Strep throat: Symptoms, causes & treatment

Strep throat is a common bacterial infection that affects the throat and tonsils, causing significant pain and discomfort. It is also highly contagious and often leads to symptoms such as a sore throat, fever, and swollen lymph nodes (glands). Strep throat can affect people of all ages, but it is most common in school-aged children (ages 5–15) and is uncommon in children younger than 3 years old, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP). Read on to learn more about strep throat symptoms, causes, prevention, and treatment options.

What is strep throat?

Strep throat is an infectious illness caused by Group A Streptococcus bacteria, according to the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP). It primarily affects the throat and tonsils and often begins suddenly, leading to throat pain that can make swallowing difficult.

Although strep throat is particularly common in children, it can occur at any age. However, strep throat is rare in children under age 3, and sore throats in toddlers are more commonly caused by viruses.

The AAFP explains that strep throat is contagious and can easily spread from person to person. The bacteria are typically transmitted through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Sharing food, drinks, or utensils with someone who has strep throat can also increase the risk of infection. Practicing good hygiene, such as frequent handwashing and avoiding close contact with sick individuals, can help minimize the spread.

Is strep throat contagious?

Yes, strep throat is highly contagious. It is caused by Group A Streptococcus bacteria, which can be transmitted through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks, according to the CDC.

Close contact with someone who has strep throat — such as hugging, kissing, or sharing drinks or utensils — can also spread the infection. Additionally, the bacteria can survive briefly on surfaces, meaning someone may become infected after touching a contaminated surface and then touching their mouth or nose. This is why good hygiene is especially important in schools, daycare settings, and other communal environments.

Strep throat symptoms

Recognizing the symptoms of strep throat is important because it can help you or your child get timely diagnosis and treatment.

Common symptoms of strep throat, according to the CDC, include:

• Throat pain that can be significant

• Painful swallowing

• Red and swollen tonsils, sometimes with white patches or streaks of pus

• Fever, often above 101°F (38.3°C)

• Headache

• Body aches or general discomfort

• Rash, which may appear in some cases

• Nausea or vomiting, particularly in younger children

• Swollen lymph nodes in the neck

• Loss of appetite

How strep throat differs from a typical cold

Many respiratory viruses can cause a sore throat, and most sore throats are caused by viral infections rather than strep bacteria.

Strep throat is more likely when symptoms begin suddenly and include fever, painful swallowing, swollen lymph nodes, and red tonsils with white patches — without typical cold symptoms.

If a sore throat occurs along with a runny nose, cough, hoarseness, or nasal congestion, a viral illness such as the common cold is more likely than strep throat.

Because symptoms can overlap, healthcare providers often use testing to confirm whether strep is present.

Strep throat prevention tips

Preventing strep throat is one of the best ways to reduce the risk of infection, especially in places where bacteria spread easily, such as schools, daycares, nursing homes, and hospitals. Practical tips from the CDC include:

• Wash your hands frequently with soap and water, especially after coughing, sneezing, or being in public places.

• Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer when soap and water are not available.

• Cough and sneeze into a tissue or your elbow to prevent the spread of respiratory droplets.

• Avoid sharing cups, utensils, or personal items with others.

• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.

Strep throat treatment

Doctors typically begin the treatment process by performing a physical exam and may conduct a rapid strep test or throat culture to confirm the presence of Group A Streptococcus bacteria, according to the CDC. Because symptoms alone cannot reliably distinguish strep throat from viral infections, testing is important before antibiotics are prescribed.

If the test is positive, doctors will often prescribe antibiotics, which can help eliminate the bacteria, reduce the length of symptoms, and lower the risk of complications. Common antibiotics for strep throat include penicillin and amoxicillin. The CDC notes that antibiotics also reduce the risk of complications such as rheumatic fever or kidney inflammation.

In addition to antibiotics, supportive care may help relieve symptoms. This can include:

• Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen (as appropriate for age)

• Drinking plenty of fluids

• Getting adequate rest

• Using throat lozenges or warm saltwater gargles (for older children and adults)

The CDC stresses that it is important to complete the full course of antibiotics, even if symptoms improve, to ensure the infection is fully treated and to prevent recurrence.

When to see a doctor for strep throat

While some sore throats can be managed at home, certain symptoms may indicate the need for medical evaluation, according to the AAFP.

Signs you should see a doctor include:

• Swollen lymph glands in the neck that are painful or tender

• A sore throat that lasts longer than 48 hours without improvement

• A persistent fever, especially if it exceeds 101°F (38.3°C)

• A sore throat accompanied by a rash

• Difficulty breathing or swallowing

• Severe headache or stomach pain that occurs alongside throat symptoms

For children younger than 3 years old, strep throat is uncommon. However, infants and toddlers with high fever, difficulty swallowing, dehydration, or any breathing concerns should be evaluated promptly.

Urgent care near me

If you or your child has symptoms that may suggest strep throat, an urgent care provider can perform a rapid strep test and recommend appropriate treatment. Use Solv to find and book same-day appointments for top-rated urgent care clinics, lab tests, and telehealth visits. Download the Solv app today — convenient care, simplified with Solv.