Strep throat is a bacterial infection caused by Group A Streptococcus. It primarily affects the throat and tonsils, causing pain, swelling, and other symptoms such as fever and difficulty swallowing.

While a sore throat from a cold is usually accompanied by a runny nose and cough, strep throat symptoms often include severe throat pain, fever, swollen lymph nodes, and white patches on the tonsils. A throat swab test can confirm if it’s strep throat.

Strep throat is diagnosed through a physical examination and a throat swab test. The test identifies the presence of Group A Streptococcus bacteria.

Antibiotic therapy is the primary treatment for strep throat. It helps to eliminate the bacteria, reduce symptoms, and prevent complications. At-home remedies like warm fluids and saltwater gargles can also help alleviate discomfort.

Strep throat is highly contagious and spreads through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks. It can also spread via shared surfaces or utensils.

While some cases of strep throat may improve without treatment, antibiotics are necessary to fully eliminate the bacteria, reduce symptoms quickly, and prevent serious complications like rheumatic fever.