Streptococcus pyogenes: Understanding Strep Throat - Symptoms & Diagnosis

Streptococcus pyogenes is the bacteria that causes Group A streptococcus infections, also known as strep throat. Strep throat signs can range from mild to severe, but they can usually be managed with antibiotics.

Symptoms

• Symptoms of strep throat include a sudden fever, difficulty swallowing, sore throat, nausea and swollen lymph nodes in the neck.

Diagnosis

• Strep throat is diagnosed with a throat swab. Because most sore throats have viral causes, it is important to diagnose strep throat correctly before treating with antibiotics.

Treatment

• Strep throat is usually treated with antibiotics, such as penicillin or amoxicillin. Drinking warm liquids, sucking on lozenges and taking over-the-counter painkillers may help alleviate symptoms.

Complications

• Complications of strep throat are rare but include ear infection, scarlet fever, sinusitis and rheumatic fever.

Time Frame

• Strep throat is usually cured within a week of treatment.