Mayo Clinic defines Streptococcal pharyngitis (commonly known as strep throat) as an infection of the throat and tonsils caused by a bacterium. It is a common form of bacterial sore throat and uncomfortable condition, especially among young children. Strep throat can spread very quickly in crowded, close-knit communities such as schools, daycare centers, and nursing homes.

Strep throat typically causes a red, sore throat, often accompanied by swollen tonsils and lymph nodes. Additional symptoms include headache, fever, and body aches. Strep throat can cause a loss of appetite, it can also lead to someone being extra tired due to fatigue. Those infected may also have white patches on their tonsils. Though not a common symptom, some can have nausea or vomiting. If strep throat is left untreated, it can cause more severe complications such as rheumatic fever, heart damage, kidney inflammation and more

To diagnose strep throat, the doctor will first take a patient's medical history and perform a physical examination. If strep throat is suspected, the doctor may then do a throat swab to analyse a sample of the throat's cells to determine if it is caused by the Streptococcus bacteria.

Antibiotics are typically administered to treat strep throat. It's important to finish the entire course of antibiotics in order to help prevent infection from recurring. A patient can typically expect to feel better the following day, but the full course of antibiotics should be completed in order to make sure the infection is accurately treated.

Additionally, strep throat can be treated at home with treatments such as over-the-counter pain relievers, throat lozenges, and other home remedies. Although these treatments may provide relief from the symptoms of strep throat, it is still important to see your doctor for an accurate diagnosis and proper treatment.

In conclusion, strep throat is a common form of bacterial sore throat, which typically causes a red, sore throat, often accompanied by swollen tonsils and lymph nodes. Additional symptoms include headache, fever, and body aches. If a person experiences symptoms that may be caused by strep throat, they should see their doctor for a proper diagnosis and treatment.