Understanding Strep Throat: A Comprehensive Guide from SCENT Houston – Sinus Center & ENT Specialists of Houston

Madeleine Herman
Nov 24, 2025
3 min read

Updated: Dec 2, 2025

Strep throat is a common cause of severe sore throat, particularly among children, teens, and adults who frequently suffer from upper respiratory infections. Most cases resolve quickly with antibiotics. However, some patients experience recurrent infections that may require evaluation by an ENT specialist.

At SCENT Houston, we help patients understand what strep throat is, how to treat it effectively, and when it’s time to consider more permanent solutions like tonsillectomy.

What Is Strep Throat?

Strep throat is a bacterial infection caused by Group A Streptococcus. Unlike viral sore throats, strep throat tends to come on quickly and can be quite painful.

Common Symptoms Include:

Sudden, severe sore throat
Pain with swallowing
Fever
Swollen tonsils or white patches
Swollen lymph nodes in the neck
Headache or body aches
Absence of cough (a key distinction from a viral cold)

A rapid strep test or throat culture is required to confirm the diagnosis.

How Is Strep Throat Treated?

Strep throat is treated with antibiotics, most commonly:

Penicillin
Amoxicillin
Cephalexin

Antibiotics help to:

Reduce symptoms
Shorten the course of the infection
Prevent complications like rheumatic fever
Decrease contagiousness

Most people feel significantly better within 24–48 hours of starting medication.

Why Does Strep Keep Coming Back?

Some patients experience recurrent strep throat, which may be due to:

Deep tonsil crypts that trap bacteria
Exposure to school or daycare environments
Antibiotic-resistant strains
Chronic carrier states

If strep throat keeps returning, it may be time for an ENT evaluation.

When to See an ENT Specialist

It’s important to see an ENT when strep throat becomes:

Frequent
Severe
Disruptive to school, work, or sleep
Combined with tonsillitis, snoring, or enlarged tonsils

An evaluation helps rule out chronic tonsil disease or other underlying airway problems.

When to Think About Tonsillectomy

A tonsillectomy is one of the most effective treatments for patients with repeated throat infections or tonsil-related issues.

You May Be a Candidate If:

👉 7 or more infections in one year

👉 5 per year for two consecutive years

👉 3 per year for three consecutive years

👉 Recurrent strep with high fevers

👉 Difficulty swallowing due to large tonsils

👉 Sleep-disordered breathing or snoring

👉 History of peritonsillar abscess

👉 Chronic tonsil stones, bad breath, or repeated tonsillitis

Removing the tonsils reduces the frequency and severity of throat infections and improves long-term quality of life.

The SCENT Houston Approach

At SCENT Houston, we offer:

Expert diagnosis of recurrent strep and tonsillitis
In-office testing and evaluation
Personalized medical treatment plans
Tonsillectomy when appropriate
Compassionate adult and pediatric ENT care

Whether you're dealing with your first strep infection of the season or your fifth, we’re here to help you breathe, sleep, and feel better.

Understanding the Importance of Timely Treatment

Timely treatment of strep throat is crucial. Delaying treatment can lead to complications, including rheumatic fever and kidney inflammation. If you suspect you or your child has strep throat, seek medical attention promptly.

The Role of Prevention

Preventing strep throat can be challenging, especially in environments like schools and daycare centers. Good hygiene practices, such as frequent handwashing and avoiding close contact with infected individuals, can help reduce the risk of transmission.

The Impact of Strep Throat on Daily Life

Recurrent strep throat can significantly impact daily life. Frequent absences from school or work can lead to academic or professional setbacks. Additionally, the discomfort associated with strep throat can affect sleep and overall well-being.