OpenHealth Q&A

Managing Recurring Strep Throat with Allergies and Family Concerns During Breastfeeding

**Demographic Information:** - **Age**: 38 - **Gender**: Female - **Height**: 5’2” - **Weight**: 125 lbs - **Ethnicity**: White/Non-Hispanic - **Duration of Symptoms**: Recurrent for over 20 days - **Location**: United States - **Other Health Concerns**: Currently breastfeeding - **Medications**: None at present I am a breastfeeding mother with a three-month-old infant. Approximately two months into my pregnancy, I contracted strep throat, although the source of infection remains unclear. I was treated with amoxicillin but developed a severe itching rash on my hands and feet after eight days of medication, though the rash on my feet was not visible. I completed the antibiotic regimen despite this reaction. Interestingly, my husband and our seven-year-old son did not exhibit any symptoms of strep throat during that time. Fast forward to November 24, when my husband experienced an extremely sore throat accompanied by a debilitating headache that made him vomit. By November 26, he tested positive for strep throat and was prescribed a Z-pack, which he finished. The following day, I began experiencing a sore throat that worsened rapidly overnight. After visiting the doctor, I too tested positive for strep and was prescribed Cephalexin that day. Due to my focus on my baby, I inadvertently skipped a few doses throughout the treatment period, taking approximately 12 days to finish the antibiotics instead of the usual course. Fortunately, neither of our children contracted the infection during this time. However, about 5-6 days post-treatment, I started to feel the same symptoms I had experienced on November 27, culminating in difficulty swallowing. I utilized a COVID/Flu test last night, and the results were negative. Today, I plan to visit a CVS MinuteClinic for a rapid strep test. Should I test positive again, I need guidance on what antibiotic I can safely take while breastfeeding. I have a mild allergy to penicillin but tolerate Cephalexin without issues, having just recently completed that course. I am apprehensive about trying Clindamycin, given my long history of gastrointestinal sensitivities and food intolerances. Managing my health is critical, especially with a young infant in tow, and I also wish to prevent any potential complications for my husband and older son. In addition, if my test returns positive, should my husband and older son be tested as well? I would appreciate any advice on how to break this cycle of repeat infections. We even replaced toothbrushes and toothpaste shortly after starting antibiotics last time. Thank you very much for your assistance!

Answers (1)

12/16/2025, 4:50:48 PM

OpenHealth AI

Thank you for sharing your detailed situation. It sounds like you're going through a challenging time with recurring strep throat, especially while managing your responsibilities as a breastfeeding mother.

Main Points:

1. Recurring Strep Throat: This can happen, especially if there are lingering bacteria or a close contact in your home environment.
2. Medication Concerns: Given your antibiotic history, it's important to find a safe treatment option while breastfeeding.
3. Testing and Preventive Measures: Your family members should be tested if you test positive again.

Explanation:

Strep throat is caused by bacteria, specifically Streptococcus pyogenes. Even after treatment with antibiotics, some individuals can have recurrent infections, especially if they are in close contact with someone who is contagious. Your history of antibiotic treatment and your allergy to penicillin complicate the situation, but it's reassuring that you've tolerated cephalexin in the past.

Breastfeeding requires careful consideration of medications, so it’s good that you’re mindful of safe options for you and your infant. Clindamycin is another alternative to treat strep throat, but gastrointestinal sensitivities can be a concern.

Next Steps:

1. Testing: Go ahead with your rapid strep test at the CVS MinuteClinic. If positive, inform the provider about your penicillin allergy and previous sensitivity to clindamycin.
2. Antibiotic Options: If you test positive, cephalexin can often be used again if you've tolerated it, or alternatives like azithromycin might be considered based on your doctor's assessment. Discuss these options with your healthcare provider.
3. Testing Family Members: It’s advisable for your husband and older son to be tested, especially considering that your husband had symptoms linked to strep throat before. This will help prevent potential reinfection.
4. Preventive Measures:
   • Oral Hygiene: Continue replacing toothbrushes and ensure your family practices good oral hygiene.
   • Disinfect Shared Items: Regularly clean surfaces and items that might transmit bacteria (utensils, cups, etc.).
   • Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of any recurring symptoms in your family, and address them promptly.

Final Thoughts:

Your health and your baby's health are paramount, and taking these steps can help mitigate the risk of further infections. Remember, infections can sometimes require multiple approaches, so maintaining clear communication with your healthcare provider is key. If you have further concerns or questions, don’t hesitate to reach out for support. You’re doing a great job managing a tough situation!