Understanding Strep Throat (Faringitis Estreptocócica) in Spanish

Understanding Strep Throat (Faringitis Estreptoccica)

Strep throat, known as faringitis estreptoccica in Spanish, is a common bacterial infection that causes inflammation and pain in the throat. It is caused by group A streptococcus bacteria and leads to fever, sore throat, and swollen tonsils.

What Causes Strep Throat?

Strep throat is transmitted through direct contact with mucus or saliva particles from an infected person. When someone coughs or sneezes and tiny droplets containing the bacteria land on another persons nose or mouth, they may develop strep throat in 1-5 days.

Sharing food items or drinks with an infected person can also lead to transmission. Strep throat is very contagious, so it's important to isolate oneself during the illness.

Strep Throat Symptoms

The most common faringitis estreptoccica symptoms include:

• Severe sore throat
• Pain or difficulty swallowing
• Fever over 101F
• Pus spots on the back of the throat
• Red and swollen tonsils
• Swollen lymph nodes in the neck
• Headache
• Rash
• Fatigue or muscle aches

In children, abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting may also occur. Seek medical attention promptly at the first signs of infection before complications develop.

Complications of Strep Throat

While strep throat generally resolves on its own, some dangerous complications can develop if left unchecked, such as:

• Scarlet fever rash
• Kidney inflammation (glomerulonephritis)
• Rheumatic fever
• Abscesses around tonsils
• Inflammation of blood vessels and tissues from autoimmune reactions

Scarlet fever occurs when the streptococcus bacteria produce toxins that trigger a red, bumpy rash on the skin. Strep throat can also enable certain immune cells to mistakenly attack proteins in the kidney or heart valves, leading to more infections.

Diagnosing Strep Throat

To check for strep throat, a doctor will physically examine the throat and tonsils for inflammation. They may also order tests such as:

• Rapid antigen detection test: Quick swab of throat fluid to detect antigens
• Throat culture: Lab test that confirms presence of bacteria
• Complete blood count (CBC): Checks white blood cell levels
• ASO titer blood test: Measures antibodies fighting infection

Diagnosing faringitis estreptoccica properly is crucial before determining treatment options. Cultures provide the most accurate results.

Treating Strep Throat Effectively

Strep throat often resolves without medication within 3-7 days. But antibiotics may speed healing and prevent spread of infection. They are necessary in the following cases:

• Positive lab test for strep bacteria
• Presence of scarlet fever rash
• Past history of rheumatic fever or glomerulonephritis
• Infection lasting over 2 weeks
• Very severe symptoms

First Line Antibiotics

Penicillins are standard first choice antibiotics against susceptible strep throat bacteria. Some common options include:

• Amoxicillin
• Penicillin V
• Benzathine penicillin injection

These drugs may cause side effects like rash, nausea, and diarrhea. Those allergic to penicillin can use cephalosporins or macrolides instead.

Alternative Antibiotics

For penicillin-allergic patients or antibiotic-resistant strep infections, alternatives like erythromycin, azithromycin, clarithromycin are given. In severe cases where oral medication is not possible, IV antibiotics may be administered.

It is crucial to complete the entire antibiotic course, even after feeling better, to eradicate residuals and prevent relapse or drug resistance.

Supportive Home Care Remedies

In mild cases without complications, certain home remedies can support the healing process:

• Gargle warm salt water to soothe pain
• Drink lemon-honey tea to reduce inflammation
• Eat soft, cool foods like popsicles or gelatin
• Take OTC pain medications like acetaminophen or ibuprofen
• Use a humidifier for moist air
• Rest completely until recovered

Avoid irritants like spicy food or smoke during illness. See a doctor if severe symptoms last over 48 hours despite home care.

Preventing Strep Throat from Spreading

Strep throat prevention comes down to good hygiene habits like:

• Washing hands properly
• Covering coughs and sneezes
• Avoiding sharing drinks/utensils
• Disinfecting surfaces
• Treating wounds properly to avoid infection

Having a well balanced diet and staying hydrated also helps boost immunity against infections. Certain healthy lifestyle factors like exercise and not smoking also lower risk.

While no strep throat vaccine exists currently, researchers are investigating options. For now prompt diagnosis and antibiotic treatment of active infections is key to prevent transmission.

Understanding the causes, symptoms, diagnosis and management of faringitis estreptoccica can help deal with this unpleasant but treatable infection. Seeking early medical care is vital, especially when complications could arise. With proper care, strep throat can usually be cured within a week.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.