Streptococcus group in children. Streptococcal infection in children, what is dangerous and how to treat. What is streptococcus and how is it transmitted

Streptococcus is an anaerobic gram-positive bacterium, the reproduction of which leads to the development of many diseases: tonsillitis, pneumonia, laryngotracheitis, pharyngitis, scarlet fever, etc. The pathogen poisons the child's body and provokes purulent inflammation of the tissues at the site of the pathogenic flora.

What should be treated in a child? Features of therapy depend on which pathogen provoked the development of a particular disease.

To date, at least 4 varieties of streptococcal infections have been identified by infectious disease specialists.

However, the greatest danger to the health of the child is group A streptococci, which give complications to the heart, kidneys, brain and joints.

Features of streptococci

The development of a bacterial infection in children may be indicated by: purulent discharge from the nose, lack of appetite, sore throat, high fever, swelling and soreness of the lymph nodes, white plaque on the walls of the throat and tonsils. Beta-hemolytic streptococcus is one of the most dangerous infectious agents. Pathogenic microorganisms provoke inflammation, which is accompanied by the accumulation of pus in the lesions.

The infection can spread to the paranasal sinuses - sphenoiditis, sinusitis, heart - endocarditis, pericarditis, brain - abscess, meningitis or ears - otitis media, eustachitis.

Streptococcus viridans is an opportunistic pathogen that does not cause disease if normal functioning immune system. However, hypothermia, lack of vitamins and minerals can cause a weakening of the protective forces of the child's body. Subsequent active reproduction of gram-positive bacteria leads to poisoning of the body and the development of severe complications, such as endocarditis or pericarditis.

Streptococcus is transmitted by airborne droplets and through household contact through toys, towels, dishes and other household items.

Diagnostics

How can you determine the development of streptococcus in the throat in children? Immediately it is worth noting, to identify the causative agent of infection by clinical manifestations impossible. Symptoms such as purulent sore throat, swelling of the mucosa, nasal congestion, increased submandibular lymph nodes and a severe runny nose indicate exclusively the development of a bacterial infection, but does not give any idea about the species variety of the causative agent of the ENT disease.

In order to accurately determine the cause of the deterioration in the child's well-being, you need to undergo a hardware examination by a pediatrician and submit biomaterials () for microbiological analysis. Only in this way will a specialist be able to accurately determine the nature of the causative agent of the disease and draw up a competent treatment regimen for the disease.

The waste products of streptococci cause severe allergic reactions, which can cause swelling of the throat and even asphyxia.

The most difficult to treat is beta-hemolytic streptococcus, which quickly penetrates into the tissues of the heart, structures, kidneys, etc. To destroy pathogenic bacteria in the circuit conservative therapy include antibiotics. If the disease is very severe, antimicrobials administered intramuscularly or intravenously.

Treatment Methods

What drugs can eliminate streptococcus in the oropharynx in children? Treatment of a bacterial infection involves the use of drugs not only systemic, but also local action. The simultaneous use of medicines, inhalations and rinses accelerates the child's recovery process.

To prevent drug poisoning, small patients are prescribed only those drugs that contain minimal amount toxic substances. In addition, it is very important to observe the dosage and duration of therapy, which can only be set by the attending physician. The basis of drug treatment is antibiotics, which must be supplemented with symptomatic drugs:

• antipyretic;
• antiallergic;
• immunostimulating;
• painkillers;
• anti-inflammatory;
• vasoconstrictor.

With all measures taken drug therapy after 4-5 days, the throat is completely cleared of purulent plaque, and the tonsils - from foci of inflammation.

It should be understood that streptococcal infection can recur, therefore, after the end of the antibacterial course, it is advisable to follow preventive measures for ENT diseases. Weakened immunity is not able to cope with large infectious loads, so within a month after recovery, try to limit your child's visits to public places - swimming pools, sports complexes, matinees, etc.

With the development of ENT diseases, special attention should be paid to caring for a sick child. The waste products of streptococci create a considerable burden on the heart, so it is very important that when the body temperature rises, it is strictly observed bed rest. In parallel with the passage of drug treatment, you need to monitor the implementation of the following rules:

• sparing diet - exclusion from the diet of sour, spicy, fatty and hot food, irritating mucous membrane of the laryngopharynx;
• drinking regime - drinking at least 1.5 liters of warm drink per day, which accelerates the elimination of toxic substances from the body;
• throat treatment - gargling a sore throat antiseptic solutions, cleansing the mucous from pathogens.

When choosing medicines, you can not rely on your own knowledge and experience of treatment. colds. Streptococcal infection progresses rapidly and in case of irrational treatment can cause terrible complications.

In addition, infectious diseases in children can occur in atypical form so the symptoms bacterial inflammation can be confused with manifestations of viral pharyngitis, catarrhal angina, laryngitis, etc.

Antibiotics

Cure, pharyngitis and scarlet fever in children can only be done with the help of antibacterial drugs. They destroy pathogenic microbes and help to eliminate the symptoms of the disease. Average course antibiotic therapy is 7-10 days, depending on the stage of development of the pathology and the dynamics of recovery.

For the treatment of small patients, only safe medications are used that do not have a toxic effect. In the absence of complications, streptococcal infection can be eliminated with the help of penicillins:

• "Ampicillin";
• "Benzylpenicillin";
• "Oxacillin";
• "Hikoncil".

With the development of chronic tonsillitis, the treatment regimen includes penicillins that are resistant to the effects of beta-lactamase, a special enzyme that streptococci secrete to neutralize the action of antibiotics.

Many drugs penicillin series cause allergic reactions in children, therefore, if necessary, they are replaced with cephalosporins:

• "Cefazolin";
• "Ceftriaxone";
• "Suprax".

You can eliminate the symptoms of scarlet fever and mild forms of angina with the help of macrolides. Antibiotics of this group are the least toxic, so they can be used to treat children aged 1-3 years. Among the most effective macrolide drugs include:

• "Spiramycin";
• "Erythromycin";
• "Midecamycin".

It is very important to follow the recommendations for the use of medicines exactly. It is undesirable to skip taking antibiotics or completely refuse to use them if the child feels better.

Gargling

It is possible to eliminate local manifestations of streptococcal infection - pain, purulent inflammation and swelling with the help of rinses. Sanitizing procedures allow you to clear the mucous membrane of the throat from more than 70% of pathogenic microbes. Regular irrigation of the tonsils and oropharynx with antiseptics has a beneficial effect on local immunity and accelerates tissue healing.

During rinsing, the active components of medications penetrate directly into the foci of infection, which allows you to quickly stop the development of streptococci. Reducing the intensity of inflammatory processes helps to reduce temperature, eliminate muscle weakness and drowsiness. In the treatment of bacterial sore throat in children, you can use the following antiseptic preparations for rinsing:

• "Betadine";
• "Povidone";
• "Chlorhexidine";
• "Eludril";
• "Stopangin";
• "Elekasol";
• "Furacilin".

Children preschool age prone to allergic reactions, so for their treatment it is necessary to select drugs with a minimum content of synthetic components. It is recommended to use herbal remedies based on medicinal herbs for gargling - Elekasol, Tantum Verde, Rotokan, etc.

Local antibiotics

Topical antibiotics are antimicrobial drugs that are available in the form of sprays, rinses and inhalations. They quickly penetrate into the lesions and destroy streptococci, thereby improving the patient's well-being. It is important to understand that the role of topical drugs is secondary, so they cannot be used instead of systemic antibiotics.

Eliminate the manifestations of streptococcal infection allows taking the following medications:

• "Fusafungin" - a medicinal solution for inhalation, which inhibits the reproduction of gram-positive bacteria;
• "Hexetidine" - a low-toxic solution for rinsing the oropharynx, which destroys up to 80% of pathogens in the foci of inflammation;
• Octenisept is a bacteriostatic aerosol preparation that is added to saline solutions for gargling.

To speed up recovery, physiotherapy procedures should be performed daily 3-4 times a week. Systematic cleansing of the mucosa from bacterial plaque will accelerate tissue regeneration, which will help eliminate discomfort when swallowing.

Antipyretic

Fever, high temperature and pain syndrome – typical manifestations bacterial infection. Along with taking antibiotics, one should not refuse to use symptomatic drugs. Streptococcal tonsillitis and pharyngitis are often accompanied by high fever, sweating, chills, muscle weakness, etc.

Anti-inflammatory and antipyretic drugs can alleviate the child's condition and quickly eliminate the symptoms of intoxication:

• "Nurofen";
• "Paracetamol";
• "Ibuprofen".

Not recommended for children under 12 pharmaceutical products, which include acetylsalicylic acid, as this can cause the development of Reye's syndrome.

Antipyretics (fever-reducing medicines) should only be given to children when the temperature is above 38°C. The presence of subfebrile fever indicates that the body is trying to independently suppress the development of streptococci, cell structures which break down when the temperature rises. If you bring down the temperature, this will only contribute to the spread of infection and, accordingly, the deterioration of health.

Throat Lozenges

The advantage of lozenges and lozenges for resorption is the uniform distribution of the active components of the drug along the throat mucosa.

Their composition usually includes anti-inflammatory, analgesic and disinfecting substances that quickly cleanse the laryngopharynx from purulent foci of inflammation.

It is undesirable to give lozenges to children under 3 years old, they may swallow them or choke.

If you suck the lozenges every 2-3 hours, the pain, swelling and discomfort in the throat will go away within 3-4 days. For the treatment of streptococcal tonsillitis and pharyngitis, they usually use:

• "Faringosept";
• "Septolete";
• "Flurbiprofen";
• "Stopangin";
• Strepsils;
• "Grammidin".

The composition of most lozenges includes phenol, which destroys microbes and accelerates the epithelization of the mucosa. Components such as hexetidine, ambazon and benzalkonium chloride have a similar effect. To enhance the effect of drugs, it is recommended to pre-gargle saline solutions. This will clear the laryngopharynx of mucus that prevents the absorption of active ingredients.

Inhalation with saline

Inhalations can soften the throat and eliminate inflammation, which has a beneficial effect on the patient's well-being. To prevent mucosal burns, it is recommended to perform the procedure using a nebulizer. The compact device converts medicinal solutions into an aerosol, which is quickly absorbed by the affected mucosa. In addition, nebulizer therapy is indicated for the treatment of even infants, since it does not cause adverse reactions and fluid aspiration.

A strep throat infection can be treated with nebulizer medications such as:

• "Interferon";
• "Tonsilgon";
• "Lazolvan";
• "Ambrobene";
• "Furacilin";
• "Ingalipt";
• "Chlorophyllipt".

In most cases, drugs are pre-diluted with mineral water (Borjomi, Essentuki) or saline in a ratio of 1: 1. This allows you to slightly reduce the concentration of active ingredients in the drug, thereby reducing the likelihood of allergic reactions.

To achieve the desired results, during inhalation with a nebulizer, you need to take into account the following nuances:

• the therapy session should be carried out only in a sitting position;
• the duration of one procedure can vary from 7 to 15 minutes;
• only room temperature solutions can be poured into the nebulizer chamber;
• in case of sore throat for inhalation, use a special mask or mouthpiece;
• on average, the course of nebulizer therapy is 10-15 days (at least 3-4 procedures should be performed per day).

Do not dilute medicines with herbal decoctions, as they contain sediment that can clog the filter or spray screen, which will lead to device failure.

Folk remedies

Too many parents are skeptical about the use of drugs, because they consider them pure "chemistry". Alternative medicine methods seem to them more effective and safer. In fact, folk remedies can be used in the treatment of ENT diseases, but only in combination with antibiotics.

Gargling with solutions based on natural remedies is considered the most effective. Such folk remedies have a pronounced antibacterial and wound-healing effect:

• infusion of kombucha;
• decoction of medicinal chamomile;
• infusion of oak bark;
• saline solution;
• propolis tincture (diluted with water in a ratio of 1:10).

Too concentrated solutions for rinsing dehydrate the mucous membrane and cause allergic reactions.

Do not forget that alternative medicine is only an addition to the main therapy. At complete failure from traditional medicine, the disease can become chronic and cause complications.

Prevention

Beta-hemolytic streptococcus is a rheumatogenic strain of bacteria that can cause disorders in the musculoskeletal and cardiovascular systems. Within 2-3 weeks after the complete disappearance of the symptoms of bacterial inflammation, the risk of developing rheumatism remains - a serious disease characterized by damage to the joints and heart muscle. How can complications be prevented?

Within 10 days after the end of the course of pharmacotherapy, children with a tendency to develop rheumatoid fever are prescribed benzylpenicillins and immunostimulating agents. The former prevent the re-proliferation of streptococci, and the latter increase the activity of immune cells that protect the body from the penetration of pathogenic viruses and microbes.

Some patients are prescribed medicines, which normalize the biocenosis, i.e. qualitative composition microflora in the oral cavity. If all recommendations are followed, the risk of complications is reduced to almost zero. To convince you that there are no side diseases, it is advisable to undergo an examination by a specialist at least twice within 2-3 weeks after the elimination of the streptococcal infection.

Bacterial infections in babies are often caused by various microbes of the coccal flora. Streptococcus is one of the most common representatives of this family. This article will tell parents what you should know about the problems of streptococcal infection.

What it is?

One of the representatives of the families of cocci - streptococci. This is a fairly voluminous view, which includes a huge variety of the most various representatives. These microorganisms can cause infectious pathologies in both newborns and older children.

The prevalence of streptococcal infections in the pediatric population is quite high. These microorganisms are quite well preserved in adverse conditions external environment. This feature is due to their cellular structure. While in the external environment, they retain their viability, even without forming capsule forms.

The effect of insolation, some disinfectants, as well as antibacterial drugs has a detrimental effect on these microbes.

Some types of streptococci are representatives of healthy microflora human body. Such microorganisms are also called opportunistic pathogens. In this case, their active reproduction leads to the development of the disease with a decrease in immunity as a result of the influence of various factors.

Most common in children given state contributes to severe hypothermia or exacerbation of chronic diseases internal organs.

The prevalence of streptococcal infections among babies is quite high. In states with a temperate continental climate, infections caused by various types streptococci, are found in ten babies out of a hundred.

It is possible to detect these microorganisms in humans in the most different bodies. They live on the skin, mucous membranes of the oral cavity, in the gastrointestinal tract, and also on the epithelial lining of the respiratory tract. Dr. Komarovsky, for example, believes that These microorganisms are an important component of the normal microflora of the child's body.

Scientific research, which are aimed at studying the morphofunctional properties and mechanism active action on the human body of these microbes, began to be carried out already with late XIX century. Researchers have now found more than twenty different types of streptococci that exist in the environment.

Not all of them are capable of causing infectious diseases in babies. Only those species that have pronounced pathogenicity factors (the ability to cause disease) can contribute to the appearance of adverse symptoms of the disease in a baby.

Streptococci come in various groups and species. This division is carried out taking into account the peculiarities of their morphological structure. The most common representatives of this class of microbes that contribute to the development of infectious pathologies in babies are group A streptococci. Once in a weakened children's body, these microbes can cause various lesions of internal organs.

Group B Streptococcus also lead to the development of various infectious diseases in babies. Quite often, these microorganisms lead to the development of bacterial sepsis or pneumonia.

According to statistics, these diseases occur more often in newborn babies. At high risk are premature babies, as well as babies with congenital anomalies and defects in the structure of internal organs.

Pathogenic streptococci have a dangerous property - the ability to have a destructive effect on red blood cells (erythrocytes). By severity this feature All microorganisms are divided into several main groups:

• Alpha hemolytic. Contribute to the partial death of red blood cells - hemolysis.
• Beta hemolytic. They lead mainly to complete or massive death of erythrocytes in the bloodstream.
• Gamma hemolytic. They have a minimum damaging effect on erythrocytes. Practically do not lead to the development of hemolysis.

Alpha hemolytic

Streptococcus viridans

Many streptococci are members of the normal flora gastrointestinal tract. One such microorganism is Streptococcus viridans. These opportunistic microbes are also quite common in the urinary tract and bronchial tree.

Scientists have found that these microorganisms are found in large numbers in girls in the genital area. A strong decrease in immunity, which contributes to a change in the normal biocenosis, can lead to the development of the disease.

Green streptococci are quite widely represented in the oral cavity. This class of microorganisms includes many different representatives. Streptococcus mitis often becomes the culprit of caries and other inflammatory diseases of the teeth.

These microorganisms have the ability to reproduce rapidly and enough feel good in the bone tissue of the teeth, contributing to the development of acute or chronic inflammation in it.

The most common types of streptococci, which are most common in the pediatric population, are pyogenic microorganisms. They are also called hemolytic groups A.

Streptococcus pyogenes is capable of causing quite a wide variety of different bacterial pathologies, which are accompanied by a violation of the work of most internal organs. The prevalence of these microorganisms in the population is very high.

Streptococcal angina

Erysipelas

How can you get infected?

Streptococcus can be infected in many ways. Most frequent way infection is autoinfection.

In this case, excessive growth and reproduction of existing opportunistic colonies occurs. This usually occurs as a result of various causal factors leading to a weakening of local immunity. The most common cause in children is severe hypothermia.

At severe course microorganisms can get into different internal organs, leading to the systemic spread of the inflammatory process. Other situations lead to the development of self-infection:

• Tooth extraction or improper pulp therapy;
• Consequences of removal of tonsils and adenoid growths;
• Conducted catheterization Bladder for therapeutic or diagnostic purposes;
• Complications of bacterial pharyngitis and diseases of the paranasal sinuses.

Tonsil removal

In some cases, the baby can become infected from the outside. This occurs when in contact with a sick person or a carrier of the infection. This variant of infection is possible mainly in severely weakened babies. As a rule, these are children with severe comorbidities internal organs, growing neoplasms, pronounced immunodeficiency states, as well as complicated diseases of the endocrine system.

Some types of streptococci perfectly fall on the mucous membranes of the upper respiratory tract by airborne method. These tiny bacteria are found in the saliva of a sick person or an infection carrier in large quantities. In this case, you can become infected when talking or being next to a sneezing and coughing sick child. The rate of spread of infection in this case is quite high.

Violation of the rules of personal hygiene contributes to the so-called "family" outbreaks of infection. The most common way of infection in this case is the use of shared towels, toothbrushes or washcloths. Parents should always remember that the baby should have their own personal belongings, which in no case should be used by adults.

Towels used by the child in everyday life should be washed regularly in hot water and ironed on both sides.

Streptococcal flora is perfectly preserved and breeds in various products food. The most favorite nutrient medium for microorganisms are fermented milk products, poultry meat, various compotes and fruit drinks.

Violation of the rules for storing such products and using them with an expired shelf life provokes infection in the baby. huge amount pathogenic microbes. In this case, as a rule, the child has various forms lesions of the gastrointestinal tract.

Intrauterine infection by different groups of streptococci is also possible. It should be noted that it occurs quite infrequently. In this case, group B streptococcus becomes a more frequent source of infection. American scientists argue that with intrauterine infection of a baby with these microorganisms, the risk of developing bacterial pneumonia and septic condition increases many times.

In the US, when microbes are detected even at 36 weeks of pregnancy in pregnant women, they are given appropriate treatment. In our country, this practice is not applied.

In European countries, all pregnant women during pregnancy must undergo tests and smears from the vagina to determine the pathogenic streptococcal flora.

Symptoms

A huge variety of representatives of the streptococcal flora contribute to the development of a wide variety of clinical signs. The degree of their severity can be different and depends on many reasons.

Usually severe course of infectious pathologies occurs in newborns and babies in the first months of life. This feature is due to the fact that the immune system of infants still does not work as efficiently as adults.

The incubation period for streptococcal infections is quite variable. In some cases, the first adverse symptoms appear within a few hours after entering the child's body a large number pathogens. In other situations, the disease develops only after 3-4 days.

In babies with pronounced signs of immunodeficiency, clinical symptoms will appear somewhat earlier and can be expressed quite strongly.

Very often, streptococcal infection in children is manifested multiple respiratory tract infections.

Pronounced redness in the mouth and bright hyperemia of the palatine arches indicate the presence of bacterial pharyngitis. This condition is also accompanied by the appearance of soreness in the throat when swallowing. The general well-being of the child is significantly impaired. The child's appetite decreases and sleep is disturbed.

Streptococcal rhinitis- one of the most common childhood pathologies. This pathological condition is characterized by the development of a runny nose with copious discharge in a child. Nasal breathing is significantly impaired. The duration of a runny nose is usually 7-14 days. The lack of prescribed treatment usually leads to the spread of the infectious process from the nose to nearby organs.

Acute tonsillitis, which developed as a result of active reproduction of streptococcal flora, is accompanied by the appearance of a whole complex of adverse symptoms in a child. In a sick baby in the pharynx on inflamed tonsils a greenish or gray coating appears. When you try to remove it with a spatula, increased bleeding may occur.

Spicy streptococcal tonsillitis or sore throat usually accompanied high boost body temperature in a child and severe symptoms of intoxication.

Skin manifestations also occur frequently when infected with various types of streptococci. Streptococcal dermatitis is manifested by the appearance on the skin of various rashes that look like bright red spots or vesicles on the skin filled with serous or bloody contents inside. In some cases, skin rashes appear on the face and neck.

Impetigo is a fairly common form of the disease that can be caused by various pathogenic species of streptococcal flora. Characterized this pathology the appearance on the skin of various purulent rashes.

streptoderma

This disease often leads to simultaneous infection with streptococci and staphylococci. The culprits of this disease in most cases are representatives of the pyogenic group of streptococcal flora.

Inflammatory pathologies of the middle ear are usually manifested by the appearance of symptoms of otitis media in a child. This pathology is accompanied by a moderate hearing loss, the appearance of "cod" or "rustling" during a conversation in the ears of a sick baby.

Body temperature in severe streptococcal otitis media usually rises to 38-39 degrees. The child feels unwell, he has difficulty falling asleep and the duration of the night's rest.

In some cases, streptococci enter various lymph nodes, contributing to the development of severe inflammation. Ultimately, this contributes to the development of lymphadenopathy.

A variety of groups of lymph nodes can be involved in the inflammatory process. They significantly increase in size, become available for palpation. The skin over the affected lymph nodes usually becomes red and hot to the touch.

Inflammatory pathologies of the urinary system and genital organs quite often occur due to infection with pathogenic species of streptococci. Girls are more susceptible to these pathologies. This is due to the fact that the babies have a rather short urethra, as well as the close proximity of the external genitalia to the urinary tract.

A pronounced decrease in local immunity also contributes to the activation of the growth of opportunistic streptococcal colonies, which are representatives of the local flora.

Pediatric gynecologists believe that the overwhelming cause leading to the development of colpitis and other pathologies of the genital organs in girls is pronounced dysbacteriosis of the vagina. Such pathologies appear, as a rule, with a sudden onset of itching, which can be quite unbearable.

In girls, urination may be disturbed, cramps or soreness may appear during urine output. In the urinary sediment, a large number of leukocytes are found, and in some cases, erythrocytes may also appear.

Diagnostics

Children's doctors believe that it is not necessary to "carry out" the treatment of tests, but you need to be guided by the initial well-being of the baby. If the child has adverse symptoms of infectious diseases, then in this case he is prescribed complex therapy aimed at eliminating all clinical signs of the disease.

To identify the degree of existing deviations, various laboratory tests are used. They help to determine the boundaries of the norm, as well as to establish pathology.

Streptococci can be detected in various biological fluids and material: in blood, in urine, in a smear from the pharynx and nasopharynx, feces. The accuracy of the study in many cases depends on how well the material was collected.

At streptococcal lesions urinary tract and kidneys in infants, it is very easy to identify infectious agents in the urine.

There are express diagnostic methods. They are used to quickly determine the cause of an infectious disease. These laboratory tests allow you to get the result after ½ hour.

This study should by no means be decisive in establishing the diagnosis. A positive result can only indicate carriage. There are also false positive tests that require careful monitoring.

In the presence of rheumatological complications of diseases, various tests to identify specific markers of these pathologies.

The concentration of protein antibodies to streptococcal flora in glomerulonephritis usually increases several times and persists throughout almost the entire period of the development of the disease. These substances are determined by carrying out a specific neutralization reaction.

Diagnosis is carried out by doctors of various specialties. Streptococcal otitis media and nasopharyngitis are treated by pediatric otolaryngologists. Infectious pathologies of the gastrointestinal tract are treated by gastroenterologists. Skin rashes are within the competence of dermatologists. Diagnosis and treatment of local purulent abscesses carried out by pediatric or purulent surgeons.

Complications

Streptococcal infection is not harmless. Incomplete diagnosis or improperly selected treatment leads to the development of various dangerous complications and long-term consequences of the disease in a sick baby. As a rule, the course of these pathologies is quite severe. In most cases, treatment is carried out only in a hospital setting.

Inflammation lung tissue or pneumonia - a fairly common complication that occurs, as a rule, as a result of streptococcal bronchitis.

This pathology is characterized by the development of severe suppuration in the lungs. This disease is quite difficult. The body temperature of a sick child rises to 39-40 degrees. The baby cannot breathe fully, over time, the crumbs develop symptoms of respiratory failure.

Streptococcus is a very common bacterium that accompanies a person throughout his life. These bacteria live on the skin and on the mucous membranes of the intestines and respiratory tract. Streptococcus in the throat can be completely harmless if the immune system is working properly, and not all varieties of this microorganism are the cause of diseases.

Throat infections caused by streptococcus

Most often, these diseases are caused by streptococcal infection. Streptococcus in a child's throat can cause all these diseases, adults rarely get sick with scarlet fever, but tonsillitis (tonsillitis) is a companion of many adults throughout their lives. The disease tends to become chronic.

Features of streptococci

The most dangerous streptococci belong to group A, the rest can also be pathogenic, but the diseases they cause are easily and quickly cured without complications. One of the representatives of this group is Streptococcus pyogenes. Streptococcus pyogenic in the throat causes inflammation, which is accompanied by the formation of pus. It can be, for example, purulent tonsillitis.

It is not uncommon for hemolytic streptococcus in the throat, its more accurate characteristic is beta-hemolytic, it also belongs to group A. In most cases, this microorganism causes tonsillitis or scarlet fever, which, with adequate treatment, pass quickly, but in some cases it can cause complications, extending to the ears, sinuses.

There is another inhabitant of our throat - green streptococcus, in most cases it does not cause diseases. However, when activated, it can penetrate the heart tissue and lead to endocarditis - inflammation of the inner lining of the heart. Therefore, if green streptococcus is detected in the throat, treatment should be started immediately in order to insure against unpleasant consequences.

Streptococcus is spreading by airborne droplets upon contact with the sick, infection is possible through the dishes used by the sick person.

• hypothermia,
• Throat injury,
• Deterioration of the protective properties of the body.

The pathogen settles on the mucous membrane of the throat and secretes a special protein that suppresses the immune system. If the immune system fails, the infection spreads and disease develops.

How does a streptococcal infection in the throat manifest?

Streptococcus in the throat shows symptoms depending on the developed disease. Usually it begins acutely with a rise in temperature, a deterioration in well-being.

• redness of the pharynx,
• Redness and swelling of the tonsils
• Possible purulent plaque on the tonsils,
• Heat,
• Severe sore throat
• Malaise,
• There may be an increase in submandibular lymph nodes.

Streptococcal tonsillitis is more likely to cause complications than staphylococcal ones, so antibiotic treatment should be started as early as possible. Most cases of rheumatism, glomerulonephritis are the result of tonsillitis, which was not treated or treated incorrectly.

Features of streptococcal infections in children

In children, streptococcus causes not only tonsillitis, but also scarlet fever, although in last years This disease has become less common and easier to proceed. With this disease, in addition to the symptoms of tonsillitis, a rash appears in the form of small red nodules with a rough surface. At the same time, the sick child has a headache, the temperature rises, the kids refuse to eat.

If streptococcus in the throat is activated, treatment should be started immediately. However, the most popular antibiotics are not suitable in all cases.

If the antibacterial drug taken does not work in a particular case, then it will bring more harm than good. However, it takes several days to wait for the results of bacteriological culture, at the same time, complications in the form of a purulent process may already appear on the 5-6th day of the disease.

And this threatens the spread of infection throughout the body and the development of diseases such as sinusitis, meningitis, endocarditis, pneumonia. Therefore, the doctor prescribing treatment must correctly assess the spectrum of action of the drugs and the possible risks.

Uncomplicated infection resolves within a week, and hospitalization for strep is usually not required, except in rare cases.

So, how to treat streptococcus in the throat? The doctor prescribes an analysis to determine the type of pathogen and its sensitivity to antibiotics. From suitable antibacterial drugs, choose the one that will be most effective and safe.

The main goal of antibiotic therapy is the destruction of the causative agent of the disease, that is, streptococcus. This allows you to eliminate the symptoms of the disease and prevent its spread throughout the body, which prevents complications.

• antibacterial therapy,
• Immunocorrection,
• Physiotherapy.

Types of antibiotics to treat streptococcal infections

• penicillins,
• Cephalosporins,
• aminopenicillins,
• macrolides,
• Linkosamides.

The spectrum of antibiotics today is quite large, so if you are allergic to one type of drug, you can always use something from another group of drugs. Thanks to antibiotics, the percentage of complications that develop after suffering streptococcal tonsillitis or scarlet fever has become several times lower.

In addition to general antibiotic therapy, local agents are used. The main thing is gargling with antiseptic solutions. The most effective solution is furatsilina. It successfully destroys bacteria on the surface of the tonsils and pharynx, and acts for several hours.

Then another 3-4 days every 5-6 hours. Thus, it is possible to significantly reduce the number of streptococci directly on the surface of the throat mucosa, which significantly reduces the likelihood of their penetration into the bloodstream and spread throughout the body.

An important part of the treatment is the correction and maintenance of immunity. To improve the protective properties of the body, vitamins, microelements, drugs that are immunomodulators are prescribed.

A sufficient amount of vitamin C is very important, which protects the body from such complications of streptococcus as rheumatism. Among immunomodulators, the main preparations are made on the basis of echinacea.

Physiotherapy improves local blood circulation and stimulates faster recovery if applied in complex treatment. Will be useful KUF nose and pharynx, since exposure to ultraviolet radiation directly on the zones where streptococcus settles allows you to effectively destroy it and raise local immunity.

streptococcus in throat

• alpha-hemolytic streptococcus;
• gamma or non-hemolytic;
• beta-hemolytic or streptococcus pyogenes.

Alpha hemolytic

This type of streptococcus is also called green because of the ability to produce hemolysis of red blood cells, i.e. bleed green tint. It causes serious diseases such as peritoneal abscess, infective endocarditis, meningitis, and pneumonia. You can become infected with such streptoccus through direct contact with infected people, using their personal items, and poor hygiene, but the likelihood of this is less than that of other types of this bacterium.

Non-hemolytic

Another name for this type of bacterium is streptococcus viridans, which includes several more types, for example, mitis. Its habitat is the mouth and intestines. This streptococcus penetrates inside during surgical cleaning or dental treatment and more often causes caries or endocarditis, therefore, together with the alpha species, it is considered less dangerous, but unlike it, it does not contribute to hemolysis of red blood cells.

Beta hemolytic

The cause of a number of dangerous diseases is streptococcus in a child

Streptococcus is one of the most common bacteria on the planet. The bacterial and infectious process in the pharynx and throat of a child can cause diseases such as tonsillitis, periodontitis, purulent tonsillitis, staphylococcus aureus, scarlet fever, pneumonia when the skin is damaged, pyogenic streptococcus in newborns causes streptoderma, as well as erysipelas. Non-purulent strains of bacteria in the throat and urine become causative agents of rheumatism, meningitis, it is against this background that bilateral pneumonia occurs.

Streptococcus, like staphylococcus aureus, causes a particular danger in a child, which lies in the fact that if left untreated, in 90% of cases serious complications occur, such as abscesses, lymphadenitis, inflammation of the kidneys (if bacteria are found in the urine of children), heart and joint disease , pneumonia, suppurative lesion tissues, as well as their necrosis. It is extremely difficult to cure these ailments in advanced forms. Streptococcus in the throat can spread to other areas, for example, causing pneumonia or sinusitis in children in the throat and nose.
Streptococcus and staphylococcus - what do they have in common, what are the differences, symptoms and what treatment is needed? What is the danger of a virus found in the urine of children? Doctor Komarovsky answers all these questions in his programs.

Varieties

In children, there are several varieties of bacteria, as well as their strains. Depending on the type of bacteria, they can cause a separate group of diseases of that organ in the microflora of which they most often live. Famous pediatrician Komarovsky in his program explains the causes and symptoms of the development of the disease in the throat, nose, urine. Komarvsky talks about what pyogenic streptococcus and staphylococcus are, what are the symptoms and what is the treatment.

So streptococcus in the mouth and pharynx producing polysaccharides becomes the cause of caries, and pneumococcal infections belonging to the subspecies of streptococcus, when multiplying in the pharynx of a child, cause bronchitis, pneumonia, meningitis.
The most dangerous are group A beta-hemolytic streptococci that multiply in the urine, which cause a number of dangerous diseases in a child with serious consequences if they are not treated in time. Bacteria in the urine cause complications to the kidneys and genitourinary system.

Non-hemolytic or viridescent streptococcus may be present in the microflora of the oral mucosa, urine or intestines, but when it enters the blood, it settles on the heart valves causing malfunctions. It is this fact that Komarovsky pays special attention to. It is necessary to cure the infection, like staphylococcus aureus, on time.

How infection occurs

Infection with streptococci occurs by contact or airborne droplets. Since the bacterium (like staphylococcus) is well preserved in the external environment, the patient's personal belongings can be sources of infection. In the children's team, diseases such as acute tonsillitis and pneumonia are not uncommon, the causative agents of which are staphylococcus aureus and streptococcus in the throat and nose, transmitted by sneezing and coughing among children.

Symptoms

How to recognize the presence of an infection in the throat was intelligibly explained by Dr. Komarovsky in his program. According to him, with pain in the throat and throat in children, streptococcus is guilty in 30% of cases, and the virus in the remaining 70%. The treatment of the disease in these two cases in children is completely opposite, says Komarovsky, since there is no cure for viruses that is really effective, but streptococcus is a bacterium that can be treated with antibiotics.

But, before using an antibiotic, it is necessary to find out whether streptococcus in a child really caused a sore throat or throat. Komarovsky talks about the fact that the symptoms, or rather their absence, is rhinitis. So, if the baby has snot, a virus is diagnosed, if the baby has a dry nose and a sore throat, there are reasons for concern. Komarovsky tells about all this in detail. Confirmation may be the presence of streptococcus or Staphylococcus aureus in a swab from the throat of a child or his urine.

In addition, says Komarovsky, with the development of a streptococcal infection in the throat and throat, the symptoms in children are as follows:

• Acute sore throat;
• A sharp increase in temperature to 38.5 - 39 degrees;
• Symptoms of fever followed by chills;
• The tonsils become inflamed, sometimes they appear grayish coating or purulent follicles;
• The submandibular lymph nodes in the neck are enlarged.

When testing, streptococcus, like staphylococcus aureus, is found in the urine and blood of a child.

Treatment

An infection in the throat, according to Dr. Komarovsky, requires treatment with antibiotics. Unlike staphylococcus, which over the years has acquired immunity to the first generation of antibiotics, streptococci are easily treatable with the penicillin and cephalosporin group of drugs. At the same time, if staphylococcus is treated only with antibiotics, then streptococcus can be treated with pills that kill bacteria and infection. If the baby has allergic reactions, penicillin can be replaced with erythromycin. Such treatment will be, says Komarovsky, the fastest and most effective.

Treatment with a course of antibiotics for at least 10 days, since it is almost impossible to treat in a shorter period of time, and even in the absence of symptoms, in order to cure it is necessary to complete the course.

Particular attention should be paid to patient care, including:

• Bed rest;
• Plentiful warm drink that removes toxins from the body, you can give the baby rosehip decoctions, raspberry tea, which has a natural antipyretic and analgesic effect;
• Diet with the exception of solid, acidic, or spicy food irritating throat. It can be mashed potatoes, boiled cereals, as well as dairy in which staphylococcus and streptococci do not multiply;
• The use of symptomatic drugs to reduce fever - ibuprofen, ointments or aerosols with local analgesics to eliminate acute pain;
• Gargling with antiseptics or herbal decoctions that have a weak antimicrobial effect.

The use of folk remedies in the fight against streptococcus can be in the form of complementary procedures, such as gargling or strengthening immunity.

Komarovsky also warns that in choosing medicines you should not rely on your knowledge, it is the doctor who should prescribe how to treat streptococcus in the throat, since with ineffective treatment, an exacerbation of the disease or various complications with the addition of bacterial bronchitis or meningitis.

Prevention

The bacterium develops in the absence of resistance of the body, that is, when weak immunity. Children with poor health should be especially careful to visit children's groups or crowded places. If any wounds, abrasions or diaper rash appear on the skin, the area should be treated with hydrogen peroxide until it is completely healed. Particular attention should be paid to the care of the umbilical wound of the newborn, treating it several times a day. Infection in the urine is detected laboratory way, and to cure it is necessary to undergo a course of drug therapy.

There is also a vaccine that protects against 23 types of streptococcus called Pneumo-23. Vaccination is carried out at the request of parents for children from 2 years old with chronic diseases such as diabetes and asthma.

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Each of us from birth interacts with different microflora. One of the most unpredictable is streptococcus. It comes in different forms, depending on which our well-being depends. Very often, people experience a sore throat that is caused by this bacterium.

Streptococcus in the throat: etiology

They are bacteria of a spherical shape, arranged in the form of chains.

They are an integral part of the microflora, but with a decrease in immunity, they can lead to serious health problems.

Good bacteria die under the influence of sunlight, antibiotics and various disinfectant solutions.

Streptococci make up 30-60% of the bacteria found in the throat. They enter the body along with food, feed on the epithelium and food debris. genetic information is contained in the nucleus. Reproduction occurs by division. They belong to the type of gram-positive bacteria. Streptococci can survive in dried sputum and pus for many months and tolerate freezing well.

Reasons for the appearance

Streptococcus enters the throat:

• with exhaled air
• with poorly processed high-temperature foods,
• due to violation of sanitary standards,
• through play with pets,
• with kisses.

Despite the fact that streptococci are almost always in our throat, most of the time a person feels fine. This means that the cells are in a conditionally pathogenic state. Their development and distribution is hampered by correct operation immunity. Any infection, hypothermia and immunodeficiency states can lead to a violation of the normal balance.

Dr. Komarovsky talks about the causes of streptococcal infection in our video:

What diseases does it cause?

The most common is tonsillitis or tonsillitis. Inflammation affects the region of the tonsils. When the protective properties of the body are weakened, the bacteria actively multiply, which is why pus is formed, which is typical for streptococcal, follicular (purulent), lacunar, phlegmonous tonsillitis. Toxins enter the bloodstream, which leads to symptoms of general intoxication.

No less popular disease is pharyngitis. When the disease affects the palatine arches, lymph nodes. The disease has a descending character, therefore, in the absence of proper treatment, bacteria enter the trachea and bronchi. With pharyngitis, the general condition of a person does not suffer much, but if left untreated, it leads to the development of a paratonsillar abscess.

Streptococci cause:

• Scarlet fever. This is an acute infectious disease caused by a beta-hemolytic species of bacteria. In childhood, the symptoms are pronounced. In adults, the picture is often blurred.
• Periodontitis. Inflammation develops in the periodontium, which is located around the affected tooth.
• Pneumonia. If the throat disease is not treated, the infection spreads to the lungs. As a result, there is a lack of oxygen and a violation of gas exchange.

How to distinguish streptococcal tonsillitis, says Dr. Komarovsky:

Symptoms

They may vary depending on what type of streptococcus caused the disease. Febrile states usually appear. Toxins lead to an increase in body temperature. In adults, the indicators may be insignificant, but children are always difficult to tolerate the infection. The waste products of bacteria poison the body. This results in:

• fatigue,
• weakness,
• head and joint pain.

Babies may experience lack of appetite, nausea, and vomiting.

Pictured is a throat affected by a streptococcal infection

Diagnostics

If the symptoms described above appear, you need to seek help from a specialist as soon as possible for a more accurate diagnosis.

Methods

Clinical analyzes of urine and blood are given. a swab is taken from the throat. This is done in order to differentiate streptococcus from Staphylococcus aureus. The resulting medium is subjected to cultivation. In the process, experts carefully study the colonies and count their number.

At the same time, the susceptibility of the resulting medium to various antibiotics is checked.

The final results can be obtained from the doctor after 5 days. Depending on where the inflammation is greatest, a swab is taken from the mucous membrane of the throat, sputum or mucus from the nose.

Types of streptococcus

Bacteria are classified according to whether they secrete red blood cells:

• Alpha-hemolytic streptococci (viridans, viridans, mitis, oralis). They have a destructive effect on blood cells, causing the oxidation of hemoglobin. It becomes green, so this type is often called green. This streptococcus causes bacterial complications.
• Beta-hemolytic streptococci (pyogenic). lead to the destruction of red blood cells. This is the most dangerous view. In the throat, they lead to acute inflammation, which is accompanied by a violent immune response. There is this type of group A and B. The first type is common.
• Gamma hemolytic streptococci. Do not cause destruction of erythrocytes. They live in the mouth and intestines. Normal amounts are not harmful to health.

Types of streptococcus

Norm and pathology of microflora

The norm is a relative indicator. For each person, it depends on the characteristics of the immune system and the balance of microflora. According to average indicators, it is believed that from 10 to 3 degrees to 10 to 5 degrees of CFU / ml, most people have on the mucous membranes.

A small increase in these indicators cannot lead to the development

infections

But if there are complaints about the state of health, then even 10 to the 6th degree CFU / ml is perceived as an increase in performance.

More about streptococcal infections in children:

Treatment

Treatment consists of taking medicines and use of traditional medicine.

Medically

Antibiotics are considered the main enemy of streptococcus. Penicillins, cephalosporins and macrolides are prescribed. The choice of one or another drug depends on the data obtained during laboratory research. Treatment lasts 7-10 days. If the bacteria is resistant to treatment, another type of antibiotic is prescribed.

Antibiotics should be taken immediately after the diagnosis of the disease, as this will not allow complications to develop. Additionally, drugs for immunocorrection are prescribed.

For the treatment of the throat, a solution of furacilin is used. It easily removes microorganisms, protects the mucous membrane for several hours. AT acute period diseases, rinsing should be done every 30 minutes. After 3-4 days, gargle should be done every 5-6 hours. This method allows you to clear the throat, prevent the spread of pathogenic microflora throughout the body. Throat sprays can be used.

Treatment includes taking vitamins, physiotherapy. The latter are aimed at improving local blood circulation, which leads to an acceleration of the patient's recovery. Streptococcal infections often lead to allergic reactions. Therefore, doctors often prescribe antihistamines.

folk recipes

Many herbs have antibacterial properties. Popular is blackcurrant, which inhibits the growth of pathogenic bacteria. It also contains a large amount of vitamin C, which is necessary for strengthening the immune system. Every day you need to eat 250 g of berries. The duration is 3 days.

Rosehip decoction has a good effect. It is drunk twice a day for 150 ml. The thermos holds 1 tbsp. l fruit and poured 250 ml hot water. You need to insist 12 hours. This drink has an astringent, anti-inflammatory effect.

Helps to cope with the infection and tincture of burdock. Vodka is poured into 1 glass of burdock and left for 7 days in a dark place. Take should be 0.5 tbsp. l. 3 times a day.

To speed up the removal of toxins from the body, drink plenty of fluids, and also eat foods high in vitamin C. If folk methods do not help after a couple of days, call a doctor.

Several recipes for the treatment of streptococcal infection in our video:

Surgical method

These methods are used only in extreme cases. If streptococcus has caused the development of chronic tonsillitis, then an operation can be performed to remove the tonsils. But the method is used only in cases where the tonsils are greatly enlarged, interfere with full breathing, and become the cause for constant exacerbations.

What not to do when sick

To prevent the occurrence of complications, it is prohibited:

1. Ignore antibiotics.
2. Eat foods that are too cold or hot.
3. smoke.
4. Visit the sauna and bath.
5. Conduct thermal treatments to relieve pain.

You can not violate the treatment regimen prescribed by the doctor. This is especially true when taking antibiotics. An independent reduction in the duration of treatment or a decrease in dose can lead to the development of streptococcus resistance to drugs. This will lead to a longer course of treatment and increase the risk of complications.

Possible Complications

All complications are divided into two groups:

• Early. Appear for 5-6 days. They are characteristic large cluster pus, its distribution in the blood. As a result, endocarditis, meningitis, otitis media may appear.
• Late. They appear after a few weeks. They are not usually associated with the formation of pus, but often cause kidney complications and the appearance of rheumatism.

The mechanism of development of complications after streptococcal infection is not fully understood, but cross-immunity often becomes the culprit. At such a time, antibodies developed to fight streptococcus are sent to the cells of the body that have been changed under the influence of the pathogen.

In 10% of patients, autoimmune inflammation of the kidneys develops in the absence of adequate treatment. Children are especially affected by the disease. Diseases are also dangerous for the heart, joints and connective tissues.

How not to get infected

Streptococcal infection is highly contagious. The source is almost always a sick person and his household items. But from an asymptomatic carrier, the risk of transmission of the infection is minimal. The disease is transmitted by contact, airborne droplets. If the following factors are present, the risk of infection increases:

• pathology of the endocrine system,
• immune diseases,
• concomitant viral infections,
• chronic diseases of the gastrointestinal tract.

Streptococcal infections are seasonal. Therefore, the possibility of infection increases in late autumn and early winter. You can reduce the risk of infection if you follow basic sanitary rules. If there is a person at home with a disease caused by streptococci, then it is best to isolate him, provide him with a separate towel, bedding and dishes.

How not to get streptococcal infection

Prevention

It is possible to prevent the development of the disease if the treatment of diseases of the nasopharynx is carried out in a timely and correct manner. Immunomodulators can be taken every 6 months, especially for immunocompromised individuals.

preventive actions

include elimination of foci of bacterial infection and early hospitalization of patients with moderate and severe disease. Patients should be followed up for 3 months. Return to normal life should occur no earlier than 12 days after recovery.

Forecast

With adequate treatment, the prognosis for life is favorable. It is more difficult to cure an ailment in a newborn child. Streptococcus can cause death dangerous diseases: sepsis, meningitis, pneumonia.

What are the symptoms and treatment of strep throat?

From birth, a person constantly interacts with the microcosm surrounding him. Bacteria are the main inhabitants of this world. And we have no choice but to put up with their existence.

• What are the symptoms and treatment of strep throat?
• What is streptococcus?
• Causes of streptococcus in the throat
• Is it possible to get a streptococcal infection?
• The norm of streptococcus in the throat
• Types of streptococcus
• Symptoms of streptococcus in the throat
• Symptoms of streptococcus with pharyngitis
• Signs of streptococcus with angina
• Streptococcus with scarlet fever
• Diagnostic methods
• How and how to treat streptococcus in the throat?
• Treatment at home
• Folk remedies
• Antiseptic gargling with alcohol tinctures
• Immunostimulating decoctions and infusions
• How to treat streptococcus in children?
• Features of treatment during pregnancy
• Possible Complications
• What should not be done when sick?
• Prevention of strep throat infection
• Conclusion
• streptococcus in throat
• What is streptococcus and how is it transmitted
• Alpha hemolytic
• Non-hemolytic
• Beta hemolytic
• Symptoms of a strep throat infection
• Streptococcus analysis
• Streptatest
• throat swab
• Treatment of streptococcal throat infection in a child and an adult
• Antibiotics
• Folk remedies
• Video
• Treatment methods for streptococcus in a child
• Features of streptococci
• Diagnostics
• Treatment Methods
• General recommendations
• Antibiotics
• Gargling
• Local antibiotics
• Antipyretic
• Throat Lozenges
• Inhalation with saline
• Folk remedies
• Prevention
• What to do if streptococcus is found in the throat?
• Where does the infection come from?
• Types of streptococcus
• Main symptoms of infection
• Possible Complications
• Is it possible to get rid of the infection?
• Features of the treatment of children
• Additional treatments
• Prevention
• What is dangerous streptococcal infection in the throat: symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, prevention
• Streptococcus in the throat: etiology
• Reasons for the appearance
• What diseases does it cause?
• Symptoms
• Diagnostics
• Methods
• Types of streptococcus
• Norm and pathology of microflora
• Treatment
• Medically
• folk recipes
• Surgical method
• What not to do when sick
• Possible Complications
• How not to get infected
• Prevention
• Forecast

Sometimes it can cause a lot of problems.

Streptococcus in the throat is a common thing for all people. What kind of streptococci does not exist: green, pyogenes, viridans, mitis, hemolytic and non-hemolytic. What does not happen is streptococcus aureus: only staphylococcus is golden.

What is streptococcus?

Streptococcus is the most common group of bacteria. Presented:

• on household items;
• on the skin;
• on mucous membranes;
• in the digestive system.

There are many types of streptococci. Some of them may not yet be open at all. The most pathogenic for the human respiratory tract are:

• Streptococcus hemolytic (pyogenic);
• streptococcus pneumoniae (pneumococcus).

Hemolytic streptococcus is able to destroy blood cells (carry out hemolysis). As a rule, when they talk about streptococcus, they mean exactly this variant of it. Can cause wide range purulent-inflammatory diseases:

• Respiratory diseases;
• abscesses and boils;
• inflammation of internal organs;
• sepsis.

There are also non-hemolytic streptococci. For example, the greening species "mitis" lives in our mouth and, according to some sources, is responsible for the development of dental caries. Another green streptococcus - "viridans" - is a normal inhabitant of the mucous membranes, is not a pathogen.

Causes of streptococcus in the throat

There is no particular reason why these bacteria appear in the throat. We get them in a variety of ways:

• With inhaled air;
• with thermally unprocessed food;
• because of unwashed hands;
• playing with pets (bacteria are present on their fur);
• with kisses (bacteria live in our mouths), etc.

Despite the constant presence of streptococcal bacteria in our respiratory tract most of the time we feel healthy. This suggests that the bacteria are not pathogenic, or that they are in a conditionally pathogenic state. Their development and spread is restrained by the power of the immune system, which invisibly protects us.

Is it possible to get a streptococcal infection?

Streptococcal throat infection can be contracted if the balance of power between microbial attack and immune defense is disturbed.

The imbalance can be caused by:

• Spraying large amounts of pathogenic bacterial particles by another person;
• neglect of hand washing;
• use of other people's personal hygiene items;
• the use of food products not subjected to heat treatment (including ready-made store salads);
• any respiratory viral infection;
• recurrent herpes infection;
• hypothermia;
• immunodeficiency states.

In isolation, each of the above factors cannot lead to the development staph infection in the throat. Otherwise, all the doctors who deal with infected patients (and there is no vaccine for streptococcus) would often get sick. However, this does not happen.

Conversely, children whose immunity is not yet perfect can get a strep throat infection without coming into close contact with a carrier.

Thus, it is possible to become infected with streptococcal infection. But this requires the simultaneous layering of several factors. For example, a person infected with the herpes virus, having become cold, having come into contact with a carrier of a streptococcal infection in the throat, will fall ill with big share probabilities.

The norm of streptococcus in the throat

Doctors believe that it makes no sense to talk about the quantitative norm of streptococcus in the throat. The development of the infectious process depends not so much on the number of bacteria in the throat, but on the ability of the immune system to restrain their spread.

The norm of streptococcus in the throat is a relative indicator. For each person, in accordance with his individual immunity and the balance of the microflora of the mucous membranes of the respiratory tract, the value of the norm can fluctuate by orders of magnitude.

On the other hand, a throat swab is taken when an abnormal bacterial environment is suspected, the patient complains about his condition, and an inflammatory process in the throat is obvious. In this case, receiving in the analysis 10 to the 6th degree CFU / ml, such an amount is considered to be an excess of the norm (if the amount of any other microbe is not significantly exceeded).

Types of streptococcus

Hemolytic streptococcus is conditionally subdivided according to the ability to cause the destruction of blood cells:

• Alpha - partially destructive;
• Beta - completely destructive;
• Gamma is non-destructive.

Beta-hemolytic streptococcus causes the most harm.

Symptoms of streptococcus in the throat

Streptococcus is bacterial purulent infection, which can cause numerous diseases and their corresponding symptoms.

Streptococcal diseases related directly to the throat:

Symptoms of streptococcus with pharyngitis

• Inflammation of the throat, palatine arches and tongue;
• perspiration, abrasion, pain;
• cough;
• slight rise in temperature.

Signs of streptococcus with angina

• Sore throat;
• inflammation (enlargement) of the tonsils;
• pustules appeared, necrotic foci on the tonsils;
• fever (may be very high);
• general intoxication (weakness, headache, nausea, dizziness, fatigue).

Streptococcus with scarlet fever

• All signs of angina;
• a typical scarlatina rash on the body - on the sides, in the groin, on the face;
• the appearance of specific "grains" in the tongue, the raspberry of the tongue.

Diagnostic methods

A throat swab is required to determine the nature of the infection. The medium obtained with the smear is subjected to laboratory cultivation. After that, bacterial colonies are studied, their number is counted, and an antibiotic sensitivity test is performed. Standard analysis is done within 5 days.

But, since streptococcal bacteria are sensitive to all antibiotics, and acute process does not allow waiting for several days, in most cases it is enough to prescribe treatment external signs diseases.

How and how to treat streptococcus in the throat?

The main treatment for streptococcus in the throat is antibiotic (systemic, local). Additionally, local immunomodulators are prescribed.

The type of bacterium for treatment does not matter. Both alpha and beta hemolytic streptococcus in the throat are treated in the same way.

Treatment at home

How to treat streptococcus:

• local antibiotics;
• systemic antibiotics;
• both local and systemic at the same time.

A topical antibiotic traditionally used for bacterial infections of the upper respiratory tract is Bioparox Spray. It is sprayed into the throat 4 times 4 times a day. The standard course of treatment for streptococcus in the throat is 7 days. With positive dynamics, it can be increased.

AT recent times a lot of negative noise is raised around this drug, in particular, about its insecurity and the possibility of complications due to the suppression of the entire microflora of the throat. Despite the fact that Bioparox has been used for more than 50 years, in some countries it has been decided to abandon its use. In Russia, Bioparox is attributed, as Aspirin was once attributed. In our country, this remedy continues to be the gold standard in the treatment of bacterial respiratory diseases.

With streptococcal infection in the throat, accompanied by fever, significant inflammation of the tonsils, antibiotics are indicated systemic action. Streptococcal bacteria are sensitive to a simple and long-used antibiotic - penicillin. To cure streptococcus, penicillin agents are used, for example:

Usually, penicillin preparations appoint 500 mg three times a day for 7-10 days.

Penicillins are toxic not only for streptococcus, but also for the entire intestinal microflora. After a course of penicillin, you need to consume more fermented milk products. An additional intake of eubiotics and probiotics that normalize the intestinal microflora (eg, Lineks) is possible.

We should not forget that, in addition to suppressing the bacterial microflora, in order to get rid of streptococcus in the throat, it is necessary to stimulate the immune response system. Local immunomodulators are shown:

If the development of streptococcal infection in the throat occurred against the background of viral disease, reception of systemic immunomodulators is shown:

Folk remedies

Traditional medicine can be used as an additional to the standard medical treatment of streptococcus in the throat.

Antiseptic gargling with alcohol tinctures

• eucalyptus,
• marigold,
• chamomile.

In addition to the antiseptic effect, these tinctures contribute to the physical washing out of bacteria from the mouth, from the tonsils, and the palatine uvula. They can be prepared at home or purchased ready-made in a pharmacy.

Immunostimulating decoctions and infusions

• Dog-rose fruit;
• roots and leaves of Eleutherococcus;
• echinacea roots.

A good tonic and restorative effect is provided by herbal preparations of Altai and the Caucasus.

How to treat streptococcus in children?

Treatment of streptococcus in the throat in children has no fundamental differences from therapy adult infection. Antibiotic dosages should be reduced. Immunomodulating agents for the treatment of children are not used. The safe spray Aqualor for the throat has also proven itself well in complex treatment.

Features of treatment during pregnancy

Pregnant women are traditionally a difficult group of patients when it comes to infectious diseases. In general, all antibiotics during pregnancy are undesirable. Macrolides are considered the safest for the treatment of streptococcus in the throat of a pregnant woman:

Hexaspray antiseptic spray is effective and has no contraindications for pregnant women.

Streptococcus viridans in the throat of a pregnant woman does not need to be treated specifically. It is part of the non-pathogenic microflora of the oral and throat mucosa.

Possible Complications

Without treatment, a strep throat infection will progress into lower divisions respiratory tract and cause:

Streptococci can enter the middle ear cavity through the auditory tube and cause otitis media.

What should not be done when sick?

• Overheating or hypothermia;
• leaving the house for a long time;
• self-treatment in severe cases.

Prevention of strep throat infection

1. Proper treatment of colds.
2. Timely treatment of infectious foci in the nose.
3. Prophylactic intake of immunomodulators 2 times a year.
4. People predisposed to respiratory diseases should avoid hypothermia.

Conclusion

Streptococcus most of the time quite peacefully coexists with people. A person can get sick if his immunity is reduced or after contact with a streptococcal patient.

The most common throat diseases caused by streptococcal bacteria are pharyngitis and tonsillitis.

Streptococcus can descend into the lower respiratory tract - cause laryngitis, tracheitis, laryngotracheitis, bronchitis, pneumonia.

Treatment for a strep throat infection is always antibiotics.

Do you have a question or experience on this issue? Ask a question or tell us about it in the comments.

Hello. From this article I learned that it was a streptococcal infection. Before that, I often had a sore throat and pharyngitis, gargled with soda and furatsilin, ate various antibiotics, etc. And finally I concluded that they would harden cool water and lead a healthy lifestyle significantly increases immunity from this infection.

Source: throat

A microorganism such as streptococcus settles on plants, the skin of humans and animals, often causing infectious diseases in them. The peculiarity is that the carrier of the bacteria itself can be healthy, but pass it on to others. If streptococcus causes inflammation in the throat, then this causes diseases such as pharyngitis and tonsillitis.

What is streptococcus and how is it transmitted

From the point of view of microbiology, Streptococcus spices belongs to the bacteria of the lactobacillus family, has the shape of a chain of spherical links, while it perfectly coexists with another microorganism - Staphylococcus aureus. In addition, it is Gram-positive, i.e. when detected by the Gram method stained in purple. Like any microorganisms, streptococcus is classified into several types:

• alpha hemolytic;
• gamma or non-hemolytic;
• beta hemolytic or pyogenes.

Alpha hemolytic

This type of streptococcus is also called green because of the ability to produce hemolysis of red blood cells, i.e. give blood a green tint. It causes serious diseases such as peritoneal abscess, infective endocarditis, meningitis, and pneumonia. You can become infected with such streptococcus through direct contact with infected people, using their personal items, and poor hygiene, but the likelihood of this is less than that of other types of this bacterium.

Non-hemolytic

Another name for this type of bacterium is streptococcus viridans, which includes several more types, for example, mitis. Its habitat is the mouth and intestines. This microbe penetrates inside during surgical cleaning or dental treatment and more often causes caries or endocarditis, therefore, together with the alpha species, it is considered less dangerous, but unlike it, it does not contribute to hemolysis of red blood cells.

Beta hemolytic

Group A streptococcus is considered more dangerous and numerous - 49 out of 53 microorganisms belong to this species. Also due to purulent discharge, the term "pyogenic" is applied to it. Another dangerous species is streptococcus agalactia, which belongs to group B and leads to meningitis and sepsis in newborns and pneumonia. This group also includes Streptococcus fecalis and Chaemolyticus. The latter is characteristic of the body of men. Another type of bacterium called streptococcus oralis is harmless during pregnancy only if it is found in the nose and throat, and not in the vagina.

Symptoms of a strep throat infection

If we talk about the skin, then the reproduction of these bacteria causes streptococcal impetigo. The pathology is easily transmitted to susceptible people and manifests itself in small edematous vesicles. Particularly dangerous beta-hemolytic forms in the throat often lead to angina - this is acute or streptococcal tonsillitis. The disease has a high degree of contagiousness and is easily transmitted by airborne droplets. Its symptoms are also characteristic of scarlet fever, only with this disease a red rash is added over the body. Streptococcal angina itself is characterized by the following features:

• sore throat, which is noticeable when swallowing;
• pain in the neck;
• swelling of the mucous membrane of the throat;
• rarely abdominal pain;
• purulent white coating on the tonsils, as in the photo;
• general malaise, chills;
• elevated temperature.

Streptococcus analysis

An analysis for the presence of streptococcus in the throat is indicated when respiratory diseases especially those accompanied by a sore throat. Before the procedure, it is better not to use mouthwashes. In addition to special tests, a doctor may also prescribe general blood and urine tests to determine pathologies in the body and confirm the presence of a microbe.

Streptatest

The doctor at the reception examines the condition of the mucosa to note the presence of swelling and other signs of streptococcus damage. Then the specialist presses the tongue down with a wooden spatula and takes a sample from the tonsils with a cotton swab. The test does not bring pain, only a gag reflex is sometimes noted. In 5 minutes, the specialist conducts a test by placing a test strip, and then reading the result of the presence or absence of streptococcus in the throat.

throat swab

Sowing brings more reliable results, i.e. throat swab. It is taken according to the same scheme as for the rapid test, only the doctor places a cotton swab in a special environment where streptococcus manifests itself as a characteristic growth. When taking an analysis, antibiotic therapy should not be carried out, because this kills the bacterium under study. 2 hours before the procedure, it is not recommended to eat, drink liquids or suck on lollipops. Results often become known after 3-5 days.

Treatment of streptococcal throat infection in a child and an adult

Methods for treating streptococcus in the throat are divided into several areas:

1. Antibacterial therapy including antibiotics different groups such as penicillins, sulfonamides, lincosamides, cephalosporins, erythromycins.
2. Local medicines - sprays, antiseptic solutions, rinses.
3. Antipyretics - Ibuprofen, Paracetamol.
4. Medicines that normalize bowel function after the end of antibiotics, for example, Linex.
5. Taking vitamins, bed rest, and even a special diet with large quantity liquids.

Antibiotics

Antibiotics include the following drugs:

1. "Ampicillin". Antibiotic of the penicillin group. This drug has a wide spectrum of action. Indicated in infectious and inflammatory diseases. The dosage for adults is 500 mg with a frequency of administration up to 4 times. For children up to 20 kg, a single dose of the drug is 25 mg per 1 kg with breaks of 6 hours. The price is from 50 rubles.
2. "Lincomycin". A drug from the lincosamide group. It is used to treat infectious diseases caused by Gram-positive bacteria. For adults, the dose is 500 mg 3-4 times daily. Children under 14 years old - 60 mg per 1 kg. Price from 150 rubles.
3. "Sumamed". The drug of the macrolide group, has an antimicrobial effect against streptococci. It is administered orally 1 time per day 2 hours after or 1 hour before meals. The dosage is 500 mg per day for 3 days. Price from 500 r.

Folk remedies

Beyond funds official medicine, there are folk ways to get rid of streptococcus:

1. Hop infusion. Brew 0.5 liters of boiling water 2 tbsp. l. crushed hop cones, insist 2 hours and consume 4 tbsp. a day before meals.
2. Burdock tincture. Mix the crushed leaves of the plant with vodka in proportions of 1: 5. Take 5 ml three times a day, diluted in water. Effective for non-hemolytic streptococcus.
3. Herbal collection. Mix crushed St. John's wort, string, birch and strawberry leaves with burdock root powder. Take 1 tbsp. l. collection, brew 30 ml of boiling water. Insist 1 hour in a thermos. Use half a glass with 1 tsp. honey for 10 days.

The information presented on the site is for informational purposes only. The materials of the site do not call for self-treatment. Only a qualified doctor can make a diagnosis and make recommendations for treatment based on individual features specific patient.

Source: treatment of streptococcus in a child

How to treat streptococcus in the throat of a child? Features of therapy depend on which pathogen provoked the development of a particular disease.

To date, at least 4 varieties of streptococcal infections have been identified by infectious disease specialists.

However, the greatest danger to the health of the child is group A streptococci, which give complications to the heart, kidneys, brain and joints.

Features of streptococci

The development of a bacterial infection in children may be indicated by: purulent discharge from the nose, lack of appetite, sore throat, high fever, swelling and soreness of the lymph nodes, white plaque on the walls of the throat and tonsils. Beta-hemolytic streptococcus is one of the most dangerous infectious agents. Pathogenic microorganisms provoke inflammation, which is accompanied by the accumulation of pus in the lesions.

The infection can spread to the paranasal sinuses - sphenoiditis, sinusitis, heart - endocarditis, pericarditis, brain - abscess, meningitis or ears - otitis media, eustachitis.

Viridescent streptococcus is an opportunistic pathogen that does not cause disease if the immune system is functioning normally. However, hypothermia, lack of vitamins and minerals can cause a weakening of the protective forces of the child's body. Subsequent active reproduction of gram-positive bacteria leads to poisoning of the body and the development of severe complications, such as endocarditis or pericarditis.

Streptococcus is transmitted by airborne droplets and household contact through toys, towels, dishes and other household items.

Diagnostics

How can you determine the development of streptococcus in the throat in children? It is immediately worth noting that it is impossible to identify the causative agent of infection by clinical manifestations. Symptoms such as purulent sore throat, swelling of the mucosa, nasal congestion, enlargement of the submandibular lymph nodes and a severe runny nose indicate only the development of a bacterial infection, but does not give any idea about the species variety of the causative agent of the ENT disease.

In order to accurately determine the cause of the deterioration in the child's well-being, you need to undergo a hardware examination by a pediatrician and submit biomaterials (a throat swab) for microbiological analysis. Only in this way will a specialist be able to accurately determine the nature of the causative agent of the disease and draw up a competent treatment regimen for the disease.

The waste products of streptococci cause severe allergic reactions, which can cause swelling of the throat and even asphyxia.

The most difficult to treat is beta-hemolytic streptococcus, which quickly penetrates into the tissues of the heart, structures, kidneys, etc. To destroy pathogenic bacteria, antibiotics must be included in the conservative therapy regimen. If the form of the disease is very severe, antimicrobials are administered intramuscularly or intravenously.

Treatment Methods

What drugs can eliminate streptococcus in the oropharynx in children? Treatment of a bacterial infection involves the use of drugs not only systemic, but also local. The simultaneous use of medicines, inhalations and rinses accelerates the child's recovery process.

To prevent drug poisoning, small patients are prescribed only those drugs that contain the minimum amount of toxic substances. In addition, it is very important to observe the dosage and duration of therapy, which can only be set by the attending physician. The basis of drug treatment is antibiotics, which must be supplemented with symptomatic drugs:

• antipyretic;
• antiallergic;
• immunostimulating;
• painkillers;
• anti-inflammatory;
• vasoconstrictor.

If all measures of drug therapy are observed, after 4-5 days the throat is completely cleared of purulent plaque, and the tonsils - from foci of inflammation.

It should be understood that streptococcal infection can recur, therefore, after the end of the antibacterial course, it is advisable to follow preventive measures for ENT diseases. Weakened immunity is not able to cope with large infectious loads, so within a month after recovery, try to limit your child's visits to public places - swimming pools, sports complexes, matinees, etc.

With the development of ENT diseases, special attention should be paid to caring for a sick child. The waste products of streptococci create a considerable burden on the heart, so it is very important that bed rest is strictly observed when the body temperature rises. In parallel with the passage of drug treatment, you need to monitor the implementation of the following rules:

• sparing diet - exclusion from the diet of acidic, spicy, fatty and hot foods that cause irritation of the laryngopharyngeal mucosa;
• drinking regime - drinking at least 1.5 liters of warm drink per day, which accelerates the elimination of toxic substances from the body;
• throat treatment - rinsing a sore throat with antiseptic solutions that cleanse the mucous membrane of pathogens.

When choosing medicines, you can not rely on your own knowledge and experience in the treatment of colds. Streptococcal infection progresses rapidly and in case of irrational treatment can cause terrible complications.

In addition, infectious diseases in children can occur in an atypical form, so the symptoms of bacterial inflammation can be confused with manifestations of viral pharyngitis, catarrhal tonsillitis, laryngitis, etc.

Antibiotics

It is possible to cure streptococcal tonsillitis, pharyngitis and scarlet fever in children only with the help of antibacterial drugs. They destroy pathogenic microbes and help to eliminate the symptoms of the disease. On average, the course of antibiotic therapy is 7-10 days, depending on the stage of development of the pathology and the dynamics of recovery.

For the treatment of small patients, only safe medications are used that do not have a toxic effect. In the absence of complications, streptococcal infection can be eliminated with the help of penicillins:

With the development of chronic tonsillitis, the treatment regimen includes penicillins that are resistant to the effects of beta-lactamase, a special enzyme that streptococci secrete to neutralize the action of antibiotics.

Many penicillin preparations cause allergic reactions in children, therefore, if necessary, they are replaced with cephalosporins:

You can eliminate the symptoms of scarlet fever and mild forms of angina with the help of macrolides. Antibiotics of this group are the least toxic, so they can be used to treat children aged 1-3 years. Among the most effective macrolide drugs include:

Gargling

It is possible to eliminate local manifestations of streptococcal infection - pain, purulent inflammation and swelling with the help of rinses. Sanitizing procedures allow you to clear the mucous membrane of the throat from more than 70% of pathogenic microbes. Regular irrigation of the tonsils and oropharynx with antiseptics has a beneficial effect on local immunity and accelerates tissue healing.

During rinsing, the active components of medications penetrate directly into the foci of infection, which allows you to quickly stop the development of streptococci. Reducing the intensity of inflammatory processes helps to reduce temperature, eliminate muscle weakness and drowsiness. In the treatment of bacterial sore throat in children, you can use the following antiseptic preparations for rinsing:

Preschool children are prone to allergic reactions, so for their treatment it is necessary to select drugs with a minimum content of synthetic components. It is recommended to use herbal remedies based on medicinal herbs for gargling - Elekasol, Tantum Verde, Rotokan, etc.

Local antibiotics

Topical antibiotics are antimicrobial drugs that are available in the form of sprays, rinses and inhalations. They quickly penetrate into the lesions and destroy streptococci, thereby improving the patient's well-being. It is important to understand that the role of topical drugs is secondary, so they cannot be used instead of systemic antibiotics.

Eliminate the manifestations of streptococcal infection allows taking the following medications:

• "Fusafungin" - a medicinal solution for inhalation, which inhibits the reproduction of gram-positive bacteria;
• "Hexetidine" - a low-toxic solution for rinsing the oropharynx, which destroys up to 80% of pathogens in the foci of inflammation;
• Octenisept is a bacteriostatic aerosol preparation that is added to saline solutions for gargling.

To speed up recovery, physiotherapy procedures should be performed daily 3-4 times a week. Systematic cleansing of the mucosa from bacterial plaque will accelerate tissue regeneration, which will help eliminate discomfort when swallowing.

Antipyretic

Fever, high fever, and pain are typical manifestations of a bacterial infection. Along with taking antibiotics, one should not refuse to use symptomatic drugs. Streptococcal tonsillitis and pharyngitis are often accompanied by high fever, sweating, chills, muscle weakness, etc.

Anti-inflammatory and antipyretic drugs can alleviate the child's condition and quickly eliminate the symptoms of intoxication:

It is undesirable for children under 12 years of age to give pharmaceutical products containing acetylsalicylic acid, as this can cause the development of Reye's syndrome.

Antipyretics (fever-reducing medicines) should only be given to children when the temperature is above 38°C. The presence of subfebrile fever indicates that the body is trying to independently suppress the development of streptococci, the cellular structures of which are destroyed when the temperature rises. If you bring down the temperature, this will only contribute to the spread of infection and, accordingly, the deterioration of health.

Throat Lozenges

The advantage of lozenges and lozenges for resorption is the uniform distribution of the active components of the drug along the throat mucosa.

Their composition usually includes anti-inflammatory, analgesic and disinfecting substances that quickly cleanse the laryngopharynx from purulent foci of inflammation.

It is undesirable to give lozenges to children under 3 years old, they may swallow them or choke.

If you suck the lozenges every 2-3 hours, the pain, swelling and discomfort in the throat will go away within 3-4 days. For the treatment of streptococcal tonsillitis and pharyngitis, they usually use:

The composition of most lozenges includes phenol, which destroys microbes and accelerates the epithelization of the mucosa. Components such as hexetidine, ambazon and benzalkonium chloride have a similar effect. To enhance the effect of drugs, it is recommended to pre-gargle with saline solutions. This will clear the laryngopharynx of mucus that prevents the absorption of active ingredients.

Inhalation with saline

Inhalations can soften the throat and eliminate inflammation, which has a beneficial effect on the patient's well-being. To prevent mucosal burns, it is recommended to perform the procedure using a nebulizer. The compact device converts medicinal solutions into an aerosol, which is quickly absorbed by the affected mucosa. In addition, nebulizer therapy is indicated for the treatment of even infants, since it does not cause adverse reactions and fluid aspiration.

A strep throat infection can be treated with nebulizer medications such as:

In most cases, drugs are pre-diluted with mineral water (Borjomi, Essentuki) or saline in a ratio of 1: 1. This allows you to slightly reduce the concentration of active ingredients in the drug, thereby reducing the likelihood of allergic reactions.

To achieve the desired results, during inhalation with a nebulizer, you need to take into account the following nuances:

• the therapy session should be carried out only in a sitting position;
• the duration of one procedure can vary from 7 to 15 minutes;
• only room temperature solutions can be poured into the nebulizer chamber;
• in case of sore throat for inhalation, use a special mask or mouthpiece;
• on average, the course of nebulizer therapy is days (at least 3-4 procedures should be carried out per day).

Do not dilute medicines with herbal decoctions, as they contain sediment that can clog the filter or spray screen, which will lead to device failure.

Folk remedies

Too many parents are skeptical about the use of drugs, because they consider them pure "chemistry". Alternative medicine methods seem to them more effective and safer. In fact, folk remedies can be used in the treatment of ENT diseases, but only in combination with antibiotics.

Gargling with solutions based on natural remedies is considered the most effective. Such folk remedies have a pronounced antibacterial and wound-healing effect:

• infusion of kombucha;
• decoction of medicinal chamomile;
• infusion of oak bark;
• saline solution;
• propolis tincture (diluted with water in a ratio of 1:10).

Too concentrated solutions for rinsing dehydrate the mucous membrane and cause allergic reactions.

Do not forget that alternative medicine is only an addition to the main therapy. With a complete rejection of traditional medicine, the disease can become chronic and cause complications.

Prevention

Beta-hemolytic streptococcus is a rheumatogenic strain of bacteria that can cause disorders in the musculoskeletal and cardiovascular systems. Within 2-3 weeks after the complete disappearance of the symptoms of bacterial inflammation, the risk of developing rheumatism remains - a serious disease characterized by damage to the joints and heart muscle. How can complications be prevented?

Within 10 days after the end of the course of pharmacotherapy, children with a tendency to develop rheumatoid fever are prescribed benzylpenicillins and immunostimulating agents. The former prevent the re-proliferation of streptococci, and the latter increase the activity of immune cells that protect the body from the penetration of pathogenic viruses and microbes.

Some patients are prescribed drugs that normalize the biocenosis, i.e. qualitative composition of the microflora in the oral cavity. If all recommendations are followed, the risk of complications is reduced to almost zero. To convince you that there are no side diseases, it is advisable to undergo an examination by a specialist at least twice within 2-3 weeks after the elimination of the streptococcal infection.

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The information published on the site is intended for informational purposes only and in no case calls for self-diagnosis and treatment. To make informed decisions about treatment and taking drugs, it is imperative to consult a qualified doctor. The information posted on the site is obtained from open sources. The editors of the portal are not responsible for its authenticity.

Higher medical education, anesthesiologist.

Source: what to do when streptococcus is found in the throat?

Having heard at the doctor's office about the presence of streptococcus in the throat, a person is lost, does not know how to react and what to do. How dangerous is it if streptococcus is found in the throat of a child, where did the infection come from, how to get rid of it? Is it possible to prevent infection, what preventive measures will not let you get sick?

Streptococcus is a bacterium. She lives on the mucosa, in the human intestines and for many years may not manifest itself in any way. If the immune system works "like clockwork", then the person will not get sick. A combination of causes disease negative factors, contributing to the activation of staphylococcus and streptococcus in the throat. Bacteria are found in the throat, causing tonsillitis, pharyngitis, tonsillitis, laryngitis.

Where does the infection come from?

The reason that the bacterium in the throat in children and adults begins to actively develop is the primary infection, weakened immunity after SARS. This creates a favorable situation for the reproduction of the colony of streptococcus. In adults, the negative impact is enhanced bad habits especially smoking. It contributes to the constant irritation of the mucosa. In addition, a streptococcal throat infection occurs due to:

• frequent heartburn - from the esophagus, gastric juice enters the pharynx, irritates its surface,
• weak immunity,
• chemotherapy,
• long-term use of glucocorticosteroids.

Infrequently, but there are situations when a person becomes infected in a hospital. The infection develops resistance to many antibiotics, making treatment more difficult.

In newborns, the cause of the disease is often group B hemolytic streptococcus. They can be infected birth canal mothers, and during pregnancy, the number of infections increases dramatically. The likelihood of damage to the baby increases with prolonged labor, rupture of the amniotic membrane. Adults - carriers of the infection - transmit it to the baby by airborne droplets, through objects. This path is also relevant in children's institutions, especially if it is hot in them, the humidity regime is not observed.

It is almost impossible to protect yourself from streptococcus. He is invisibly present in environment. However, most people do not feel its presence. Only under favorable conditions, the infection is activated, begins to multiply actively, and leads to intoxication. Various reasons can disturb the natural balance in the body:

• contact with a sick person who spreads a "cloud" of microbes around him through a cough,
• lack of basic hygiene,
• the use of food products without heat treatment,
• hypothermia,
• decrease in immunity.

If the source of streptococcus is in the nose, then along with the mucus, it constantly enters the throat. The result is inflammation of the tonsils and throat.

Types of streptococcus

Some people are carriers of the infection but do not get sick themselves. Their immunity copes with streptococcus, while a person can transmit the infection to others. Bacteria can be found on household items, on the skin, mucous membranes, and in the intestines. You can only see them under a microscope. They are spherical and form colonies. Their negative effect is due to the ability to release toxins that have a toxic effect on the body. Scientists distinguish different types of streptococcus:

• hemolytic or pyogenic - leads to the destruction of blood cells (hemolysis),
• pneumococcus - causes bronchitis, pneumonia, sinusitis.

Hemolytic streptococcus, in turn, is divided into alpha (partial destruction of cells occurs), beta (contributes to complete destruction), gamma (does not destroy cells). The bacterium causes tonsillitis, pneumonia, pharyngitis, postpartum sepsis.

There are non-hemolytic or viridescent streptococci. Some are safe inhabitants of the mucosa, for example, viridans. The green streptococcus "mitis" lives in the mouth. It is believed that it is he who leads to caries. Therefore, it is recommended to clean or at least rinse the rod after eating.

A feature of streptococci is the instability of some species to temperatures and disinfectants. In addition, they are better than staphylococci, amenable to antibiotic therapy.

Main symptoms of infection

After entering a favorable environment, 3-4 days are enough for bacteria to begin to actively multiply and provoke a disease. Only a doctor can determine exactly what kind of pharyngitis or tonsillitis a patient has - staphylococcal or streptococcal. Therefore, at the first sign of illness, you must contact a medical facility. Symptoms of the disease in patients different ages are slightly different. Children get sick rapidly: 1-2 lung day malaise, and then there is fever, severe pain. Babies under one year old do not tolerate the disease:

• act up, cry, become irritable, refuse to eat,
• the temperature rises,
• green discharge from the nose
• the condition is accompanied by nausea, vomiting.

An older child can voice what specifically worries him. Parents by his condition can notice the onset of the disease. Lethargy, desire to lie down, loss of appetite, swollen lymph nodes - these symptoms indicate that treatment should be started. When questioned, the child complains of dryness, perspiration, headache, he develops a cough. Streptococcus causes an increase in temperature up to 40 degrees.

Examination of the oral cavity allows you to see the redness of the tonsils, possibly the appearance of plaque. The formation of pus causes a sharp deterioration in the condition, symptoms of intoxication appear. Streptococcal pharyngitis is accompanied by a dry cough that gradually becomes wet. If you do not start treatment, the disease will quickly turn into tracheitis. The appearance of a rash on the body may indicate scarlet fever.

Adults get sick no less severely. Symptoms of the disease are largely manifested as in a child. Streptococcus often causes exacerbation of chronic tonsillitis. Its signs are less pronounced, the patient complains of weakness, lethargy, lack of appetite, slight fever, sore throat. In a weakened body, as well as with inadequate therapy, streptococcus quickly spreads to other organs, causing sinusitis, otitis, bronchitis.

Possible Complications

Streptococcus is dangerous because, even after starting the treatment of the tonsillitis or pharyngitis caused by it, the likelihood of complications is high. Separate early and late complications. The early ones appear on the 4-5th day of illness. A person develops otitis, sinusitis, bronchitis, paratonsillar abscess, lymphadenitis.

Late complications can appear several weeks after the person has seemingly recovered. They occur if the duration of the antibiotic was not observed or the treatment was carried out incorrectly. A person has problems with the heart, kidneys, joints, meningitis, osteomyelitis may occur.

The result of streptococcal bronchopneumonia is the rapid spread of infection, leading to the merging of several foci into one. The patient is diagnosed with pleurisy, necrotizing lung disease. In newborns, especially premature babies, a fatal outcome is possible.

Is it possible to get rid of the infection?

Treatment for an uncomplicated staph infection in the throat usually takes a week. The aim of therapy is to reduce the possibility of complications. If you do not start taking antibiotics, then on the 6th day pus forms, which spreads through the body with blood. The result is otitis, pneumonia, meningitis. An untreated infection can "shoot" in a month with inflammation of the kidneys and joints. Determine the type of bacteria and prescribe adequate treatment tests help the doctor. A swab is taken from the throat, bacteria are sown, they are identified, resistance to antibiotics is determined. The choice of medicines is also influenced by the age of the patient, the severity of the disease, the presence of allergies.

The development of streptococcus contributes to the weakening of the immune system. Therefore, immunomodulatory therapy is prescribed simultaneously with antibiotics. It will be useful natural springs vitamins - onions, raspberries, garlic, carrots, herbal decoctions. Tired of fighting the infection, some patients wonder if the removal of the tonsils will help to forget about streptococcus forever? No, the infection will find other places to breed. An indication for tonsillectomy is an increase in the tonsils to a size that interferes with breathing, and frequent exacerbations - 3-5 times a year.

Features of the treatment of children

Diseases provoked by streptococcus in children manifest themselves as a headache, a sharp increase in temperature, weakness, loss of appetite. Streptococcus causes angina or scarlet fever. The symptoms of these diseases are initial stage are similar. characteristic feature scarlet fever is small rash, localized on the lateral parts of the body, the folds of the limbs. Treatment should be under the supervision of a pediatrician in order to exclude the occurrence of complications.

After scarlet fever, for the first time after recovery, it is necessary to protect the child from contact with carriers of the infection, otherwise there is a high probability of developing allergies or complications. Do not rush to return to the children's team, you need to give the baby time (up to 3 weeks) to restore immunity.

The choice of drugs for treatment, their dosage depends on the age and weight of the child. Usually, the doctor prescribes antibiotics of the penicillin (Benzylpenicillin, Ampicillin) or tetracycline (Oleandomycin, Erythromycin) series. If a patient is allergic to penicillin, then cephalosporins (Supraks, Cefalexin) are used for treatment.

The course of treatment is 5-10 days. Antipyretics (Paracetamol, Ibuprofen) are used to relieve fever and pain. Lozenges or lozenges, sprays will help remove dryness, perspiration, pain from the throat. Before using any product, you must check the presence of age restrictions. So, for example, sprays are not prescribed for children under 3 years old. This is due to the high probability of spasm of the larynx, which can lead to suffocation.

An important part of treatment is drinking plenty of fluids. It helps to remove accumulated toxins. You can drink warm tea, juice, water. A mandatory procedure is rinsing. For the throat, drugs with a pronounced anti-inflammatory effect are used - furatsilin, chlorhexidine, chamomile, sage. Vitamins are prescribed to maintain immunity. The patient must comply with bed rest.

Additional treatments

Some people develop misconception that taking antibiotics completely replaces other therapeutic measures. They wonder why they should be treated with herbs if the antibiotic will “kill” all microbes anyway. This statement is only half true. When the medicine begins to "kill" the bacteria, it is necessary to take measures aimed at restoring the mucosa.

Irrigation and gargling relieve pain, “wash away” the infection from the mucosa. For this purpose, a solution of furacilin is used, sea ​​salt, soda. Rinse with these products as often as possible. In the first days of the disease - every half hour, then can be reduced to 3-4 times a day. Rinse can be prepared from beetroot juice obtained from 2-3 root crops with the addition of a spoonful of table vinegar. In 100 ml warm water add a tablespoon of the mixture, use it to rinse.

Folk remedies have an effective anti-inflammatory, astringent, antiseptic effect. They can be used orally, they can also be used for inhalation, compresses. Vitamin therapy is prescribed to boost immunity. An excellent immunostimulating effect has a decoction of wild rose and raspberries. It is necessary to crush ten rose hips, add a tablespoon of dry raspberry leaves to them, pour a liter of boiling water over the floor, leave for an hour. Drink instead of tea 3-4 times a day.

When relief comes, the fever subsides, they begin physiotherapy. They improve blood flow to organs, stimulate recovery. Useful for diseases of the throat is the KUF of the pharynx and nose. Ultraviolet affects directly streptococcus, effectively destroying it.

Prevention

So what to do if the test results showed the presence of streptococcus in the throat? You can do nothing. You need to treat a specific disease. If we hypothetically imagine the situation that in the morning it was possible to remove streptococcus from the pharynx, then by the evening it will definitely be there again. There are enough sources for this. While the immune system copes with pathogenic microflora the person will not get sick. Therefore, preventive measures are reduced to maintaining immunity.

In no case should you prescribe yourself a “prophylactic” antibiotic treatment. Such an attempt will lead to the fact that the bacteria will adapt to the drug. Therefore, it will become more difficult to deal with them and their "descendants". Main preventive measures is the observance of personal hygiene, the implementation of measures aimed at strengthening the immune system.

Streptococcal infection includes a complex of various diseases caused by one pathogen - streptococcus. Normally, it can be present in the human body, coexisting harmoniously with it. But under adverse conditions, this friendly microbe turns into pathogenic flora, which causes a painful process in the child's body.

Moreover, its types are diverse: from a slight runny nose to fatal septic forms.

Kinds

Streptococcus is an oval-shaped bacteria. They are usually arranged in groups, forming long chain. They can live in almost all body systems: respiratory, digestive, reproductive, nervous. But their favorite places are the nose, throat and skin. Streptococcus reproduces well in the blood, and the optimum temperature for it is 37 °.

In nature, there are about 100 types of these bacteria. All of them are divided into 3 groups depending on the ability to cause hemolysis (destruction) of red blood cells:

• alpha-hemolytic - lead to incomplete hemolysis of red blood cells;
• beta-hemolytic - contribute to complete hemolysis. They are the causative agent of diseases such as tonsillitis, scarlet fever, rheumatism and others. The most extensive group of streptococci, having types A, B, C ... U;
• non-hemolytic - do not cause hemolysis.

Of particular importance in the development of pathological processes are such forms of streptococcus:

• pyogenic streptococcus - belongs to the beta-hemolytic group. Its favorite habitat is the pharynx, as well as the skin. One of the most common ailments caused by this strain is scarlet fever. A special role is given to pyogenic streptococcus in the occurrence of pyoderma, such as impetigo. It can manifest itself in the form of blisters, jamming, depriving;
• pneumococcus - this microbe is involved in the development of pneumonia and bronchitis of streptococcal origin;

• enterococci - cause severe processes, up to septicemia;
• mitis - lives in the oral cavity, do not exclude its role in the formation of caries;
• aureus - a favorite habitat - the mucous membrane of the upper respiratory tract, skin.

Streptococci of the viridans type form a special group. This type of bacteria is not in vain has such a name. It means "green" in Latin. Just such a color is obtained during their hemolysis. This species is slightly toxic and practically does not participate in the development of diseases.

As stated above, streptococcus can exist in the human body in a harmless form without causing any manifestations.

In this case, there is a carrier: the microbe is there, but the disease is not.

The reasons

Streptococcus can enter the child's body in several ways:

• airborne - the most common way. During coughing or talking, drops of saliva with microorganisms accumulate in the air, then they are inhaled by a healthy person;
• household: microbes can survive in dried sputum for several months. At the same time, high humidity and low temperature are a favorable environment for their development;
• sexual;
• alimentary - infection occurs through contaminated food and dirty hands;
• in newborns, infection occurs from the mother through seeded amniotic fluid and during passage through the birth canal.

There is also such a way of infection as self-infection.

The causes of streptococcal infection can be:

• dental interventions;
• chronic infectious processes;
• invasive manipulations;
• popping pimples.

Pathogenesis

First of all, the upper respiratory tract is the entry gate for streptococcus. The second is skin damage. These are the primary foci of inflammation, where infection begins to develop, where microorganisms release their toxins and tissue destruction occurs.

Streptococcus attacks the body in three ways.

Infection

Concentrating in the primary focus of infection, the pathogen begins to intensively divide, causing tissue inflammation. The process can be localized, or it can spread beyond the entrance gate, affecting other organs, regional lymph nodes. Streptococcus produces a number of enzymes that accelerate the development of the pathological process:

• streptokinase: during inflammation, fibrin is released, which inhibits its spread. Streptokinase breaks it down, due to which the inflammatory process becomes diffuse and can lead to the formation of phlegmon;
• hyaluronidase: destroys the membranes of connective tissue cells, their permeability increases, intensifying the inflammatory process.

Intoxication

Streptococcus secretes a number of toxins, which, when absorbed, cause intoxication of the body. Its severity depends on the immunity of the patient and on the dose of the pathogen:

• streptolysin has a toxic effect on red blood cells;
• leukocidin destroys leukocytes and inhibits phagocytosis, reducing the immune response;
• necrotoxin causes purulent inflammation;
• erythrogenic toxin is characteristic of scarlet fever. It has a general inhibitory effect on the body.

Allergy

Streptococcus not only protects itself from the human immune system, but also causes sensitization of the body, programming the immune system to work against it. At the same time, its own immunity, instead of destroying the pathogen, infects its own cells and causes autoimmune diseases. To do this, streptococcus produces several substances that start this process:

• the pathogen is covered with a capsule that protects it from phagocytosis;
• capsule secretes protein M, which causes the development autoimmune diseases such as rheumatism, glomerulonephritis and vasculitis. It draws fibrin of the connective tissue towards itself. At the 3rd week of the disease, the body secretes antibodies that mistakenly take the connective tissue of their body for the M protein and destroy their own cells.

Acting in these three directions, streptococcus has a massive and daring attack on the child's body.

Symptoms, signs and manifestations

Streptococcal infection in children has a fairly wide range of lesions and can affect any organ, depending on the type of disease. But despite the form of the disease, there are signs that unite them:

• incubation period - up to 5 days;
• acute onset;
• the child is lethargic, adynamic, refuses to eat;
• high temperature up to 40 °;
• nausea, vomiting;
• rash;
• weakness, headache.

Specific manifestations depend on the localization of the process:

• In the mouth infection may present as caries. Streptococci contribute to the release of lactic acid, which causes the destruction of enamel.
• In the throat streptococcal infection manifests itself in the form of:

1. angina or tonsillitis: there is severe pain in the throat. The tonsils are hyperemic, edematous. They are covered with a white coating. Enlarged lymph nodes;
2. pharyngitis: red throat, pain when swallowing. Small children are restless, refuse to eat;

• If the entrance gate is nose or nasopharynx, the disease is primarily manifested runny nose. Nose is stuffed. A thick purulent discharge of green color appears. Typical cough.
• On the skin streptococcal infection appears dermatitis and pyoderma. A rash of various kinds appears on the skin of the face, trunk, and extremities. It can be small-dotted elements or red spilled spots. For children under one year old common causes pyodermas are diaper rash.

If the hygiene of the baby is not observed, they become infected and suppurate.

• Separately, it should be said about the localization of the process into the vagina. Here the causative agent of infection is streptococcus agalactia. At the same time, girls have discharge purulent nature, itching, pain when urinating, pain in the lower abdomen. If a pregnant woman is a carrier of streptococcus agalactia, then she will most likely infect the baby with a streptococcal infection.
• When defeated nervous system streptococcus in a child develops meningitis.

• If the pathogen is introduced into the respiratory tract, may develop pneumonia, bronchitis, as well as the defeat of the sinuses.
• When the pathogen circulates in blood develops a generalized form of the disease sepsis.

Forms

There are acute and chronic forms of infection. Chronic is characterized by mild symptoms, has a slow course. Its main features include:

• temperature rise;
• weakness, increased fatigue;
• headache;
• joint pain;
• disruptions in the work of the heart;
• rapid breathing;
• purulent discharge from the nose.

The acute form is characterized by a rapid onset and a rapid course. Depending on the place of introduction of the pathogen, its types are distinguished:

• Angina or acute tonsillitis- tonsillitis. Accompanied by sore throat, white plaque on the tonsils. Their inflammation can be lacunar, follicular and necrotic.
• Pharyngitis. With this form, the back wall of the pharynx becomes inflamed. Characterized by a sore throat, cough, slight fever. If the infection goes down, then bronchitis or pneumonia may develop.

• Scarlet fever. This is a childhood infection. Characterized by high temperature. The disease begins with acute purulent tonsillitis. At the same time, the “flaming” pharynx is bright red. A small punctate rash appears on the skin, rough to the touch. It abundantly covers the face, inguinal region, lower back, flexion surfaces. Then the rash begins to peel off.
• Periodontitis. This is a gum disease that develops when oral hygiene is not followed or in the presence of concomitant diseases. The gums are inflamed, bleeding.

• erysipelas. This is an inflammation of the deep layers of the skin. Develops in violation of integrity skin. The general condition is broken. Body temperature rises to high performance. The affected area of ​​the skin swells, becomes scarlet. After some time, vesicles filled with liquid appear on erysipelas.

• streptoderma. Inflammation of the superficial layers of the skin. The least severe form is impetigo. It is characterized by the formation of vesicles with purulent contents. In children, it manifests itself as seizures, as well as in the form of lichen. The most aggressive form of streptoderma is ecthyma vulgaris. It develops in children under 1 year of age. A seal appears on the skin with a bubble in the center. Then the infiltrate is covered with a crust, and an ulcer appears under it.

The general condition of the baby is disturbed. The fever rises and the lymph nodes increase.

• Endocarditis. Severe heart disease, in which its valves become inflamed. Accompanied by fever, increased sweating, disruption of the heart, shortness of breath.

streptoderma

• Meningitis. It develops as a secondary disease from other foci of infection. Causes inflammation of the membranes of the brain. Unbearable headaches, hyperthermia, vomiting, clouding of consciousness, all the characteristic meningeal signs appear.
• infections reproductive system.
• Sepsis. It develops when bacteria multiply in the blood. This is a severe infection, which is characterized by a violation of the general condition, fever, but the absence of an infectious focus.

A streptococcal infection can leave behind many complications, but the most common include:

• rheumatism- This is a consequence of angina. It is characterized by an autoimmune process in which the immune system attacks the tissues of the body. First of all, the heart and joints suffer. There are failures in the work of the heart, shortness of breath, increased sweating, hyperthermia. Pain appears in large and medium joints. They swell, the skin over them turns red, stiffness of movements appears;

• glomerulonephritis- inflammation of the glomeruli of the kidneys. It is also immune. The work of the kidneys is disrupted. There are swelling, pain in the lumbar region. The pressure rises to high numbers;

• systemic vasculitis- a disease of the vessels, in which hypertrophy of their walls develops. The vascular lumen decreases, which leads to impaired blood circulation.

The child is rapidly losing weight, appear muscle pain, dermatitis, respiratory disorders, chest pain, nervous manifestations.

Diagnostics

To confirm the presence of streptococcal infection, a bacteriological study is performed. There are express tests that allow you to set the result in 30 minutes. But more often they use bacteriological cultures, the results of which have to wait several days. They allow not only to identify the pathogen, but also to determine its type and sensitivity to antibiotics.

Bakposes are produced by the following methods:

• a swab from the pharynx and nose, as well as vaginal discharge and purulent contents of wounds. Manipulation is carried out with a sterile swab, the contents are applied to the media where the pathogen will grow;
• scraping from the surface of the skin;

Streptococcus bacteria, both harmful and quite safe for the human body, surround us everywhere. And often cause serious illness - and in children much more often than in adults. How can you tell if a child is developing a streptococcal infection? And how to treat it correctly?

Most often, we are talking about streptococci and their harmful effects on children's health when the baby complains of a sore throat ...

Who are streptococci?

Streptococcus is a very large and numerous genus of bacteria that usually affects the respiratory and digestive tract, especially the throat, nose and large intestine.

Streptococci in children cause many diseases. And most parents are well acquainted with these "sores": periodontitis, erysipelas, lymphodenitis, streptoderma, and others ... Moreover, streptococci can cause both purulent diseases (tonsillitis, pneumonia, erysipelas, etc.), and not purulent (for example, rheumatism).

However, in fairness it should be said that in the streptococcus family, along with harmful species, there are also useful ones. For example, some types of lactic acid streptococci help milk turn into kefir or fermented baked milk.

In addition, some types of streptococci live quite peacefully in the gastrointestinal tract and in the throat, without causing any harm to the health of the child.

Reproducing in the human body (and thus marking the development of infection), streptococci bacteria are usually arranged in pairs, or in groups of pairs, or forming a kind of chain. Symptomatically, an increase in the number of streptococci is expressed by a strong increase
child's body temperature.

If the throat hurts - does it mean streptococcus?

And yet, most often, both doctors and parents recall the activity of streptococci precisely in connection with the development of a particular disease. In most cases, once. However, contrary to popular belief, especially common among parents, not all inflammation in the child's nasopharynx is the result of the activity of streptococci.

Only about 30% of all acute diseases in the nasopharynx are caused precisely by the activity of streptococcus. The remaining 70% is accounted for by the activity of various viruses that cause acute respiratory infections(). In this regard, parents should understand that drugs in one and the other case are radically different - drugs that effectively kill bacteria are completely powerless against viruses, and vice versa.

Thus, the first task that parents of children face when a child develops an ailment (especially for problems that occur in the respiratory tract) is to clearly determine: does the child have a virus or a streptococcal infection?

Parents can help with this in any modern medical institution that uses the so-called rapid test for the direct detection of streptococcal antigen in a child: the doctor literally for a second applies a special strip of paper to the tonsil (sometimes just to the back of the throat) of the child and according to the changed (or not) the color of the test gives a clear picture of the presence (or absence) of streptococci in the baby's throat.

In modern pharmacies, you can often buy special means for express diagnostics at home - the so-called streptotests. Simple strips are enough in literally slobber words to see if the child has streptococcus in his throat or not.

Treatment of streptococcal infection in a child

Streptococcus bacteria have two distinctive features:

• streptococci can cause a considerable number of deadly diseases in children;
• in contrast, streptococci are extremely inefficient in developing resistance to antibiotics (which means that it is relatively easy to find a medicine to treat streptococcal infections in a child, and the same medicine can be used years later).

Dosage forms of antibiotics in the treatment of streptococcal infections can be different - and there is not always a need for injections. Very often, drugs (after they are prescribed by a qualified doctor!) Can be given both in tablets and in syrup, etc. The most important thing is that the medicine reaches the focus of inflammation and has the necessary effect on the streptococcus bacteria.

On average, the treatment of streptococci in children lasts about 10 days - this is the course of taking antibiotics. Drugs, of course, should be prescribed by a doctor (and not mom, dad, or a neighbor on the floor!), However, in most cases, simple and affordable antibiotics such as penicillin or erythromycin are best suited for effective treatment of streptococcal infections.

Penicillin and erythromycin effectively cope with the activity of harmful streptococci in children - moreover, just one day of administration is enough for a streptococcal patient to become not contagious to others. However, it is very important, even with a clear improvement in the child's well-being (which correct reception antibiotics comes in a few hours), withstand strictly and obediently full course taking the drug.

And what to do if the child has streptococcus, but the disease does not

Often there are reverse situations - during an analysis or test, the presence of dangerous streptococci is found in the child's throat, but at the same time, the baby does not show any symptoms of a streptococcal infection. How to behave in this case?

Usually, domestic doctors persuade parents to the so-called preventive treatment of a child with antibiotics. In other countries, in our time, the approach to streptococcus is already more delicate - it is believed that if these bacteria, although present in the body of a child, do not cause illness in him, then such a child does not need any treatment at all.

According to statistics, among the adult population, about 15-18% of people are permanent carriers of harmful streptococci. For children, this figure is slightly higher - about 30%. However, as long as the child is healthy on his own, he is not at all contagious to others. And it doesn't require any treatment.

How can you get streptococci?

Harmful streptococci can only be "picked up" from a person with a streptococcal infection. We repeat: just a carrier of streptococci is deprived of the opportunity to share them with others.

Streptococci in children are transmitted in the following ways:

• contact;
• Airborne;
• With food.

There are more than enough ways!

What happens if a streptococcal infection in a child is not treated at all

Perhaps, in some parental heads, the question has arisen: if it is possible not to treat the very presence of streptococci in the child’s body (when an analysis or test shows their presence, but there are no signs of infection), then is it possible to ignore the treatment of streptococcal infection as well? No, definitely not.

And the reason for this is very weighty - in the absence of proper and timely treatment, any streptococcal infection will come around with severe complications, and it is likely that it will negatively affect the general health of the child.

So, untreated streptococcal infections can “reward” a child the following diseases and complications:

• Severe forms of allergies;
• Purulent;
• Chronic lymphadenitis;
• Inflammation of the heart membranes and others.

Among the most dangerous complications is the development of autoimmune lesions of organs and systems (diseases in which the child's immunity "accepts" healthy cells of body tissues, modified by bacteria for the bacteria themselves, and begins to attack them), as well as the occurrence of toxic and septic lesions of organs and systems.

In other words, without treating a streptococcal infection in the throat of a child (for example, common sore throat), you risk in the future "acquainting" this child with such terrible diseases as sepsis, rheumatoid arthritis(an incurable disease that dehydrates the body over time and leads to death from suffocation), glomerulonephritis (an autoimmune inflammation of the kidneys) and others.

Streptococcus and newborn babies

Harmful streptococci pose the greatest danger to newborn babies.
If the fetus becomes infected with a streptococcal infection during childbirth (which is very likely, for example, if streptococci enter the birth canal future mother), then there is a high risk of a child being born with severe symptoms: high fever, skin lesions, inability to breathe on their own. Sometimes these children have inflammation of the membranes of the brain. All these symptoms are caused by a special streptococcal infection of the baby's blood. Alas, not all babies born with streptococcal infection survive.

Let us clarify that not all streptococci that can potentially infect his mother pose a threat to an unborn child - for example, those bacteria that are found in a pregnant woman in her nose or throat are practically not dangerous. Another thing is a special type of vaginal streptococci, which the child risks becoming infected with during childbirth.

As a rule, in order to dispel the worries of the expectant mother, doctors take a streptococcus test from her at about 35-37 weeks of pregnancy.

If a dangerous streptococcus is found in a future mother, then the risk of streptococcal blood infection in a newborn is 1:200. If, right during childbirth, a woman is injected special antibiotic, then the risk of developing a terrible infection in an infant is reduced to 1:4000.

Streptococcus in a child: about the most important thing

So, streptococci (like staphylococci) from time immemorial live with us in the closest invisible neighborhood - around each of us, even at the moment, there are probably people who are constant carriers of potentially dangerous streptococci.

And yet, any carrier can carry his streptococci with him all his life, but never get sick with a streptococcal infection. And accordingly - without infecting anyone, since it is impossible to "catch" the infection from the carrier (and perhaps only from a sick person).

Streptococcal diseases - a great variety, and almost all of them are very common in children. The lion's share of these diseases is high risk severe complications, if you do not treat them, and practically "in no time" disappear without a trace - if you treat them correctly and in a timely manner.

The vast majority of streptococcal infections are treated with simple (and mind you - very affordable for any wallet) antibiotics - like penicillin and erythromycin.