Strep Throat – Causes, Symptoms, and When to Seek Emergency Care
When it comes to throat infections, strep throat is a common concern affecting people of all ages. However, it’s more common in children.
Caused by the streptococcus bacteria, the infection that makes your throat scratchy and sore leads to approximately 5.2 million doctor visits annually.
Left untreated, It can lead to severe complications such as rheumatic fever and kidney inflammation. For this reason, at Post Oak ER, we believe it vital to create awareness about strep throat causes, symptoms to know when to seek medical emergency care.
At Post Oak ER, the emergency room set at the heart of Houston, Texas, we’re happy to provide you with the emergency care that you need during those crucial hours. We’re fast, have no long wait times, and are open 24/7 including holidays.
What is Strep Throat?
Strep throat, also known as streptococcal pharyngitis, is a bacterial infection that primarily affects the throat and tonsils.
It is caused by the group A Streptococcus bacterium, commonly called strep bacteria. This infection can be transmitted through respiratory droplets, such as coughing or sneezing, or by touching surfaces contaminated with the bacteria.
Who is at Risk?
Strep throat can affect individuals of any age, but it is most common among children aged 5 to 15.
The risk factors for developing strep throat include:
Age: As mentioned, children and teenagers are more susceptible to strep throat, primarily due to their developing immune systems.
Close Contact: Being near an infected person, such as within a household or school environment, increases the risk of contracting strep throat.
Weakened Immune System: individuals with compromised immune systems due to conditions like HIV/AIDS, undergoing chemotherapy, or taking immunosuppressant medications are at higher risk.
Common Symptoms of Strep Throat
Recognizing the symptoms of strep throat can help in seeking timely medical care. While some of these symptoms may overlap with a common cold or viral infection, strep throat typically presents the following:
- Sudden and severe sore throat
- Difficulty swallowing
- Red and swollen tonsils, often with white patches or streaks
- Tiny red spots on the roof of the mouth
- Fever, usually above 101°F
- Headache and body aches
- Loss of appetite
- Swollen lymph nodes in the neck
- Fatigue and general malaise
When to Seek Emergency Medical Care
Strep throat doesn’t always require a trip to the ER. Many patients can manage it with rest, over-the-counter pain relievers, and antibiotics prescribed by a healthcare professional.
However, certain warning signs indicate the need for immediate medical attention. If you or your loved one experience the following, please visit our ER for an evaluation.
Difficulty Breathing: If breathing becomes increasingly difficult or you experience shortness of breath, it may indicate a severe infection or complications.
Swelling on Either Side of the Throat: Swelling that affects your throat or tongue can impede breathing and requires urgent evaluation.
Severe Throat Pain: Intense throat pain that worsens and makes swallowing virtually impossible.
Dehydration: Signs of dehydration, including extreme thirst, dizziness, dry mouth, reduced urination, or inability to keep fluids down.
High Fever: A persistent high fever (above 103°F) that does not respond to fever-reducing medications may indicate a more severe infection.
Coughing Blood: If you develop a cough or notice blood in your sputum, please seek emergency care.
Worsening symptoms: If your symptoms worsen despite taking prescribed medications, don’t delay seeking medical attention.
Strep throat might be a common bacterial infection, but its complications can have dire consequences on your health.
Therefore, if you think you or someone you love may have developed strep throat complications, come to Post Oak ER for an evaluation and treatment. Our skillful doctors can quickly diagnose and treat your infection so you can feel better faster.
At Post Oak Care ER, we offer free medical screening in case you are not sure whether or not it’s a medical emergency. Knowing the difference could help save a life. We’re safe, fast, and open 24/7.
We Are Here to Help
Our expert doctors and caring staff are here 24/7 to provide a helping hand with all your medical emergency needs. We’re located at 5018 San Felipe St, Houston, TX 77056.
At Post Oak ER, we believe everyone should have access to quality medical emergency care near them in a comfortable and convenient location that offers advanced technology and skilled medical professionals.
Where to go in Case of an Emergency?
At Post Oak ER, our doors remain open to provide care for you and your family.
Looking for the best quality 24-hour Emergency Room services?
If an emergency strikes, you have a choice! At Post Oak ER we’re open during all weekends, and holidays & offer FREE Medical Screening! There is no need to risk your health or your life. Get help from the ER experts when you need it, visit us immediately at 5018 San Felipe St, Houston, TX 77056
.
You may call us, check in online, or walk in as we are always open.
Get back on track to enjoying life, FAST! Here you will find experienced, effective, and caring emergency physicians as well as the best on-site ER technology for everything from minor to major injuries and conditions.
- CT Scan, Digital X-Ray & Ultrasound
- Certified Full-Service Diagnostic Laboratory
- Specialized Pediatrics ER Care Facilities