Bacterial Pharyngitis
1 medicine
Bacterial pharyngitis is a throat infection caused by bacteria, most often group A Streptococcus, and is treated with a short course of antibiotics such as cefadroxil.
Key facts
- Bacterial pharyngitis is an infection of the throat and tonsils caused by bacteria rather than a virus, most often group A Streptococcus (strep throat).
- It causes a sudden, severe sore throat, pain on swallowing, fever above 38 C, swollen neck lymph nodes, and white or yellow patches on the tonsils; a runny nose and cough are usually absent, unlike a viral sore throat.
- A confirmed bacterial infection is treated with a course of antibiotics; cephalosporins such as cefadroxil are commonly used and generally well tolerated.
- See a doctor promptly if breathing or swallowing becomes difficult, if one side of the throat looks severely swollen, or if a high fever lasts beyond 48 hours on treatment.
What bacterial pharyngitis is
Bacterial pharyngitis is an infection of the throat and tonsils. Group A Streptococcus, the bacterium behind strep throat, causes most cases, though other bacteria can be responsible too. It behaves differently from viral pharyngitis, which usually clears on its own within a week. Bacterial infections tend to persist longer and carry a small risk of complications such as rheumatic fever if left untreated.
Symptoms
The illness typically comes on quickly: a severe sore throat, pain when swallowing, a fever above 38 C, and tender, swollen lymph nodes in the neck. White or yellow patches often appear on the tonsils. A notable clue is what is missing: a runny nose and cough are uncommon with bacterial pharyngitis, which helps separate it from a cold or a viral throat infection.
How it is treated
A confirmed bacterial cause calls for a course of antibiotics. Cephalosporins such as cefadroxil are frequently prescribed and tend to be well tolerated. Finishing the full course matters: stopping early can leave bacteria behind and raise the risk of complications. Rest, plenty of fluids, and warm salt-water gargles help ease discomfort while the antibiotic takes effect.
When to see a doctor
Get medical attention quickly if breathing or swallowing becomes difficult, if the throat looks severely swollen on one side (a possible sign of an abscess), or if a high fever persists beyond 48 hours despite antibiotics. Prompt treatment of a confirmed strep infection also reduces the small risk of rheumatic fever later on.
This page is educational and does not replace advice from a doctor or pharmacist who knows your health history.