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Why do I get strep throat?
Can a recurring infection cause strep throat?
Is strep throat a common reason for a sore throat?
Aug 25, 2022 · Recurring strep throat is when you get reinfected multiple times in one respiratory season (fall and winter). Some people tend to be more prone to developing frequent infections. Researchers have identified that those who get recurrent infections tend to have fewer antibodies and a less robust immune response to infection.
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Signs and symptoms of strep throat can include:
•Throat pain that usually comes on quickly
•Painful swallowing
•Red and swollen tonsils, sometimes with white patches or streaks of pus
•Tiny red spots on the area at the back of the roof of the mouth (soft or hard palate)
•Swollen, tender lymph nodes in your neck
Call your doctor if you or your child has any of these signs and symptoms:
•A sore throat accompanied by tender, swollen lymph glands
•A sore throat that lasts longer than 48 hours
•A fever
•A sore throat accompanied by a rash
•Problems breathing or swallowing
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Strep throat is caused by infection with a bacterium known as Streptococcus pyogenes, also called group A streptococcus.
Streptococcal bacteria are contagious. They can spread through droplets when someone with the infection coughs or sneezes, or through shared food or drinks. You can also pick up the bacteria from a doorknob or other surface and transfer them to your nose, mouth or eyes.
Several factors can increase your risk of strep throat infection:
•Young age. Strep throat occurs most commonly in children.
Spread of infection
Strep bacteria may spread, causing infection in:
Inflammatory reactions
Strep infection may lead to inflammatory illnesses, including:
To prevent strep infection:
•Wash your hands. Proper hand-washing is the best way to prevent all kinds of infections. That's why it's important to wash your own hands regularly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Teach your children how to wash their hands properly using soap and water or to use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer if there is no soap and water available.
•Cover your mouth. Teach your children to cover their mouths with an elbow or tissue when they cough or sneeze.
•Don't share personal items. Don't share drinking glasses or eating utensils. Wash dishes in hot, soapy water or in a dishwasher.
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By Mayo Clinic Staff
•Know the signs of strep throat in children
Apr 29, 2024 · Yes, yes you can. You can also get strep three times. Four times. Over and over and over again, really. Because the bacteria that causes strep ( group A Streptococcus bacteria) is a tricky little bugger. We talked with pediatrician Kristin Barrett, MD, about what causes recurring strep throat. And what to do when strep throat comes back.
Jan 31, 2023 · According to Dr. Redding, there are several reasons you may get frequent strep throat infections: A hidden carrier. If there is someone you are in close contact with, they could be a strep carrier. Your child, your partner or a coworker could have the bacteria that causes strep in their nose and throat but not show any strep throat symptoms.
Nov 20, 2023 · Strep throat can spread quickly and easily, especially during late winter and early spring. It causes: 20% to 30% of sore throats in children; 5% to 15% of sore throats in adults. Strep throat symptoms. Common symptoms of strep throat include: red, sore, inflamed throat and tonsils; red spots on the roof of the mouth; pain when swallowing ...
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Dec 20, 2022 · Strep throat is an infection in your throat and tonsils caused by a type of bacteria called group A Streptococcus (group A strep). Strep throat causes severe inflammation and a sore throat. A healthcare provider can typically diagnose the condition with a rapid strep test or a throat culture.
May 16, 2024 · Strep throat is an infection of the throat and tonsils caused by a bacteria called group A streptococcus, which is also known as Streptococcus pyogenes. This bacteria lives in the...
