What happens if strep throat is not treated?
Most people will get well without treatment. However, a small percentage of untreated people develop complications such as scarlet fever and rheumatic fever. Those who develop scarlet fever have a rash that lasts over a week. As the rash fades, the skin peels. Scarlet fever is treated with the same antibiotic used for strep throat. If scarlet fever is not treated, rheumatic fever may develop about 20 days later. Rheumatic fever may affect the heart, joints, skin and brain. Damage to the heart may be long term and very serious.
