Untreated Strep Throat in Adults

Strep throat is a bacterial infection in the throat that causes it to feel irritated, sore and scratchy. Adults who leave a strep throat infection untreated are at risk for developing additional infections and complications.

Background

• Strep throat in adults is caused by the Streptococcus pyogenes, or Group A streptococcus bacteria. Streptococcal bacteria are extremely contagious and passed through airborne droplets transmitted through coughing and sneezing.

Risk Factors

• Strep throat infections in adults are more likely to occur during the late fall, winter and spring. Strep bacteria thrive in groups of people with close contact. Adults who work in child care and school settings are at higher risk of contracting the infection.

Complications

• According to the Mayo Clinic, adults who leave a strep throat untreated risk developing complications such as tonsillitis, ear infection, sinus infection, kidney inflammation and/or scarlet fever. Untreated strep throat infections can also lead to rheumatic fever, which can cause permanent heart-valve scarring.

Prevention/Solution

• According to the Mayo Clinic, adults at risk for contracting the strep infection should wash their hands regularly, cover their mouths when sneezing and/or coughing and avoid sharing eating utensils and drinking glasses.

Warning

• To avoid severe complications, the National Library of Medicine suggests that adults with a strep throat infection should seek medical attention immediately. Strep throat infections need immediate attention if accompanied by high fever or difficulty breathing or swallowing, also if the antibiotic treatment is not improving symptoms within 24 to 48 hours.