Persistent Streptococcal Tonsillitis: Dealing with Reoccurring Strep Infections
Kid's feeling under the weather again, huh? That sandpaper-like throat, swollen lymph nodes, and the fever ain't a good sign. Here's the lowdown on recurring strep throat and some tips to combat it.
You might think, "Strep throat again? Can't be!" But it sure can be. Strep throat, caused by group A Streptococcus bacteria, is a sneaky little bugger. And, believe it or not, you can get it multiple times in a row, even up to four times without a break.
We chatted with pediatrician Kristin Barrett, MD, to understand why you keep getting strep throat and what to do when it rears its ugly head.
Why Strep Keeps Coming Back
Here are a few reasons why strep throat might keep recurring:
Neglecting Antibiotics
Remember those warnings labels on your antibiotics? They're there for a reason. After the first strep infection, you'll likely start feeling better after the first dose of antibiotics. And it's tempting to stop there. But, finishing the full course of antibiotics is crucial to ensure the strep bacteria is wiped out completely. Without the antibiotics, strep bacteria can sneak back in, causing another infection.
Antibiotic Failure
Amoxicillin, a form of penicillin, is often prescribed as the "gold standard" antibiotic for treating strep. But not everyone can take it. If your body is allergic to penicillin, other antibiotics may not be as effective. In that case, you might need another round or a change in antibiotics to wipe out the infection.
Strep Carrier Status
Did you know that some people carry strep bacteria in their tonsils? Yeah, it's a thing. If they have strep bacteria hanging out in their oral pharyngeal cavity, it doesn't necessarily cause infection symptoms. But if they get a sore throat and test positive for strep, it's because they're a carrier. To them, the strep bacteria ain't doing anything. But, if they get treated with antibiotics for their sore throat, their body might start attacking the bacteria, causing even more symptoms.
Reinfection
Strep bacteria can hang around and reinfect you, especially if you're in close contact with someone who has strep or if it's circulating around your school or home.
Fighting Back Against Recurring Strep
If you're dealing with recurrent strep throat, there are some steps you can take to prevent more infections:
Proper Antibiotic Use
Finishing the full course of antibiotics is key to zapping the strep bacteria for good. Remember, even if you're feeling better, it's vital to take the full antibiotic dose as prescribed to ensure the bacteria is completely gone.
Disinfect Your Space
Regularly disinfect surfaces that are frequently touched, such as doorknobs, toys, and phones, to remove any lingering bacteria.
Good Hygiene Practices
Wash your hands frequently and thoroughly, cover your coughs and sneezes, and practice good infection control measures such as not sharing food, drinks, utensils, or towels to minimize the spread of bacteria.
Immune Support
Maintaining adequate vitamin D levels can help support your immune function, potentially reducing susceptibility to infections.
Keeping Strep at Bay
Whether it's your first time with strep or your fifth, these tips can help keep it from coming back. If recurrent strep persists, consider talking with a healthcare provider for further evaluation. They might recommend throat cultures, alternative antibiotics, or even tonsillectomy in extreme cases.
Don't let strep get the best of you. Stay proactive, stay healthy, and keep fighting the good fight!
Strep throat can recur due to neglecting antibiotics, antibiotic failure, strep carrier status, or reinfection. Completing the full course of antibiotics is crucial to eliminate the strep bacteria. Frequent hand washing, disinfecting shared surfaces, and good hygiene habits can help prevent the spread of bacteria. Maintaining adequate vitamin D levels can support immune function to reduce susceptibility to infections. If recurrent strep persists, consult a healthcare provider for evaluation and possible recommendation of throat cultures, alternative antibiotics, or tonsillectomy.
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