Strep throat is inflammation of the throat, tonsils and lymph
nodes due to infection with group A streptococcus bacteria. Strep throat
is very common during the flu seasons and it can be preceded by mild
symptoms such as runny nose, sneezing or cough. The incubation period of
strep throat is around 3-5 days and most symptoms occur within this
period of time. Common symptoms of strep throat are: throat inflammation
and swelling, difficult swallowing, difficult breathing,
mucus-producing cough, fatigue, body weakness, headache, nausea, poor
appetite, enlargement of the lymph nodes and tonsils, excessive sweating
and fever.
Strep throat is very contagious and the bacteria
responsible for causing the illness can be easily transmitted from a
person to another by direct touch, sneezing or coughing. In order to
prevent infection with streptococcus bacteria, it is very important to
maintain proper personal hygiene and to avoid entering in contact with
infected people. The persons affected by strep throat should also take
measures in avoiding spreading the bacteria to others.
Untreated
strep throat can lead to serious complications and doctors usually
recommend a course of antibiotics to most people affected by strep
throat. With appropriate medical treatment, the illness can be overcome
quickly, minimizing the risk of developing complications.
Although
they can't replace medical treatments completely, there are various
home remedies that can quickly relieve the symptoms of strep throat and
speed up the process of recovery. Corroborated with proper rest, an
appropriate diet and plenty of fluids, natural remedies can quickly deal
with the undesirable effects of strep throat.
Chamomile tea is
one of the best natural remedies for strep throat. Its analgesic
properties can provide rapid relief for throat pain and headaches.
Administered every few hours, chamomile tea can also reduce fever and
prevent dehydration. A very strong natural remedy, sage can reduce
inflammation, protecting the soft tissues of the throat and respiratory
system. Sage can be used either under the form of tincture or under the
form of capsules. Thanks to its antibiotic properties, garlic is also an
appropriate home remedy for strep throat.
Gargling with salt
water can fight against bacteria and can reduce throat inflammation and
pain, while saline nasal sprays can help decongest the airways clogged
with mucus. When suffering from strep throat, it is very important to
maintain a warm temperature in your bedroom and to increase the air
humidity by using mist humidifiers. You should avoid exposure to
chemicals or irritants such as cigarette smoke and alcohol vapors. You
should keep away from any substance with strong, persistent odor in
order to prevent further inflammation of the respiratory system's soft
tissues and membranes.
It is recommended to avoid drinking cold or
very hot beverages, as they can cause throat irritation and pain,
slowing down the process of healing. Also, keep away from spicy and
irritant foods, as they are not tolerated well by an inflamed throat.
When suffering from strep throat, you should only eat soft foods such as
soups, yogurts, mashed potatoes, and non-irritant fruits.
