What can I do for a strep throat?



Strep throat is a common infection of the throat caused by the group A streptococcus bacteria. It is commonly found amongst children and adolescents, but adults can also be infected by these bacteria, which cause irritation in the back of the throat, pain in swallowing, inflammation of the tonsils, fever and general weakness, nausea, diaaarhoea and tender lymph nodes. If ignored and left untreated it could lead to other problems such as rheumatic fever. Highly contagious, strep throat can not be contained by high standards of hygiene since it is airborne and can be transmitted by air when the patient sneezes or coughs or even by physical contact such as a handshake or mere touch. Extreme levels of quarantine are thus essential to contain the spread of this infection, as well as immediate and adequate medication. Apart from medication, there are several home remedies for strep throat, such as the age-old remedy of the salt-water gargle.

Gargling with warm salt water three to four times a day helps to relieve the irritation in the throat and also kills the bacteria breeding in the throat. Apart from this, herbal teas such as those made with extracts of chamomile, sage, peppermint, lavender, jasmine, rosemary and thyme all provide relief from the pain and irritation. They also help to reduce the symptoms of nausea and diarrhea. Horseradish is another common herb that helps to combat throat infections and build-up of mucus that can cause the irritation. Finally it is important to get plenty of sleep if you are suffering from strep throat since the body rejuvenates itself while you are sleeping and thus prepares itself to fight the infection. If you have trouble sleeping due to the symptoms of strep throat, ginseng and passion flower teas have powerful sedative powers.

answered by G M


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