If you develop strep throat more than once during a respiratory season, it is considered recurring.
Why You Get Recurring Strep Throat
Recurringstrep throathas been the subject of several research studies.
In one, researchers examined why some people experience reinfection while others resist it.
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Risk Factors
Strep throatcan occur in anyone of any age.
The most significant risk factor is being in close contact with someone with strep.
While both turn up a positive strep test, that is often where the similarities end.
However, sometimes atonsillectomy(surgery to remove the tonsils) may be an option.
GAS Colonization
With GAS colonization, symptoms are atypical of strep throat and might includecoughand congestion.
Often, whenantibiotics are ineffective, it may indicate aviral infectionrather than GAS reinfection.
In that case, the illness generally runs its course.
This can happen when the bacteria remain in the tonsils even after a course of antibiotics has been completed.
The infection may then reactivate when the immune system is challenged.
Preventing Recurring Strep Throat
Preventing recurring infections is the same as how to prevent strep throat initially.
Mainly that involves good hygiene practices:
Recurring episodes most often occur in school-age children.
Can you get recurring strep throat right after finishing antibiotics?
This is especially true if you didn’t complete your antibiotic regimen or missed doses.
You may also be a strep carrier and have a viral infection.
Some people tend to be more prone to developing frequent infections.
Recurring strep throat infections are treated the same way as a primary infection.
Antibiotics are the first-line treatment for strep throat.
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