Strep throat is a bacterial infection of the throat and tonsil region. The scientific term for strep throat is streptococcus. Not every sore throat symptom is strep throat, although a scratchy or burning throat is a sign of strep throat. You can treat the pain and discomfort at home and help your body fight the disease, but see your doctor for a definitive diagnosis of strep throat.
Diet
A sign of strep throat is swollen, splotchy tissue in the back of the throat. If you can see the swelling, you can understand that eating may not be appetizing to the sufferer. Help your patients or yourself find appealing foods so the body has the energy necessary to fight the infection. Chicken noodle soup might be just the thing for sufferers. Look for dairy items, such as yogurt or milk, with probiotics that can help the body fight bad bacterium. A cool yogurt will slip right down even sore throats.
Drinks
Pick up a warm mug of tea. Turn to a soothing tea that will relax and calm you, as well as soothe your throat. Drizzle some honey in your tea for an extra flavor and a soothing addition. Choose nutritional drinks such as milks, teas, citrus juices and water, as much as possible.
Supplements
If you are looking for some vitamins or supplements to help the fight against strep throat, turn to vitamin C, zinc, echinacea and ginseng. Unless your doctor tells you otherwise, you might want to turn to liquid versions of these items. Drinking plenty of water is going to be one of your best defenses against strep throat. Your goal is to keep your throat tissue moist. Orange juice in vitamin C and echinacea teas can serve double duties.
Routine
Keep a humidifier in your bedroom or in whichever room you are lounging. Breathing moist air will relieve some pain from your sore throat. At least once a day, gargle a salt water mixture. Keep the water warm for a more palatable option on your throat.
When To See A Doctor
Although you can fight many of the symptoms and relieve pain at home, you may want to see a doctor who can diagnose your sore throat as strep throat. Once he has diagnosed you, he can give you a round of antibiotics to help your body fight the bacterial infection.
