Also called strep throat, an infection caused by bacteria that may bring on a sore, scratchy throat.

Strep throat is most common in children. But it can affect people of all ages. Without treatment, strep throat can cause health problems such as an inflamed kidney or rheumatic fever.

Strep throat symptoms can include throat pain, painful swallowing, swollen tonsils that may have white patches, tiny red spots on the area at the back of the roof of the mouth, fever, headache and rash.

Strep throat treatment involves taking antibiotic medicine to clear up the infection caused by bacteria. Pain relievers that can be bought without a prescription can relieve throat pain and fever.