Common symptoms of strep throat are:

• Pain or difficulty when swallowing
• Swollen and red tonsils
• Small red spots on the back of the roof of the mouth
• Tender and swollen lymph nodes in the neck
• Fever
• Headache
• Chills
• Loss of appetite
• Nausea and vomiting in younger children

Strep throat is caused by the bacteria Streptococcus. It can spread from person to person through airborne droplets (coughs and sneezes) or by touching infected hard surfaces. Cases are more common in the winter or early spring and among young children.

Strep throat is contagious and can be spread from person to person. To prevent getting and passing strep throat, consider following the tips below:

Prevent Getting Strep Throat

• Wash your hands frequently
• Avoid contact with people who are sick
• Drink plenty of fluids
• Get enough sleep

Prevent Passing a Sinus Infection

• Wash your hands frequently
• Cover your mouth when you cough or sneeze
• Avoid sneezing or coughing into your hands
• Stay home while you are sick and contagious
• Complete the course of prescribed antibiotics

It is important to treat strep throat - the sooner, the better. Contact your doctor or view the Need Care Now? section below.

Types of treatment

Several treatments can help you alleviate and manage your discomfort. 

• If you are confirmed to have strep throat, your provider will prescribe antibiotics
• Over-the-counter medications such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen
• Increase your water intake
• Avoid caffeine
• Gargle salt water
• Use throat lozenges