Signs of Strep Throat

The signs of strep throat are far from subtle. A very sore throat will be your first sign. If you have the infection, it's pretty easy for your doctor to diagnose. A simple strep throat test or throat culture will be able to determine if you're infected.

Strep throat occurs when the Group A Streptococcus bacteria infects the throat and tonsils. This type of infection can happen to anyone, though it is most common in children and teens.

Strep Throat Symptoms

• A sore throat is the most obvious symptom of strep throat. You're throat will feel very dry and scratchy. The soreness may make it painful to swallow food or drink. 
• A fever that comes on suddenly can be a symptom of strep throat. The fever can be severe or mild, but it will come on quickly.
• Nausea can be a symptom of strep throat. The nausea may be mild or severe. If severe, you may also experience a loss of appetite. The nausea may also induce vomiting and general stomach pains.
• A red throat, often with little white or yellow patches on the tonsils can be a symptom of strep throat. There may also be tiny red spots at the back of your mouth.
• Swollen lymph nodes can be a symptom of strep throat. These nodes are located of both sides of your neck, below the jaw line. If touching this area is painful, the nodes are likely swollen.
• A rash can be a symptom of strep throat. The rash will begin at the neck and spread towards the chest. If left untreated, the rash can spread over the entire body.

Strep Throat Treatment
Most strep throat infections only last about a week, but treatment is available. If you're diagnosed with strep throat shortly after the symptoms began, your doctor will most likely prescribe antibiotics to help fight the infection. However, if you wait too long to visit your doctor, the antibiotics will not help. You will have to just deal with the infection until it clears up on its own.