Strep throat is a common infection, and it’s typically not a cause for any huge concern. However, even though this is the case, strep throat can get out of control if it isn’t treated on time and in the right way.

Our AFC Urgent Care Bronx Webster Ave. team provides other helpful information about strep throat below, so keep reading!

What Is Strep Throat?

Strep throat is a bacterial infection that is caused by group A Streptococcus bacteria, which causes throat pain and inflammation.

Strep throat is most common in young children, but people of all ages can get it. If you aren’t sure whether you have strep throat, we’ve listed some of its common symptoms below.

Common Strep Throat Symptoms

• A sudden fever, especially if it’s 101˚F or higher
• A sore, red throat with white patches
• A headache
• Chills
• A loss of appetite
• Swollen lymph nodes in the neck
• Trouble swallowing

What Happens If Strep Throat Isn’t Treated?

If strep throat is left untreated, the strep bacteria can spread throughout the body. If this happens, it can lead to serious complications, such as the ones we listed in the section below. Antibiotics are almost always needed to totally rid the body of strep bacteria.

To reduce your risk of getting strep throat this winter, it’s important to wash your hands often, avoid people who are sick, cover your mouth when you cough and avoid sharing personal items.

Complications Caused By Untreated Strep Throat

• Rheumatic fever—an autoimmune disease that may develop after a strep throat infection. It’s especially common among children ages 5–15, although older teens and adults may develop the disease.
• Otitis media—when strep throat bacteria move into the inner ear and cause an ear infection. Bacteria in the inner ear can cause severe pain, dizziness and nausea.
• Meningitis—occurs when the fluid surrounding the membranes of the brain and spinal cord become infected. In rare cases, meningitis can be fatal.
• Pneumonia—when the bacteria that cause strep throat move into the lungs.
• Toxic shock syndrome—in rare cases, the bacteria can enter the bloodstream. If the bacteria release toxins in multiple organs while in the bloodstream, it causes toxic shock syndrome, which can result in catastrophic organ failure.

Do you need a strep test? We provide them at AFC Urgent Care Bronx Webster Ave., so don’t hesitate to get yours today!