Alternative Approaches for Strep Throat relief

This article delves into the diverse world of natural remedies for strep throat, offering insights into less conventional yet effective alleviation.

Pharyngitis, commonly referred to as strep throat, is an infectious disease that frequently spreads via saliva droplets when a person infected with it coughs or sneezes. It is typically caused by a virus, though in some cases, bacteria are the culprits.

There is no specific cure for viral pharyngitis, often referred to as strep throat. However, conventional medical treatment for bacterial strep throat generally involves administering antibiotics.

Individuals with Strep throat can transmit the bacteria to others until 24 hours after starting antibiotic treatment or for 10 to 21 days if not treated.

Fact 1 of 4

Simultaneously, many individuals seek to include natural remedies in their treatment plan to alleviate symptoms and aid the recovery process.

Possible causes

Strep Throat (pharyngitis) is a contagious medical condition that spreads through tiny droplets of saliva when an infected person coughs or sneezes. It is most commonly caused by viruses, but in some cases, bacteria are responsible.

This condition often presents with unpleasant symptoms, including a sore throat, fever, and difficulty in swallowing.

The primary cause of viral pharyngitis, also known as laryngitis, is infections in the upper respiratory tract. On the other hand, bacterial strep throat is mainly caused by Group A Streptococcus bacteria, which affect the throat and tonsils.

Additional contributing factors can include irritants like air pollution, smoke, and the ingestion of chemicals.

• Close Contact: Being in close proximity to someone who is infected increases the risk of contracting strep throat.
• Shared Items: Using the same utensils, dishes, or other personal items as an infected person can spread the infection.
• Weak Immune System: Individuals with compromised immune systems (the body’s defense against infections) are more susceptible to contracting infections like strep throat.

Symptoms

Recognizing the symptoms of strep throat is crucial for timely treatment. Unlike a common cold, strep throat usually does not cause a cough or a runny nose. Key symptoms include:

1. Sore Throat: The hallmark symptom, often starting very quickly and causing pain during swallowing.
2. Fever: A sudden high temperature is common with strep throat.
3. Red and Swollen Tonsils: Sometimes white patches or streaks of pus can be visible.
4. Tiny Red Spots (Petechiae): These may appear on the roof of the mouth and are small, red spots.
5. Swollen, Tender Lymph Nodes: Located in the neck, these glands may become tender and swollen.
6. Headache and Nausea: Especially in younger children, strep throat may be accompanied by a headache and stomach upset.

Statistics

Strep throat is a significant health concern worldwide. While it predominantly affects children and adolescents, it can also occur in adults.

Incidence in Children and Adolescents

A study[1] in the Journal of Pediatrics reports that Pharyngitis leads to approximately 5.2 million outpatient visits and results in 2.8 million antibiotic prescriptions each year for individuals aged 0 to 64 years in the United States.

In the study[2] area, Streptococcus pyogenes accounts for 10.7% of acute pharyngitis cases in pediatric patients, with children aged 5 to 15 being more prone to streptococcal throat infections compared to younger children.

Incidence in Adults

According to The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) it’s estimated to cause around 20% to 30% of pharyngitis cases in children. In adults, the incidence drops significantly, making up only about 5-15% of sore throat cases.

Streptococcal Pharyngitis in the Netherlands

A controlled [3] of streptococcal pharyngitis and its complications in the Netherlands.. The Journal of infectious diseases, 124 4, 339-47 . https://doi.org/10.1093/INFDIS/124.4.339.” class=”js–wpm-format-cite”>study[3] of streptococcal pharyngitis in the Netherlands, covering 1,159 patients over two one-year periods, found that 54% harbored Group A streptococci in their throats. Less than 18% of these were probable carriers of streptococci as judged by the grade of positivity of the throat swab.

About 41% of the patients were treated with penicillin, and the others with either sulfonamides, bismuth, or aspirin. Streptococci were efficiently eradicated from the throat only by penicillin, which did not eradicate signs and symptoms of pharyngitis better than the other drugs​​.

Seasonal Variations

Strep throat occurrences show a seasonal pattern, with a higher prevalence in late winter and early spring, as noted[4] in StatPearls publishing.

While Strep throat constitutes only a small percentage of sore throat cases, if left untreated, it can lead to complications like kidney inflammation or rheumatic fever.

Fact 2 of 4

Conventional Treatments

Strep throat, caused by the bacterium Streptococcus pyogenes, is a common and treatable condition. Conventional medical treatments focus on eliminating the bacteria, relieving symptoms, and preventing complications.

Antibiotic Therapy: The Primary Treatment

• Penicillin and Amoxicillin: These antibiotics are the first choice for treating strep throat. They work by destroying the bacteria’s ability to form cell walls, leading to their death.
• Alternative Antibiotics: For those allergic to penicillin, alternatives like azithromycin or clarithromycin can be prescribed.

Symptomatic Relief

• Pain Relievers: Over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil) can alleviate throat pain and reduce fever.
• Throat Lozenges and Sprays: These can provide temporary relief from sore throat discomfort.

Hydration and Rest

• Fluid Intake: Drinking plenty of fluids helps keep the throat moist and reduces the risk of dehydration.
• Rest: Adequate rest is essential for the body’s immune system to fight off the infection effectively.

Prevention of Transmission

• Good Hygiene Practices: Regular hand washing and avoiding sharing personal items can help prevent the spread of the bacteria.
• Isolation During Infectious Period: It’s recommended to stay home from work or school until at least 24 hours after starting antibiotics, as this reduces the risk of spreading the infection.

Medicinal Herbs

The use of medicinal herbs for treating Strep Throat has been explored in various studies.

These herbs contain active components with antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and soothing properties, offering a natural approach to managing the symptoms of Strep Throat.

Echinacea (Echinacea spp.)

• Active Components: Echinacea contains alkamides, which have been shown to boost immune response and have antimicrobial effects.
• Scientific Studies: A study[5] in the Complementary therapies in medicine Journal reported that Echinacea effectively reduces the severity and duration of respiratory tract infections.

Sage (Salvia officinalis)

• Active Components: Sage contains phenolic acids and flavonoids, known for their anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties.
• Scientific Studies: Research[6] published in the European Journal of Medical Research indicates that sage throat sprays effectively relieve the symptoms of acute pharyngitis.

Licorice Root (Glycyrrhiza glabra)

• Active Components: Glycyrrhizin in licorice root has anti-inflammatory and soothing effects on sore throats.
• Scientific Studies: Research[7] published in Anesthesia & Analgesia Journal found that licorice root is effective in soothing sore throat symptoms.

Slippery Elm (Ulmus rubra)

• Active Components: Mucilage, a gel-like substance in slippery elm, forms a soothing film over mucous membranes, relieving irritation.
• Scientific Studies: According to a case [8]." Australian Journal of Herbal Medicine 27.2 (2015): 57-61.‏” class=”js–wpm-format-cite”>study[8] published in the Australian Journal of Herbal Medicine, slippery elm is traditionally used for soothing inflamed or irritated mucous membranes.

Some individuals are naturally immune to Strep throat, yet they can still carry and unknowingly spread the bacteria.

Fact 3 of 4

Thyme (Thymus vulgaris)

• Active Components: Thymol in thyme has antiseptic properties, making it beneficial for throat infections.
• Scientific Studies: A study[9] in BioMed research international showed thyme’s efficacy in treating coughs and sore throats due to its antimicrobial and antitussive (cough-suppressing) properties.

Take Notice!

While these medicinal herbs show promise in managing symptoms of Strep Throat, it is important to remember that they are not a substitute for conventional antibiotic treatment, especially in bacterial infections.

These herbs can be used as complementary therapies to alleviate symptoms and support overall throat health.

Food Supplements

Strep Throat is a common and often painful condition. Certain food supplements can support the body’s healing process and alleviate symptoms.

These supplements, rich in active components, have been the subject of various scientific studies.

Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid)

• Active Components: Vitamin C is known for its immune-boosting properties and its role in collagen synthesis, essential for healthy mucous membranes.
• Scientific Studies: In a study[10] comparing the effects of azithromycin and vitamin C treatment on adults with acute bronchitis, there was no notable difference in the health-related quality of life observed after 7 days.
  Research[11] in the American Journal of Lifestyle Medicine has shown significant potential benefit of vitamin C in treating the common cold, a similar upper respiratory tract infection.
  It seems to occur when supplementation, at high doses (approximately 8 grams daily), is started within 24 hours of the onset of symptoms and continued for a minimum of 5 days.

Zinc Lozenges

• Active Components: Zinc is crucial for immune function and has been shown to inhibit the replication of viruses.
• Scientific Studies: A study[12] in the Medical Hypotheses Journal reported that zinc lozenges may reduce the duration of cold symptoms, including sore throat.
  Zinc lozenges that dissolve slowly in the mouth over a period of 20–30 minutes, releasing a sufficient amount of ionic zinc (more than 18 mg) and taken every 2 hours, have the potential to reduce the duration of common colds by 6–7 days, effectively serving as a cure for common colds.

Probiotics

• Active Components: Probiotics, particularly strains like Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium, can enhance gut and immune health.
• Scientific Studies: The Nutrients published a [13]." Nutrients 12.10 (2020): 3163.‏” class=”js–wpm-format-cite”>review[13] indicating that probiotics can modulate the immune response, potentially reducing the incidence of upper respiratory tract infections.

Elderberry Extract

• Active Components: Elderberry is rich in flavonoids, which possess antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties.
• Scientific Studies: article[14] in Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition found that the consumption of elderberry, kiwi, probiotics, and fish oil positively impacted the duration of the upper respiratory tract infections. Considering the risk of bias and repetition in studies, both probiotics and elderberry consistently demonstrated beneficial effects.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids

• Active Components: Omega-3 Fatty Acids, found in fish oil, have anti-inflammatory effects that can be beneficial in reducing throat inflammation.
• Scientific Studies: A study[15] in the Current atherosclerosis reports indicated that omega-3 fatty acids play a role in modulating inflammation.
  The authors noted that the potential of omega-3 fatty acids to produce significant anti-inflammatory effects in humans is supported by studies showing their benefits in conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, asthma, and inflammatory bowel disorders.
  Considering the link between the progression of atherosclerosis and chronic inflammation, omega-3 fatty acids could play a crucial role through their ability to modulate inflammatory processes.

In rare instances, Strep throat can be contracted by consuming food or milk that is contaminated.

Fact 4 of 4

Bibliography