Allergies And Strep Throat
Ask U.S. doctors your own question and get educational, text answers â it’s anonymous and free!
Ask U.S. doctors your own question and get educational, text answers â it’s anonymous and free!
HealthTap doctors are based in the U.S., board certified, and available by text or video.
Strep Rash: What Is Strep Rash In Kids
If you have kids that are prone to sore throats you will probably know what Strep Throat is but do you know what Strep Rash is? You do not hear the term Strep Rash in kids very often but the more commonly used term you have probably heard is Scarlet Fever. Strep Rash is actually a very common side effect of Strep Throat that is sometimes mistaken for other illnesses. So lets talk about Strep Rash and what you can do to determine if your child has it and what you can do to help relieve the symptoms. First off, you will notice the common word Strep in Strep Throat and Strep Rash. Thats because both are directly related to the Streptococcus Bacterium which is often found in the throat and on the skin of affected children. Strep bacteria can cause many infections in kids from sore throats to skin infections and sometimes very serious diseases. When we talk about Strep Rash, this is actually the skin rash that can develop in those with Strep Throat and the symptoms that accompany the rash can be very uncomfortable to young children.
read more:;Strep A Rash: Types, Symptoms and Skin infection
How You Get Rheumatic Fever
Rheumatic fever may develop after strep throat;or scarlet fever;infections that are not treated properly. Bacteria called group A Streptococcus or group A strep cause strep throat and scarlet fever. It usually takes about 1 to 5 weeks after strep throat or scarlet fever for rheumatic fever to develop. Rheumatic fever is thought to be caused by a response of the bodys defense system the immune system. The immune system responds to the earlier strep throat or scarlet fever infection and causes a generalized inflammatory response.
You May Like: Reading Allergy Test Results
How Can Sore Throat Be Caused By Allergies
Allergies can take different forms for each person. One person might suffer from severely itchy and watery eyes, while another might have a stopped-up nose. Still others might suffer from a sore throat. But how does this happen?
Remember that your nose and throat produce a great deal of mucus every day usually anywhere between one and two quarts of it! It keeps your respiratory tract healthy by keeping it moist and so helping prevent infections, which you rarely notice it. But when your body comes into contact with something that causes an allergic reaction, then a chemical called histamine is released. This increases mucus production, which can lead to a runny nose. When that mucus runs down your throat, it can lead to itching, coughing or sore throat.
Sometimes, sore throat allergies are even more direct. Particles of pollen or other allergens might go right into the nose and throat, and those can enter the respiratory system, leading to an even worse sore throat.
Identifying The Fearsome Four: Strep Cold Allergies And Flu
Sniffling. Itching. Sneezing. Coughing.
Strep throat, common colds, flu, and even allergies, can all make the rounds at the same time, wreaking havoc on your well-being. It can be difficult to figure out which of these ailments is affecting you and to decide on the proper course of treatment.
Weve compiled a list of symptoms related to each ailment, along with some suggestions on when to seek medical attention for each.
You May Like: Can You Take Dayquil For Allergies
How To Avoid Allergens
Keeping out of the way of allergens may again help to alleviate your symptoms. However, this can be a difficult task so to help you out, here are a few tips.
Animal dander when you have pets regular cleaning and pet-free zones within your home will help your to avoid animal dander.
Dust mites a dehumidifier makes conditions less favourable for dust mites so investing in one of these could help you stay clear of this allergen.
Mould spores in order to keep clear of mould its important to prevent it from building up in your home in the first. To do this you should regularly open windows and doors in your home to ensure fresh air circulates.
Pollen to avoid pollen you should stay indoors when counts are high and venture out when levels are lower. You can keep an eye on your local pollen count through our website.
Read Also: Cyrtec
What To Do If You Think Your Child Has Strep Throat
If you notice these symptoms and think your child has strep throat, because, once again, theres no need to rush to an emergency room.
You may not need to schedule a doctors visit with your childs pediatrician, either.
Strep throat is painful, and your child may have to wait hours or even days to see a primary care physician or pediatrician.
Instead, an urgent care facility is the perfect place to turn. Places like GoHealth Urgent Care frequently test and treat strep throat, especially in young children. We can also;refer;an;ear, nose and throat specialist is something to think about, should the problem persist.
When you visit our urgent care center, there is no need to schedule an appointment and your wait time will be short
Another tip to remember is this: strep throat is very contagious, so make sure your child stays home from school or other responsibilities after a strep diagnosis. After 24 hours of antibiotics, the infection will no longer be contagious.
Feel free to book a hassle-free appointment below using the location widget! And, as always, GoHealth Urgent Care is a walk-in clinic that does not require an appointment to see a doctor!
GoHealth Urgent Care partners with these regional healthcare providers:
- Northwell Health-GoHealth Urgent Care in;New York
- Dignity Health-GoHealth Urgent Care in;San Francisco
You May Like: Are Bee Allergies Hereditary
Your Swollen Tonsil Could Potentially Be A Sign Of Cancer
Cancer is always the most concerning, and what most people are afraid of, says Dr. Zalvan. Tonsil cancers are almost always concentrated on one side, and can present with swelling and pain with no other symptoms.
If your swollen tonsil persists or gets worse over time, see your doctor ASAP.
Chronic smoking and alcohol used to be the most common cause of tonsil cancer. Now, theyre more commonly caused by the human papilloma virus , which have a far better rate of cure, Dr. Zalvan adds. This type of cancer is now completely preventable by getting the HPV vaccine.
Lymphoma, a cancer of the immune system, can also present with swollen tonsils: It can be on one or both sides, often with lumps or lymph nodes in the neck, armpits, or groin, says Dr. Zalvan. Your doctor will complete a thorough exam to determine whats causing your swollen tonsils and map out the best course of action.
Who Is At Risk For Mold Toxicity
While anyone can become ill from exposure to mold and its mycotoxins, some are more susceptible than others.
People who already have allergies or asthma can be more severely affected by mold toxicity than those who do not have allergies.
Also, people who are already ill, have immune suppression, or who have respiratory illnesses are more likely to have noticeable and intense symptoms resulting from mold exposure.
Symptoms of mold toxicity are relatively persistent and should not be ignored.
Recommended Reading: Is Pine Nuts A Nut Allergy
About Author: Ken Harris
Ken Harris is the proudest father and a writing coordinator for the Marketing & Communications division of OSF HealthCare.He has a bachelor’s in journalism from the University of Wisconsin-Madison and worked as a daily newspaper reporter for four years before leaving the field and eventually finding his way to OSF HealthCare.In his free time, Ken likes reading, fly fishing, hanging out with his dog and generally pestering his lovely, patient wife.
How Do I Know If I Have A Sore Throat Cold Or Allergies
Both allergies and colds may cause a runny or stuffy nose, sneezing, a cough, and fatigue. Itchy eyes, post-nasal drip, and dark circles under your eyes are more common with allergies. Symptoms more commonly caused by a virus include sore throat, cloudy or discolored nasal discharge, fever, and general aches and pains. via
Also Check: Clarentin
Stomach Acid Isnt Staying Put
Reflux that affects the throat is called laryngopharyngeal reflux , or LPR. LPR is a very common problem in the U.S., mostly from poor diet, says Dr. Zalvan. When stomach acid travels up and into the throat on the regular, the chronic burning and irritation can cause sore and swollen tonsils.
You might also feel the need to clear your throat a lot, have trouble swallowing, or get saddled with a cough that just wont quit.
If you suspect LPR is whats messing with your tonsils, avoid aggravating factors, such as acidic or spicy foods and drinks, caffeine, and alcohol, says Dr. Morrison, who also recommends sleeping with sufficient pillows to keep yourself propped up, popping antacids as needed, and steering clear of tight-fitting waistbands.
Antibiotics Get You Well Fast
Doctors treat strep throat with antibiotics. Either penicillin or amoxicillin are recommended as a first choice for people who are not allergic to penicillin. Doctors can use other antibiotics to treat strep throat in people who are allergic to penicillin.
Benefits of antibiotics include:
- Preventing the bacteria from spreading to others
- Preventing serious complications like rheumatic fever
Someone who tests positive for strep throat but has no symptoms usually does not need antibiotics. They are less likely to spread the bacteria to others and very unlikely to get complications. If a carrier gets a sore throat illness caused by a virus, the rapid strep test can be positive. In these cases it can be hard to know what is causing the sore throat. If someone keeps getting a sore throat after taking the right antibiotics, they may be a strep carrier and have a viral throat infection. Talk to a doctor if you think you or your child may be a strep carrier.
Recommended Reading: Can A 6 Month Old Have Allergies
How To Treat A Sore Throat Caused By Allergies
Allergy meds are usually the best place to start. Antihistamines, like Claritin, Zyrtec, or Benadryl, can help tame inflammation and ease your symptoms overall, Dr. Mehdizadeh says. Nasal sprays, like ipratropium, and nasal glucocorticoids, like fluticasone, are good for easing postnasal drip, too.
Natural remedies could also make a difference. Gargling with warm saltwater can help get rid of irritating mucus, and drinking plenty of water or inhaling steam may soothe scratchiness.
Of course, prevention might be the most effective tactic of all. Minimizing your exposure to allergenssay, by keeping your windows closed and showering as soon as you come inside after being outdoorscan keep your symptoms from flaring up and help stop that sore throat before it starts.
Sore Throat = Strep Throat Or Does It
If you are wondering whether your painful sore throat is from a cold, allergies or strep here is help with how to tell the difference.
Sore throats can be caused by viruses or bacteria. The most common cause of sore throats are viruses. Viral sore throats are often accompanied by other cold symptoms that may include a runny nose, cough, red or watery eyes and sneezing. Other causes of sore throats include smoking, pollution or irritants in the air, allergies and dry air.
A sore throat is often the first sign of a cold or allergy congestion. Often a sore throat from a cold will get better or go away after the first two or three days.
Strep throat, which is an infection due to streptococcus bacteria, is another cause of a sore throat. With strep throat the soreness in the throat is often more severe and persists.; In general the common symptoms of strep throat include a sore throat, fever, red and inflamed throat and swollen or tender lymph nodes on the sides of the upper neck.
People with strep throat can experience other associated symptoms including headache, abdominal pain, nausea or vomiting, and a loss of appetite.
Remember, if you have sore throat pain and have concern about a cold or strep throat follow up with your healthcare provider today.
Don’t Miss: Twix Peanut Allergy
What Is Strep Rash
As mentioned above, strep rash is a symptom of scarlet fever and in some rare instances, it may develop in people with strep throat too. Strepthroat is caused by group A streptococcus bacteria and the common symptoms of this condition are chills, headaches, redness, irritation and pain in the throat, enlarged tonsils, strep throat rash, etc. The person may also have swollen lymph nodes in neck. Strep throat may develop into scarlet fever in some people and this condition is evidenced by the development of strep rash. This happens after 24 to 48 hours of the occurrence of strep throat symptoms. By this time, the bacteria releases toxins into the body and these toxins result in allergic skin reactions, like, strep rash. This rash can be distinguished from other types of rash with the help of other scarlet fever symptoms, like, fever, chills, headache, nausea;or vomiting, flushed face with paleness around the mouth, etc.
Strep rash also known as scarlatina or scarlet fever is one of the more common types of skin rashes. And it usually occurs during a bout of strep throat.
Looking at pictures of skin rashes, youll see that many look similar which is why getting a diagnosis is difficult. That is why its best to see your physician to get a skin rash diagnosis.
When the skin is pressed, the area of the rash turns white which is why some people may mistake it for sunburn. A strep rash may last about 7-10 days, but the skin itching and peeling may persist for weeks.
Allergy Shots And Recurrent Strep Throat
over a year ago
Guest over a year ago
Allergies are not the only cause of inflammation. Germ-caused tissue inflammation often results in bright red, and painful tissues, as in a head cold or strep throat. Many other irritating substances can also inflame tissues. On the other hand, allergic inflammation is unique in that tissues may have a blue or purple hue, and may often be more itchy than painful. Recurrent exposure to an allergen results in greater tissue inflammation and more symptoms. Tissues with allergic inflammation contain a type of white blood cells called eosinophils, which can be viewed with a microscope. Also try to find more info about connection of allergies and strep throat on Family Pratctice Notbook Website Hopefully it will help you more to understand it.
over a year ago
over a year ago
over a year ago
Guest over a year ago
Tessha22237 over a year ago
over a year ago
Guest over a year ago
Loading…
Also Check: How To Sleep Better With Allergies
Strep Throat Is Lurking
Though its not as common in adults, strep throat is a bacterial infection that can cause swollen tonsils and inflammation, says Dr. Zalvan. Besides difficulty swallowing, you might also experience bad breath and have trouble opening your mouth.
Left untreated, bacterial tonsillitis can lead to a more complicated infection that causes pus to collect around the capsule of the tonsil. This infection may require intravenous antibiotics and a drainage procedure to remove the abscess, says Brad DeSilva, MD, otolaryngologist at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center.
Because strep is sometimes associated with sinusitis, ear infections, and pneumonia, it can be hard to tell if your swollen tonsils are the victim of a viral or bacterial infection. If symptoms persist, Dr. DeSilva recommends having your doc run a rapid strep test to determine if antibiotics are needed.
Also Check: Do Twix Have Nuts In Them
Throat And Ear Pain While Swallowing
The ear and throat are connected by the auditory tube , which opens and closes when you swallow. Therefore, you might have pain in your throat and ear when you swallow if you have tonsillitis and infections like mono or strep throat.
These infections can also cause problems in the auditory tube, including inflammation, infection, and mucus collection.
You May Like: Can Infants Have Seasonal Allergies
How A Sore Throat Is Treated
Michael Menna, DO, is a board-certified, active attending emergency medicine physician at White Plains Hospital in White Plains, New York.
A sore throat can be uncomfortable and often;signals an oncoming cold. While home remedies may help with some types of sore throat, its important to note that medical treatment may be needed.;A sore throat due to strep throat, for example, usually requires antibiotic treatment in order to prevent serious complications.
Self-treating a health condition and avoiding;or delaying standard care may have serious consequences. Certain conditions and symptoms require emergency care.
Be sure to consult your doctor if your sore throat is very painful, lasts more than a few days, or if you have other symptoms.
Why Can Seasonal Allergies Cause A Sore Throat
Allergies happen when the body perceives a foreign substance as a threat, and the immune system produces antibodies and histamine in response. This creates an inflammatory reaction that makes you feel downright crummy. Common allergy symptoms include sneezing, congestion, runny nose, sinus pressure, and dark circles under the eyes . But under the right circumstances, allergy sufferers could develop a sore throat as well.;
Why does this happen? Children with allergies often have increased mucus production in the nasal passages that drips down the back of the throat. This is referred to as postnasal drip, explains Sanjeev Jain, M.D., a board-certified allergist and immunologist at Columbia Allergy. As the mucus drips down the throat, it causes irritation to the mucosa that lines the throat, and this can result in the sensation of a sore throat.
Keep in mind that sore throat can have other causes as well. For example, it often appears with viral upper respiratory infections and bacterial infections , says Natasha Burgert, M.D., a board-certified pediatrician for Pediatric Associates in Overland Park, Kansas. Sore throat might also be a symptom of COVID-19 in kids. Contact your pediatrician if you dont know the cause of your childs sore throat; they may need to diagnose and treat it.
Recommended Reading: Infant Seasonal Allergy
