How long strep throat hangs around depends on whether it is treated with antibiotics. That is why it is important to see a doctor for a proper diagnosis and treatment.
Antibiotics prescribed to treat strep throat are typically penicillin, amoxicillin, or clindamycin. Once antibiotics are prescribed, most people feel relief within 24 hours. The sore throat and other symptoms generally improve over the next two to three days.5 After 24 hours of antibiotic treatment and 24 hours of being fever free without use of fever reducing medication, you are no longer contagious, but it is crucial to complete the full course of antibiotics to prevent a recurrence or any health complications.
Untreated strep throat can last up to 10 days. During this time, a person remains contagious, which means they can spread the infection to others. Untreated strep can also lead to serious complications, including rheumatic fever, kidney issues, or sinus infections, which may prolong the overall illness.6
Not completing the prescribed course of antibiotics can predispose a person to persistent strep throat. The bacteria may also become resistant to the antibiotic that is not completed, adding to the chances of developing antibiotic-resistant strep infection.6
Home remedies such as ice packs or eating soft foods can make a strep throat sufferer more comfortable, but they cannot cure the infection. They are short-term solutions and do not provide lasting relief or curative measures for the infection.