sore throat empowers you to make safer health decisions. Remember, when unsure, always turn to your healthcare provider for advice.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How long does an untreated strep throat last?

If left untreated, strep throat can last from 5 to 7 days. However, treatment speeds recovery and prevents potential complications.

What can result from ignoring strep throat?

Untreated, strep throat can lead to kidney problems and rare rheumatic fever. It could also cause an abscess next to the tonsils or scarlet fever.

How can I speed up recovery from strep throat?

Quickly recovering from strep throat requires taking the full course of prescribed antibiotics, drinking lots of fluids, resting, and using over-the-counter remedies for symptom relief.

Can a strep throat get better on its own?

Although strep throat could get better after about a week, antibiotics are necessary. This cuts down on symptom duration, avoids problems, and reduces infection spread chances.

References:

  1. National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI). Chamomile: A herbal medicine of the past with bright future – PMC [Internet]. [cited 2023 Jul 17]. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2995283
  2. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Strep Throat: All You Need to Know [Internet]. [cited 2023 Jul 17]. Available from: https://www.cdc.gov/groupastrep/diseases-public/strep-throat.html
  3. National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI). Streptococcal Pharyngitis [Internet]. [cited 2023 Jul 17]. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK525997
  4. National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI). Rapid Tests for the Diagnosis of Group A Streptococcal Infection: A Review of Diagnostic Test Accuracy, Clinical Utility, Safety, and Cost-Effectiveness [Internet]. [cited 2023 Jul 17]. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK532707
  5. National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI). The Mysteries of Streptococcal Pharyngitis – PMC [Internet]. [cited 2023 Jul 17]. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4486489
  6. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Pharyngitis (Strep Throat) [Internet]. [cited 2023 Jul 17]. Available from: https://www.cdc.gov/groupastrep/diseases-hcp/strep-throat.html
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Home Remedies For Strep Throat By Dr. Rajeev Singh

Introduction: 

Strep throat can make your throat sore and scratchy, and it’s really not the best feeling to talk with a throat like that. Strep throat infection is a bacterial infection of the throat and tonsils and is caused by a group of bacteria called Streptococcus (group A strep).

Strep throat infection is common in children between the ages of five to fifteen years. Adults might also develop a strep throat. Rarely 1 in 10 adults with a complaint of the sore throat might actually have a strep throat. A strep throat infection is highly contagious and can be easily transmitted from an infected to a healthy person by inhaling contaminated air.

Let’s know more about some natural remedies for strep throat that might help you right in the comfort of your home. 

Did you know?

What Causes Strep Throat: 

Streptococcus species (Group A Streptococci) is the causative agent of strep throat. These bacteria are the natural flora that reside in our nose and throat. They are easily transferred from person to person and are highly contagious.  

When an infected person speaks, coughs or sneezes, tiny respiratory droplets containing these bacteria are released from the mouth that contaminates the surrounding air. When a healthy person inhales this contaminated air, they might catch the infection. In this way, you can get a strep throat infection.1 

The most common causes of strep throat are:

An effective remedy for streptococcal throat infection involves gargling a solution of betadine and water in addition to the prescribed antibiotics. If needed, doctors may also prescribe gargles with pain relief ingredients to ease the discomfort while swallowing.

Dr. Arpit Verma, MBBS, MD (Pharmacology)

Also Read: Natural Home Remedies for Sinus Problems

Symptoms of Strep Throat: 

Fever without cough and pain are the two main symptoms and signs of strep throat. It can be a mild infection, but people might experience a lot of pain. Some people may remain asymptomatic, meaning they do not show any symptoms of sore throat. These people are called “carriers” of infection and can still spread it to others1 

The most common strep throat symptoms are:

Other symptoms of strep throat may be:

Also Read: Natural Home Remedies for Pneumonia

Home Remedies for Strep Throat: 

Strep throat can be a mild infection, but its pain might lead to a discomforting feeling, If you are searching for how to cure strep throat naturally 1 Here are some natural remedies for strep throat that you can try, which are easily available in your kitchen. 

1. Lemon 

Lemons contain powerful antioxidants like vitamin C. It may act as an immunity booster. Lemon juice might be beneficial in breaking down the mucous-containing bacteria and providing pain relief. Lemons might also offer natural ways to heal a painful strep throat.2 

You can use lemon juice as one of the home remedies for strep throat. Drinking warm water with one teaspoon of lemon juice might help you to relieve the throat pain.2   

2. Honey 

The best strep throat home remedies might just be honey. It may be due to the natural antibacterial properties and wound-healing action of honey. It may relieve the pain and inflammation associated with strep throat. According to a physician at Penn Medicine, honey may have the potential to kill bacteria and help fight infections.2 

 A few tablespoons of honey may be taken with warm water or tea. Drink this a couple of times a day to help ease the throat pain. It’s important to note that honey is not suitable for children under the age of one.2 

3. Ginger 

Ginger may have beneficial properties and may be used for sore throat remedies It contains valuable phytochemicals such as zingerone, paradols, shogaols, and gingerols. It may have antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties.3 

You can make ginger tea at home. Take some fresh ginger roots, crush and add them to boiling water. Give it a nice boil for a few minutes; strain the liquid and remove the used ginger before drinking. Your ginger tea is ready! Sip this as many times as you like each day. It will help in pain relief. 

4. Salt water 

Salt water may be used as a part of strep throat self-care, serving as a natural remedy to alleviate the condition. It might not provide immediate relief; however, it may be useful for killing the bacteria causing strep throat. It might also help to loosen mucus and ease the pain. You can take some table salt in a glass of warm water, stir well, and use it to gargle.2 You may use salt water to swish around your mouth for about a few seconds. Repeat this several times throughout the day until you are relieved of the pain. 

5. Hot sauce 

The hot sauce might be used to provide quick pain relief. Hot sauce is made from pepper which is high in capsaicin (an active compound). The hot sauce might be used to relieve strep throat. You can add a few drops of hot sauce into warm water and use it to gargle. The capsaicin in the hot sauce may provide pain relief and reduce inflammation.2 

6. Herbal teas 

Herbal tea such as green tea, clove, chamomile, raspberry, and peppermint tea might be the best option for strep throat treatment at home. The beneficial effect of green tea is due to its polyphenol content, mainly catechins. Green tea and clove tea may have antibacterial and antioxidant activities. Peppermint, raspberry, and chamomile tea may help relieve the pain and reduce inflammation. Peppermint tea may help numb the throat and reduce pain. 

In addition, chamomile tea might be a natural lubricant and may help to overcome hoarseness in voice.4 

You can easily make green tea at home. Buy locally available green tea in the form of leaves or a tea bag. Add the loose leaves or a tea bag in boiling water. Allow it to boil for a few minutes and use the water after straining the leaves. Your green tea is ready to be served. Drink it a few times a day for best results. 

7. Red root 

Red root might be one of the best herbal remedies for strep throat. The red root may have an antibacterial effect. It might help overcome the scratchiness associated with strep throat. It may be used as a herb to manage strep throat in people who do not prefer antibiotics. Red root might be effective for swollen lymph glands and inflamed throat tissues. You can use the herbal mixture of the red root. It can be diluted in water and either swallowed or gargled a few times each day. 5 

8. Marshmallow  

Marshmallow or Mallow species are flowering plants scientifically known as Althaea officinalis. Acold infusion of marshmallows may be one of the best home remedies for strep throat in children. The cold-infusion can be sipped in small doses if you feel the slightest hint of a scratchy throat.5 

You can prepare a pint of cold infusion of marshmallows by adding a few tablespoons of the ground herb in a cloth bag to a pint jar filled with cold water. Let the infusion sit overnight and remove the bag in the morning you can refrigerate the cold infusion and use as and when needed .5 

Though there are studies that show the benefits of the herbs mentioned above and home remedies in the condition, these are insufficient. Therefore, there is a need for further studies to establish the true extent of the benefits of these herbs and home remedies for strep throat treatment. Thus, these should be taken with caution and never as a substitute for medical treatment. 

Also Read: Simple Home Remedies for Wheezing

When to Seek Medical Help:  

Take an appointment with your doctor if your throat infection refuses to get better even after trying the home remedies.2 You should seek medical attention if your strep throat is accompanied by- 

These might be the signs of developing a serious illness.2  

You must not rely on home remedies alone for strep throat treatments. You should always consult a qualified doctor for treatment of strep throat infection if the symptoms don’t improve. 

Also Read: The Duration Dilemma: How Long Does Strep Throat Last?

Strep Throat vs Sore Throat

Sore Throat:

Strep Throat:

Distinguishing between the two is crucial for appropriate care and to prevent potential complications associated with strep throat. Seeking professional medical advice is recommended for accurate diagnosis and treatment.

Conclusion: 

The reason behind your scratchy throat might be a bacterial infection. Group A Streptococcus bacteria cause strep throat infection. It is common in children and adults. Strep throat infection is highly contagious and easily spread through the air. The early signs of strep throat are fever and throat pain.  Various home remedies such as lemon juice, salt water gargling, honey, ginger, hot sauce gargle, green tea, red root, and marshmallow infusion, might be used to manage strep throat. However, it’s advisable to seek medical attention in case of prolonged Strep throat to avoid further complications. 

Also Read: Home Remedies For Asthma By Dr. Siddharth Gupta

Frequently Asked Questions: 

What is strep throat?

Strep throat is a bacterial infection caused by Streptococcus pyogenes, also known as group A streptococcus. It leads to a sore and inflamed throat, often accompanied by symptoms like fever, difficulty swallowing, and white patches on the tonsils. Strep throat is typically treated with antibiotics prescribed by a healthcare professional.

What are the common antibiotics recommended by doctors for strep throat?  

Doctors recommend either amoxicillin or penicillin as the first choice of treatment for strep throat infection.1 

Which is the major microbes causing strep throat infection? 

Strep throat infection is caused by a bacterium called Streptococcus (Group A streptococcus).1 

What are the primary precautions to prevent strep throat infection? 

People may get strep throat more than once. As there is no permanent cure, people must follow general precautions to prevent its spread. One must regularly wash hands with soap for about 20 seconds.  If soap and water are unavailable, use alcohol-form hand rub-sanitisers.It is important to cover your mouth using tissue paper when you sneeze and cough and discard the used tissue. Other than these, washing the utensils after an infected person uses them is necessary.1 

What are the possible home remedies for strep throat? 

The potential home remedies for strep throat include honey, ginger, lemon juice, salt water, hot pepper sauce, green tea, red root, marshmallow, etc.  2-5 However, people should not rely on home remedies. Consultation with a doctor is important to avoid further complications. 

Which herbal teas can be used to manage strep throat? 

Herbal teas, such as green tea, clove, chamomile, raspberry and peppermint tea maybe a great choice for managing strep throat infection. They may have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects to help fight the infection and relieve pain. Chamomile tea might be used as a lubricant if your voice is hoarse or in case of difficulty in speaking. Peppermint tea may help with throat pain by numbing thethroat.2 

Is strep throat contagious without a fever?

Yes, strep throat is contagious even without a fever. It can be transmitted through close contact with an infected person, regardless of their fever status.

Is strep throat curable?

Yes, strep throat is curable with appropriate antibiotic treatment prescribed by a healthcare professional. It is important to complete the full course of antibiotics to ensure complete recovery and prevent potential complications.

Is strep throat viral or bacterial?

Strep throat is a bacterial infection caused by the group A Streptococcus bacteria. It is not a viral infection.

Is strep throat deadly?

Strep throat is typically not deadly when promptly diagnosed and treated with antibiotics. However, if left untreated, it can lead to complications that may be serious. It’s essential to seek medical care for proper management.

Is strep throat same as tonsillitis?

Strep throat and tonsillitis are related conditions, but they are not the same. Strep throat specifically refers to an infection caused by the streptococcus bacteria, while tonsillitis is the inflammation of the tonsils and can have various causes, including viral and bacterial infections, with streptococcus being one of them.

 Is strep throat airborne?

Strep throat is not typically considered an airborne disease. It primarily spreads through direct contact with respiratory droplets from an infected person, such as through coughing or sneezing. It’s important to practice good hygiene and avoid close contact to reduce the risk of transmission.

Can adults get strep throat?

Yes, adults can get strep throat, and recognizing symptoms of strep throat in adults is crucial. Strep throat can affect individuals of all ages, although it is more common in children and adolescents. Proper diagnosis and treatment with antibiotics are essential for recovery and to prevent complications.

Can you get strep throat without tonsils?

Yes, it is possible to get strep throat even if you don’t have tonsils. Strep throat is caused by an infection with Streptococcus bacteria, and it can affect various parts of the throat and mouth, not just the tonsils.

Can dogs get strep throat?

Dogs can contract a streptococcal infection, but it’s different from strep throat in humans. Strep throat is caused by Streptococcus bacteria specific to humans, and it’s uncommon for dogs to develop a similar condition. If a dog appears to have a throat or respiratory issue, it’s best to consult with a veterinarian for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Can babies get strep throat?

Yes, babies can get strep throat, Strep throat in kids can sometimes present differently than in adults. Strep throat can occur at any age, and if symptoms suggest an infection, it’s important to consult a pediatrician or healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.

Can you die from strep throat?

While rare, severe complications from untreated strep throat can be life-threatening. These complications, such as rheumatic fever or kidney problems, may occur if strep throat is not properly treated with antibiotics. It is crucial to seek medical attention and follow the prescribed treatment to prevent such complications.

Can you get strep throat from oral sex?

Yes, it is possible to contract strep throat through oral sex if one of the partners has a streptococcal infection in their throat or mouth. Engaging in safe sexual practices and maintaining good oral hygiene can help reduce the risk of transmission. If symptoms of a streptococcal infection occur, seek medical advice.

Can you have a cough with strep throat?

Coughing is less common with strep throat compared to other respiratory infections like the common cold. Strep throat typically presents with symptoms like sore throat, fever, and difficulty swallowing, but a cough may occasionally be a symptom in some cases. If you have concerns about your symptoms, it’s advisable to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Can strep throat last for months?

Strep throat is typically a short-term infection that can be effectively treated with antibiotics. If symptoms persist for an extended period or recur, it may be a sign of a different underlying issue, and it’s important to seek medical evaluation to determine the cause and appropriate treatment.

What does strep throat look like?

Strep throat doesn’t have a distinct visual appearance. It often presents as a red and swollen throat with white patches or pus on the tonsils, but the definitive diagnosis is made through a throat swab and laboratory testing by a healthcare professional.

How do you get strep throat?

Strep throat is usually contracted through close contact with an infected person who is coughing or sneezing, or by touching surfaces contaminated with streptococcal bacteria and then touching the mouth or throat. It’s important to practice good hygiene and avoid close contact to reduce the risk of transmission.

What does strep throat feel like?

Strep throat often feels like a severely sore and scratchy throat, accompanied by pain when swallowing. Other common symptoms include fever, swollen lymph nodes, and white patches or pus on the tonsils. If you suspect strep throat, it’s advisable to consult a healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment.

Does strep throat go away on its own?

Strep throat typically does not go away on its own and requires treatment with antibiotics. Without proper medical intervention, it can lead to complications and may persist or worsen. Seeking medical advice and following prescribed treatment is essential for recovery.

 How to get rid of strep throat overnight?

It’s not typically possible to get rid of strep throat overnight. Strep throat usually requires a full course of prescribed antibiotics for effective treatment. Rest, staying hydrated, and following your healthcare provider’s recommendations can help alleviate symptoms over a few days, but recovery takes time.

Can strep throat go away on its own?

Strep throat typically does not resolve on its own and usually requires antibiotic treatment. Leaving strep throat untreated can lead to complications and prolong the illness. Seeking medical advice and following prescribed treatment is essential for a full recovery.

How long does strep throat last?

Strep throat symptoms typically improve within 3 to 7 days with appropriate antibiotic treatment. Without antibiotics, the illness may last longer, and complications can arise. Seeking medical attention promptly ensures a faster recovery and reduces the risk of complications.

Can cats get strep throat?

Cats cannot contract strep throat from humans as the Streptococcus bacteria that cause strep throat are species-specific. While cats can develop throat infections, they are typically caused by different bacteria or viruses. If concerned about a cat’s health, consulting a veterinarian is advisable for accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

How contagious is strep throat?

Strep throat is highly contagious and spreads through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Close contact with an infected individual or touching surfaces with the bacteria can lead to transmission, emphasizing the importance of practicing good hygiene to prevent its spread.

References 

1. Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). [Internet]. Strep Throat: All You Need to Know; 2007 [cited 2022 Jul 11]. Available from: https://www.cdc.gov/groupastrep/diseases-public/strep-throat.html 

2. Penn Medicine. [Internet]. 6 At-Home Remedies to Ease Your Sore Throat; 2022 [cited 2022 Jul 11]. Available from: https://www.pennmedicine.org/updates/blogs/health-and-wellness/2018/february/sore-throat?_ga=2.149510006.1759347718.1657514818-126493995.1657514818 

3. Mashhadi NS, Ghiasvand R, Askari G, Hariri M, Darvishi L, Mofid MR. Anti-Oxidative and Anti-Inflammatory Effects of Ginger in Health and Physical Activity: Review of Current Evidence. Interna J of Preven Med. 2013;4(1):36–42. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3665023/pdf/IJPVM-4-36.pdf 

4. Neturi R, Srinivas R, Vikram Simha, Sree S, Chandra Shekar, Siva Kumar. Effects of Green Tea on Streptococcus mutans Counts- A Randomised Control Trail. J Clin Diagn Res. 2014;8(11):128–30. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4290345/pdf/jcdr-8-127-ZC128.pdf 

5. Eric Yarnell, Kathy Abascal. Undervalued Herbs. Alternative And Complementary Therapies. 2011;17(4):220–4. Available from: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/282715102_Undervalued_Herbs_Use_in_Clinical_Practice_and_Need_for_Validating_Research/link/56a6c1aa08ae0fd8b3fc739e/download 

Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.

Links and product recommendations in the information provided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any changes.

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6 Natural Home Remedies for Strep Throat

We all are aware of the scratchy burning painful feeling of a sore throat. It badly affects our everyday chores like talking or gulping our food or merely even swallowing our saliva. Usually, strep throat can be cured within a day or two, and home remedies work best for it. Let’s understand in detail the symptoms and easy-to-follow home remedies for strep throat.

What is Strep throat?

Strep throat is a common bacterial infection that can cause a sharp itching pain in your throat. It is mainly caused by group A streptococcus and hence the name of the infection. This pain can happen due to inflammation. It may be observed in persons of any age, although prevalence may be higher among children due to chances of multiple exposures. It is usually accompanied by fever or cold. 

Symptoms of Strep throat 

Symptoms may vary from person to person, some may face very severe symptoms and some may have mild symptoms. It is a contagious disease and mainly can spread through sneezing or coughing.

Sore throat is one of the common symptoms faced by children and even adults. Other moderate to severe symptoms include:

Usually, these symptoms may appear within 5 days of exposure to the bacteria and if treated immediately with medicines or home remedies, it can be cured within 2 to 3 days. These home remedies can help suppress the symptoms, let’s understand natural home remedies for strep throat:

1: Gargle with warm salted water.

Add  ½ tsp of salt to 1 cup of warm water and gargle it first thing in the morning. Repeat this activity for at least 3 to 4 times in day. Gargling with salt water helps draw the liquid and the virus or bacteria on the surface and spiting later helps remove them.

2: Suck on throat lozenges 2 to 3 time’s day.

This will help relieve the itchiness and the juice will help keep the area moist and lubricated which can ease a few of the symptoms like swallowing and nausea. Do not opt for this option in case you suffer from high blood sugar. 

3: Go for ginger tea.

Ginger has been scientifically studied to help relieve sore throat by its anti-inflammatory action. It can also help improve the immune system to help fight infections like strep throat. Sip in ginger tea twice a day.

4: Go for Soft Cooked Meals.

Choose soft cooked foods till your symptoms may ward-off. Include soft fruits and vegetables, milkshakes, smoothies, or soft meal preparation like khichdi, neer dosa, mashed potatoes, etc.

5: Say No to Pungent Foods.

Avoid drinking acidic and pungent foods like orange juice, brinjals, cabbage, etc. these foods may give you that itchy feeling in your throat.

6: Try Apple Cider Vinegar.

Apple Cider Vinegar is acidic and when used for gargling can help kill the harmful bacteria and help remove the phlegm from the throat. Mix 1 teaspoon of apple cider vinegar in 1 cup of water and use it for gargling.

Strep Throat typically goes away with these home remedies within a week. However, we always recommend you consult your doctor before trying these home remedies for strep throat and combine it with the medicines. Since the infection is contagious always cover your mouth while sneezing and coughing and take complete good rest for 2 to 3 days.

7. Try using essential oils

Essential oils help reduce strep throat infection, like peppermint, lemon or thyme. Peppermint oil is a great essential oil for a sore throat. It reduces swelling in the throat, which is why it’s often used for the treatment of respiratory infections. It causes a cooling sensation and a calming effect on the body because it has menthol. Add 1-2 drops of peppermint oil to a glass of water or to your toothpaste to use it internally. For topical use, apply 1-2 drops to your throat, chest and temples.

Thyme oil supports the immune and respiratory systems, making it one of the best strep throat home remedies. A study conducted in 2011, published in Medicinal Chemistry involved testing thyme oil’s response to 120 strains of bacteria, taken from patients with infections of genitourinary tracts, oral cavity and respiratory. Results showed strong activity against all clinical strains. It also showed effectiveness to resist antibiotic-resistant strains. You can use thyme oil as a mouthwash by adding 2 drops to water and gargling.

Prevention

To prevent the spread of infection further, establish minimum contact with others in order to stop the bacteria from spreading. 

Give all the love and care to your gullet!

Read more about: 10 Best Types Of Teas to Relieve Your Cough And Cold

Disclaimer: The information included at this site is for educational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a health care professional. Because of unique individual needs, the reader should consult their physician to determine the appropriateness of the information for the reader’s situation.