What You Need to Know About Strep Throat: Causes and Symptoms
What You Need to Know About Strep Throat: Causes and Symptoms
The Big Picture
Strep throat is a common condition caused by Group A Streptococcus bacteria. Understanding its causes and symptoms can help you manage and prevent it effectively.
Contents
- What Causes Strep Throat?
- Recognizing the Symptoms
- Who Is at Risk?
What Causes Strep Throat?
Strep throat is primarily caused by the bacteria known as Group A Streptococcus (GAS). This bacteria can spread through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Close contact settings like schools and daycare centers are common places where the infection spreads.
Recognizing the Symptoms
Symptoms of strep throat typically include a sudden, severe sore throat and pain when swallowing. Other signs can include fever, red and swollen tonsils, and white patches or streaks of pus on the tonsils. It is important to distinguish these symptoms from viral infections that may present similarly.
Who Is at Risk?
Children, especially those aged 5 to 15, are most commonly affected by strep throat. Those in close-contact environments like schools are at higher risk. Adults can also get strep throat, particularly if they are in close contact with children or in crowded settings.
FAQs
What bacteria causes strep throat?
Strep throat is caused by Group A Streptococcus (GAS).
How does strep throat spread?
It spreads through respiratory droplets from infected individuals.
What are common symptoms?
Common symptoms include a severe sore throat and fever.
Who is most at risk?
Children aged 5 to 15 are most at risk.
Wrapping Up
Understanding the causes and symptoms of strep throat is key to managing its spread.
Additional References
- Efstratiou A, Lamagni T. Epidemiology of Streptococcus pyogenes.
- Schwartz RH, Wientzen RL Jr, Pedreira F, et al. Penicillin V for group A streptococcal pharyngotonsillitis.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic.