No, not usually. Strep throat is typically harmless, but the bacteria can spread throughout the rest of the body and cause further problems if antibiotics aren’t prescribed to take care of it.

Our AFC Urgent Care Centennial team provides further information about strep throat below, so keep reading!

What Is Strep Throat?

Strep throat is a bacterial infection caused by group A bacteria Streptococcus that causes pain and inflammation in the throat. It is extremely contagious, spreading through the air and by contact

While the overall symptoms of strep throat can vary, the initial signs and symptoms are usually the same. A painful throat, difficulty swallowing and a fever are often the initial indications of this infection. Below are some additional strep throat symptoms to be aware of.

Common Strep Throat Symptoms

• Sudden sore, red throat with white patches
• Fever
• Headache
• Chills
• Loss of appetite
• Swollen lymph nodes in the neck
• Trouble swallowing

How Serious Is It to Ignore Strep Throat?

It’s not safe to do so. Like we said earlier, because strep throat is a bacterial illness, it can spread throughout the body and lead to the consequences listed below if not treated promptly.

If you have strep throat symptoms, you should get a strep throat test as soon as possible to confirm your diagnosis.

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.

Are you feeling less than your best? If so, we can help! Don’t hesitate to stop by our AFC center today.