Strep throat starts to become more common in the Winter months through to early Spring. It is not usually dangerous but can cause some more serious complications if left untreated. Let’s take a look at how to spot strep throat and how Vaughn Pharmacy can help!
What is Strep Throat?
Strep throat is a painful bacterial infection caused by group A Streptococcus bacteria. It is very common in children aged 5 to 15 years but can affect anyone regardless of age. It is characterized by inflammation of the throat and can be spread through coughing and sneezing.
How to Spot Strep Throat
For some people, strep throat is very mild and will result in little more than discomfort. However, it can vary from one person to the next in its severity so it is always worth being vigilant and seeking medical advice if the pain and other symptoms persist for 2 or more days. At Vaughn Pharmacy we offer strep throat testing and can prescribe the appropriate treatment if the result is positive. Not all sore throats are a result of strep, other causes include the common cold, acid reflux or a postnasal drip. The symptoms of strep throat will usually develop within 5 days of infection and can include the following:
- Sudden Onset Fever
- Sore, Red Throat with White Patches
- Headache
- Chills
- Lack of Appetite
- Swollen Lymph Nodes
- Difficulty Swallowing
How is Strep Throat Treated?
As noted, Vaughn Pharmacy can diagnose strep throat via a test on a swab taken from your throat. If this tests positive for the strep bacteria, we are able to help with treatment of the infection. Commonly, this will mean a course of antibiotics such as penicillin or amoxicillin. IF issued with antibiotics it is important to keep taking them for the entire course rather than stopping part way through because you start to feel better. A complete course is needed to kill the infection properly. While antibiotics will help to fight the infection, you may also want additional advice regarding the other symptoms. The staff at Vaughn Pharmacy will be happy to guide you in this matter. Some of the suggestions they may offer will include:
- Drinking Warm Liquids like Tea to Sooth a Painful Throat
- Sucking on Lozenges
- Gargling with Salt and Water
- Over the Counter Pain Relief
Once you begin a course of treatment for a case of strep throat, the symptoms should improve with a week or so. However, if it is left untreated it can lead to complications such as secondary infections, sinusitis, and even rheumatic fever. As a general rule, if there is no improvement within 48 hours of beginning treatment, you may need to make an appointment with your doctor. It could be that a different antibiotic would be more effective, or that another course of treatment is required. Remember that at Vaughn Pharmacy we are always here to offer advice if you have concerns.
Your Hometown Pharmacy Since 1966
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Vaughn Pharmacy is a local, family-owned pharmacy serving the community in Powell, TN. Specializing in providing personalized and attentive prescription programs to our patients, we believe you are more than just a number – you’re part of our family!
(865) 947-1581