Strep throat is basically a kind of sore throat. Most sore throats are caused by viral infections, but strep throat is the result of infection by group A streptococcus bacteria, and is more severe than a regular sore throat. Cough and nasal congestion are usually absent in a strep throat infection, unless there is a secondary viral infection. The main symptom is a particularly severe sore throat — painful inflammation of the throat, difficulty swallowing, white and yellow patches on the throat, and sometimes even on the tonsils. Other symptoms may include fever, abdominal pain, and nausea.
Home Remedies for Strep Throat
With strep throat, medical treatment is usually necessary. Home remedies and general precautions can be taken only to minimize discomfort and pain and to prevent the spread of the infection to other members of the household. First of all, avoid smoking, second hand smoke and all other pollutants, and also avoid spicy food. If swallowing is particularly painful, you can avoid solid food as well, as long as you get enough nourishment. To soothe your throat, a warm salt water gargle works best. Do this several times a day. You can also drink chamomile tea with honey a couple of times a day. However, be sure to visit a doctor if you see no improvement within two days, as strep throat can have serious complications.
answered by G M