Can Strep Throat Go Untreated?

In short, no, it can’t. While it’s true that most cases of strep throat are mild and don’t cause long-lasting complications, it can cause all kinds of future problems if it isn’t treated quickly and correctly.

Our AFC Urgent Care Clemson team explains why below, so read on!

What Is Strep Throat?

Strep throat is an infection of the throat and tonsils caused by a bacteria called group A streptococcus, which lives in the nose and throat. It’s possible to get the infection from someone who is sick with strep bacteria or who is a carrier of it.

While a sore throat is the most common sign of strep throat, other infections and viruses also have sore throat as a main symptom. With strep throat, a painful sore throat comes on quickly, and it’s usually accompanied by the symptoms that we’ve listed below.

Common Strep Throat Symptoms

  • A sudden fever, especially if it’s 101˚F or higher
  • A sudden sore, red throat with white patches
  • A headache
  • Chills
  • A loss of appetite
  • Swollen lymph nodes in the neck
  • Trouble swallowing

Should I Seek Medical Treatment for Strep Throat?

Yes, you should. In fact, it’s best to seek treatment within 48 hours after experiencing strep throat symptoms. Since strep throat is bacterial, antibiotics are almost always necessary to totally get rid of the infection.

Like we said earlier, if strep throat goes untreated, it could cause some serious, life-altering health complications. It’s best to get tested for strep throat ASAP after experiencing symptoms to ensure that you stay healthy and get treated quickly.

Potential Complications Caused By Untreated Strep Throat

  • Abscesses (infected pockets) in your throat
  • Infected lymph nodes in the neck
  • Middle ear infection
  • Sinus infection
  • Rheumatic fever, which can cause damage to the heart, joints, nervous system and skin
  • Scarlet fever—a bright red, sandpaper-like rash that starts on the face and neck and spreads through the body; it can be caused by strep throat or strep skin infections
  • Toxic shock syndrome—a rare but potentially life-threatening condition caused by strep bacteria releasing toxins into the body

Need a strep test? Visit our AFC center to get tested today!