Untreated chlamydia: Risks, complications, and more

How To Recognize Strep Throat

Symptoms of strep throat can include irritation, pus buildup, white patches, and small red spots in the throat.

Strep throat is a bacterial infection that results from contact with the A Streptococcus bacteria. This bacteria can be present in a person's nose and throat and transmits via airborne droplets in their breath. Step A infections are typically easily treatable with antibiotics.

This article details the symptoms, causes, and treatments of strep throat.

Strep throat can cause many uncomfortable symptoms. Examples include:

When a person with strep throat opens their mouth and looks inside, they will likely see:

The back of the roof of the mouth is inflamed and reddened. This area is called the soft palate.

An uvula that appears swollen and red and may be covered with white or yellow patches. This is the small piece of flesh that hangs from the back of the soft palate.

Tonsils that are enlarged and extend past the soft palate. They may have white or yellow patches or streaks covering them. The tonsils are the two masses at the back of the throat, one on either side.

The back of the throat may have small red bumps or streaks on it.

Below are pictures of strep throat.

A 'sore throat' is an umbrella term encompassing many conditions and causes. A person's throat may be sore due to injury, burns, infections, and irritation from acid reflux or allergies. Strep throat is a singular form of the latter, and doctors can perform tests to differentiate it from other causes.

A visual examination and a strep test can typically diagnose strep throat. A strep test involves using a swab to take a saliva sample from the back of the throat. Doctors can test this sample for the presence of strep bacteria.

In addition to a visual exam and quick strep test, there are a few symptoms that could indicate that it is strep throat rather than another illness. For example, a strep infection is more likely to involve a fever than a viral infection.

Another difference is that strep throat usually doesn't cause a cough, runny nose, or watery eyes. Viral infections and mucus in the throat from allergies or other conditions are more likely to cause a cough.

After confirming the diagnosis, the doctor will prescribe antibiotics, usually penicillin or amoxicillin.

Antibiotics can shorten the time that symptoms last, reduce the risk of transmitting the bacteria to others, and lessen the chance of further conditions, such as rheumatic fever, developing.

If the sore throat is caused by a virus, antibiotics will not work and they will not be prescribed.

The bacteria that cause strep throat are group A Streptococcus. This bacteria can live in the human body without causing any symptoms but can still transmit at this stage.

Droplets in a person's breath can carry infectious bacteria. Sneezing, sharing utensils, or touching an object after a person with strep throat has touched it can all spread the infection.

People with weakened immune systems, open wounds, and those already experiencing viral infections such as colds and the flu may be more likely to get strep throat.

Anyone with a fever greater than 101 F and other strep throat symptoms should see their doctor. The presence of a fever can signal a bacterial infection that antibiotics may be able to treat.

In severe instances, strep throat can cause infections in areas other than the throat. Examples include any peritonsillar abscesses, ear, and blood. For this reason, it is important to seek treatment and to get a definitive diagnosis.

Peritonsillar abscesses are areas of pus-filled tissues at the back of the throat, next to the tonsils.

Antibiotics won't treat other causes of an irritated throat, and taking medicines that aren't needed can mean they work less well when someone really does have a bacterial infection.

Strep throat will usually go away without treatment.

However, the risk of some complications increases without treatment:

A doctor may recommend treatment with antibiotics to prevent these. Recurrent episodes may require tonsillectomy.

Strep throat is a bacterial respiratory infection that can cause inflammation, soreness, and discoloration in the throat.

The infection can be transmitted between people through airborne vapors and through contact with the bacteria on surfaces.

Serious complications are uncommon, and people may carry the infection without symptoms. Doctors can prescribe antibiotics to treat the underlying infection, and recovery is typically quick.

Drugs & Medications A-Z

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Considering taking medication to treat chlamydia coinfection with gonorrhea of the throat? Below is a list of common medications used to treat or reduce the symptoms of chlamydia coinfection with gonorrhea of the throat. Follow the links to read common uses, side effects, dosage details and read user reviews for the drugs listed below.

medications found for chlamydia coinfection with gonorrhea of the throat

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Drug Name Indication Type User Reviews

Throat Spray User's Guide

Most throat spray brands direct you to spray once directly to the back of your throat. You usually let throat spray stay in place for a short time before spitting it out. How often you can use it depends on the brand.

Sore throat symptoms can make it hard to speak or swallow. Even a minor sore throat can cause pain, scratchiness, and irritation that interferes with day-to-day life.

Over-the-counter sore throat remedies, like throat spray, can provide comforting relief. But figuring out how to use throat spray effectively can be confusing.

Throat sprays won't cure your sore throat but can temporarily relieve symptoms. In this article, we'll explain how throat spray works and provide information on how to use it.

Even though throat sprays don't require a prescription, you should only use them according to package directions. Accidental overuse of throat spray is common but should be avoided, especially if you're treating a young child.

Different brands may have slightly different directions, so checking the directions on the label is important. But generally, you can follow these steps:

Check the dosing amount before use.

Take the cap off the spray nozzle. Ensure the nozzle opening is clean and free of product residue.

Spray the product toward the back of your throat as many times as directed (usually once or twice).

Either gargle or allow the throat spray to stay in place for 15–60 seconds or according to package directions.

Spit out the excess amount.

Throat sprays are intended to provide fast relief from discomfort.

You may feel a numbing sensation within 15–30 seconds after applying throat spray to the affected area. In general, you can expect to feel a significant reduction in symptoms, like pain and scratchiness, within 5–10 minutes.

Symptom relief from throat spray is temporary and varies between brands.

The numbing sensation caused by throat spray should last for around 2 hours. If you're dehydrated, you may feel your symptoms return more quickly. Drinking fluids like warm tea or cool water can help you maintain symptom relief for longer periods.

It's possible, or even likely, that your symptoms will return before it's time to respray your throat. Even so, it's important to only use this product according to a healthcare professional's instructions or the manufacturer's directions.

You can typically use throat spray once every 2 hours up to four times daily. Many products are not intended for use for longer than 2 days without a healthcare professional's approval.

The most common side effect of throat spray is mild to severe irritation in the mouth or throat. You may also feel a mild tingling sensation.

If you feel uncomfortable after using throat spray, discontinue its use and let a healthcare professional know.

It's possible to be allergic to ingredients like phenol or dyclonine. If you know or suspect you're allergic to these substances, don't use a throat spray that contains them. Allergic reactions to throat spray can cause symptoms such as:

itchy rash or hives

swelling of the face, throat, lips, or tongue

blisters

wheezing

tight feeling in the throat or chest

trouble breathing or swallowing

hoarseness

If you're pregnant or nursing, experts recommend consulting a healthcare professional before using throat spray.

Many throat sprays are not meant for use in children under 12 years old, though some allow for use in children as young as 3 years old. Don't use throat spray on the gums to numb teething pain in your infant. Make sure you read the label instructions before use.

Some throat sprays contain benzocaine. According to the Food and Drug Association (FDA), overuse or misuse of benzocaine in people of any age may cause methemoglobinemia, a rare but potentially life threatening condition.

If your symptoms worsen or persist for more than 7 days, stop using throat spray and see a healthcare professional. You may have a condition that requires prescription medication or other types of treatment.

Can you swallow throat spray?

Throat spray is not meant to be swallowed, but don't panic if a small amount accidentally trickles down your throat. Swallowing more than indicated may cause mild stomachache or other gastric symptoms.

Many throat sprays taste like cherry or mint. Make sure to keep these products out of reach of children. Drinking throat spray can cause an overdose or accidental poisoning. If this occurs, seek immediate medical help or call Poison Control at 800-222-1222.

Do you spit out throat spray?

Yes. After gargling throat spray, you should spit it out.

Should I drink water after throat spray?

Try to wait several minutes after using throat spray before you drink water. This will give the product time to work and eliminate the possibility of accidental digestion.

Hydration during illness is important, but you may also wish to avoid eating or drinking while your throat is numb.

When should I use throat spray?

Your symptoms may feel worse when you first wake up in the morning. Using throat spray at that time may be a good idea.

You may also benefit from using throat spray right before bed if your symptoms make it hard to fall asleep.

Keep in mind that throat sprays aren't cures. Don't rely on throat spray if you have a high fever, swollen tonsils, a rash, or other troubling symptoms. Instead, see a healthcare professional for treatment.

Can I use throat spray for tonsillitis?

Tonsillitis is an infection usually due to a virus or bacteria. You can use throat spray to help your throat feel more comfortable, but it won't cure tonsillitis.

Throat spray is an over-the-counter, at-home remedy that can help reduce sore throat symptoms. These products are usually safe when used as directed.

Some throat sprays are not appropriate for use in young children. You may also want to consult a healthcare professional before using throat spray if you're pregnant or nursing.

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