Sore Throat (Pharyngitis) & Strep Throat

Although some of the symptoms may feel similar, a sore throat is not the same as a strep throat.

Sore throat

A sore throat (the medical name is pharyngitis) can be caused by a variety of things. Some of the culprits, according to the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP) include:

• viruses, similar to those that cause colds (Read about "The Common Cold")
• irritants such as air pollution or smoking (Read about "Quit Smoking")
• allergies (Read about "Allergies")
• bacteria (Read about "Microorganisms")
• post nasal drainage

Although most people consider a sore throat to be more of an irritating condition, a chronic sore throat or a persistent cough can indicate an underlying medical problem. (Read about "Tonsils and Adenoids" "Vocal Problems: Laryngitis and Vocal Growths" "Head and Neck Cancers" "Occupational Respiratory Diseases") Therefore, if a sore throat persists, you should see your doctor or healthcare specialist.

Strep throat

A strep throat is a particular kind of sore throat, caused by a specific bacterium called Group A Streptococcus. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), strep throat is more common in children than adults. It's not something to take lightly since serious complications can occur if it is not treated with antibiotics. (Read about "Antibiotics") CDC says potential complications include:

• scarlet fever
• rheumatic fever (Read about "Rheumatic Fever")
• ear infections (Read about "Otitis Media")
• pneumonia (Read about "Pneumonia")
• inflammation of the kidneys called glomerulonephritis (Read about "Kidney Disease")

In addition to being more serious than other types of sore throat, strep throat is often accompanied by other symptoms. In adults, AAFP says strep throat may be accompanied by fever, headache, white patches inside the throat and swollen glands. Children with strep throat may develop a rash. (Read about "Skin Rash") Because of the potential for complications, if anyone, adult or child, has a sore throat for more than a few days, they should see a doctor.

Treatment options

If a sore throat is caused by a virus or irritation, antibiotics won't help. If a doctor suspects a strep throat, he or she may do tests. If strep is present, antibiotics will be prescribed. It's important to follow directions exactly. (Read about "Medicine Safety")

As for feeling better, there are some things that can help, according to AAFP:

• Acetaminophen, ibuprofen or naproxen can provide some relief. Sometimes, even if you are given antibiotics, you will be advised to take these for fever or pain control. Ask your doctor what's best for you.
• Gargle with warm salt water (1 teaspoon of salt per glass of water).
• Throat lozenges or hard candy may be helpful.
• Humidifiers can be used if dry air is contributing to the problem.

Finally, if a strep throat is present, a patient should avoid unnecessary contact with other, as strep is very contagious. CDC says it is easily spread when an infected person coughs or sneezes contaminated droplets into the air and another person inhales them.

Related Information:

    Respiratory System

    The Common Cold

    Allergies

    Mononucleosis

    Fighting Workplace Germs

    Influenza