Penicillin and Strep: Why the Rebound?
I'm a 23-year-old female without any major health issues, currently taking birth control and 75mg of Effexor. A couple of years back, I experienced recurrent strep throat that resolved on its own. Recently, I noticed the familiar white spots on my tonsils. Recognizing the signs, I visited a doctor who prescribed penicillin. Initially, the medication seemed effective as the spots cleared up. However, I'm now completing my tenth day of the antibiotic treatment, and unfortunately, the white spots and throat discomfort have returned. This has left me feeling anxious because I thought strep was generally treatable with penicillin. I’m looking for suggestions or guidance since I'm currently abroad and won’t be able to consult a doctor for some time. Additionally, I have plans to undergo a tonsillectomy in the future, but I’m waiting for the right moment in my life since I anticipate needing some recovery time, which can be difficult to schedule.
Answers (1)
8/15/2025, 9:41:28 PM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you're facing a frustrating situation with your throat symptoms returning despite completing a course of penicillin. It's understandable to feel anxious about the effectiveness of treatment, especially when you're experiencing discomfort abroad. Let's break this down and consider the steps you can take.
Key Points:
- Recurrent Symptoms Post-Penicillin: It's not uncommon for some infections, including strep throat, to recur or not fully resolve, even after antibiotic treatment.
- Possible Causes: The return of white spots and throat discomfort could stem from various factors, such as antibiotic resistance, incomplete eradication of the bacteria, or another underlying issue.
Explanation:
The throat symptoms you’re experiencing, such as the white spots and discomfort, may not solely indicate an issue with the penicillin treatment. It is possible that:
- The strain of bacteria you're encountering may be resistant to penicillin, making the treatment less effective.
- It’s also possible that there is another infection, or even viral pharyngitis, which can mimic strep throat but won’t respond to antibiotics.
Next Steps:
While consulting a doctor is the best option ultimately, here are some immediate actions you can take while you are abroad:
-
Continue to Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of your symptoms, noting any changes, improvement, or worsening. Look for signs of fever or difficulty swallowing, which may indicate a need for urgent medical attention.
-
Symptomatic Relief: To ease discomfort in the meantime:
- Gargle with warm salt water several times a day. This can help soothe your throat.
- Stay hydrated with plenty of fluids. Consider soft or liquid foods if swallowing is painful.
- Use over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen to manage pain and reduce any fever.
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Consider Possible Allergens or Irritants: Since you are abroad, be cautious of potential allergens or irritants in your environment that could be exacerbating your throat discomfort.
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Prepare for Future Care: Since you’re considering a tonsillectomy, this could be a long-term solution for recurrent strep throat. Research options for when you return home, and plan ahead for recovery time.
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Seek Healthcare If Needed: If symptoms worsen or you develop a fever, difficulty breathing, or other severe symptoms, seek medical care as soon as possible, even if it means visiting a local clinic.
Taking these steps can help you manage your symptoms while you wait for the opportunity to consult a healthcare provider. Remember, you are not alone in this, and it’s okay to seek help when needed. If you have more questions or need further information, feel free to ask!
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