Strep throat
Most sore throats are caused by viruses, and will not respond to antibiotics. They need good self-care, pain relief, fluids and time to get better. Some sore throats are caused by bacteria, and these will tend to need a course of antibiotics to get better.
‘Strep throat’ is a colloquial term used to describe a bacterial throat infection caused by streptococcus bacteria. Group A Streptococcus is one of the causes of bacterial sore throat, and it usually produces more severe symptoms than a viral sore throat. You may have severe pain, fever, swollen lymph nodes in the neck, an absence of other viral symptoms such as cough, and symptoms that last longer than a viral infection would be expected to last.
If your doctor suspects a bacterial throat infection, they may take a swab to check the bacteria. Or if they are confident, may start a course of antibiotics immediately.
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Is it contagious?
Bacterial infections such as'strep throat' are contagious, and can be passed on like most infections via respiratory droplets from the nose throat or mouth. You can wear a mask, avoid close contact with others, and maintain strict hand-washing to avoid spreading the bacteria to others.
Healthwords pharmacists' top tips
Antibiotics from your doctor will kill the bacteria, but here are some additional products that can help with some of the symptoms whilst you're getting back to your best self;
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Pain relievers such as those containing Paracetamol, or anti-inflammatories containing either aspirin or ibuprofen.
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Anaesthetic lozenges or sprays to numb the pain locally such as Strepsils, Tyrozets or Covonia throat spray.
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A localised anti-inflammatory spray or throat rinse such as Difflam.
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Gargling with salt water may give some temporary symptom relief.
Pharmacy Treatments
Am I fit for work?
If you have strep throat, you are not fit for work.
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