Strep throat is a common bacterial infection that affects millions of people each year, particularly children and young adults. In fact, an estimated 5.2 million people in the U.S. contract strep throat annually (reported by the CDC). While most cases are easily treated with antibiotics, some individuals experience recurring strep throat infections that disrupt their daily lives. If you or your child suffer from frequent bouts of strep throat, it may be time to consider a long-term solution: tonsillectomy.

At Iowa City ASC, our skilled surgeons specialize in outpatient tonsil removal procedures, offering lasting relief for those struggling with chronic strep throat. If you’re experiencing repeated infections, talk to your healthcare provider about a referral to Iowa City ASC to explore your options.

What is Strep Throat?

Strep throat is caused by the Streptococcus pyogenes bacteria and is characterized by symptoms such as:

• Severe sore throat that develops suddenly
• Painful swallowing
• Red, swollen tonsils, sometimes with white patches
• Fever, headache, and body aches
• Swollen lymph nodes in the neck
• Nausea or vomiting, particularly in children

Unlike viral sore throats, strep throat does not typically cause coughing. Diagnosis is confirmed through a rapid strep test or throat culture, and treatment usually involves antibiotics. However, when left untreated, strep throat can lead to serious complications, including rheumatic fever, kidney inflammation, and post-streptococcal reactive arthritis, all of which can have long-term health consequences.

When Does Strep Throat Become a Chronic Problem?

For some individuals, strep throat isn’t just an occasional illness—it becomes a persistent issue. You may have chronic strep throat if:

• You experience three or more infections per year despite receiving treatment.
• Your symptoms return quickly after finishing antibiotics.
• You frequently miss work, school, or activities due to repeated illness.
• You develop complications such as swollen tonsils that make breathing or swallowing difficult.
• You have tonsillar abscesses (pockets of pus around the tonsils) that require drainage.

If chronic strep throat is interfering with your quality of life, removing the tonsils may be an effective way to reduce the frequency and severity of infections.

The Benefits of Tonsil Removal (Tonsillectomy)

Tonsillectomy is a surgical procedure to remove the tonsils, which are often a breeding ground for recurrent infections. This procedure can provide significant benefits for those with chronic strep throat, including:

• Up to a 50% reduction in throat infections in the first year after surgery
• Fewer doctor visits and antibiotic prescriptions
• Less missed work or school due to illness
• Relief from chronic sore throats and discomfort
• Lower risk of complications such as abscesses or airway obstruction

At Iowa City ASC, our expert surgeons perform tonsillectomies using advanced, minimally invasive techniques to ensure a smooth recovery. The procedure is typically done on an outpatient basis, meaning you can return home the same day to rest and recover.

Request a Referral to Iowa City ASC

If chronic strep throat is negatively impacting your health and well-being, it may be time to explore a long-term solution. Research shows that children and adults who undergo a tonsillectomy for chronic strep throat experience fewer infections and an improved quality of life.

Iowa City ASC is home to skilled surgeons who specialize in tonsillectomy, helping patients find lasting relief from persistent throat infections. Talk to your primary care provider or ENT specialist about whether tonsil removal is right for you. If so, request a referral to Iowa City ASC and take the next step toward a healthier, infection-free future.

For more information on our outpatient procedures and expert surgical care, contact us today.