Overview

Strep throat is a bacterial infection that causes sudden, severe sore throat and fever. Symptoms may include red, swollen tonsils that may be covered with white patches. A strep test may be needed to tell if the sore throat is caused by strep bacteria. Treatment can help ease symptoms and may prevent future problems.

How can you care for yourself at home?

• Take your antibiotics as directed. Do not stop taking them just because you feel better. You need to take the full course of antibiotics.
• Strep throat can spread to others until 24 hours after you begin taking antibiotics. During this time, avoid contact with other people at work, school, or home, especially infants and children. Do not sneeze or cough on others, and wash your hands often. Keep your drinking glass and eating utensils separate from those of others. Wash these items well in hot, soapy water.
• Gargle with warm salt water several times a day to help reduce swelling and relieve pain. Mix 1/2 teaspoon (2.5 mL) of salt in 1 cup (250 mL) of warm water.
• Take an over-the-counter pain medication, such as acetaminophen (Tylenol), ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), or naproxen (Aleve). Read and follow all instructions on the label.
• Try an over-the-counter anesthetic throat spray or throat lozenges, which may help relieve throat pain.
• Drink plenty of fluids. Fluids may help soothe an irritated throat. Hot fluids, such as tea or soup, may help your throat feel better.
• Eat soft solids and drink plenty of liquids. Flavoured ice pops, ice cream, scrambled eggs, sherbet, and gelatin dessert (such as Jell-O) may also soothe the throat.
• Get lots of rest.
• If you smoke, try to quit. If you can't quit, cut back as much as you can. Smoking can interfere with healing. If you need help quitting, talk to your doctor about stop-smoking programs and medicines. These can increase your chances of quitting for good. If you need help to use less or quit, talk to your healthcare provider, or go to the AlbertaQuits website.
• Use a vaporizer or humidifier to add moisture to the air where you sleep. Follow the directions for cleaning the machine.