How long does Strep Throat Last and Why?

The duration of strep throat can vary from person to person, but it typically resolves within 7 to 10 days. However, some cases may last longer or recur if left untreated. Here's an overview of the course of strep throat and why it lasts for a certain period:

Day 1-2:

- Initial symptoms such as a sore throat, difficulty swallowing, fever, headache, and body aches may appear.

Days 3-4:

- Symptoms usually reach their peak severity during this time.

Days 5-7:

- With proper treatment using antibiotics, the symptoms should start to improve gradually. The fever usually resolves within 24 hours of starting antibiotics.

Day 7-10:

- Most individuals recover from strep throat and the symptoms should significantly subside by this time.

The reason why strep throat lasts for several days is due to the nature of the infection and the body's immune response. Streptococcus bacteria (group A streptococcus) cause strep throat by invading the throat and tonsils. These bacteria produce toxins that can damage the surrounding tissues and cause inflammation, leading to symptoms like pain, swelling, and difficulty swallowing.

To effectively combat the infection, the immune system mounts an inflammatory response by sending white blood cells to the affected area. The increased blood flow and inflammatory mediators result in the various symptoms associated with strep throat. Some individuals may also develop swollen lymph nodes in the neck as part of the body's immune response.

Treatment with antibiotics is essential to shorten the duration of strep throat and prevent potential complications. Antibiotics target and kill the Streptococcus bacteria, reducing the bacterial load and the associated inflammation. As long as the proper course of antibiotics is completed as prescribed, most cases of strep throat can be effectively treated within 7 to 10 days.

It's important to follow the doctor's instructions and complete the entire course of antibiotics, even if the symptoms start to improve. Stopping the medication prematurely can increase the risk of relapse or the development of complications, such as rheumatic fever and kidney inflammation.