It is often difficult for parents to tell the difference between a sore throat caused by a viral infection, which usually does not require an antibiotic, or streptococcus.  However, knowing the difference is important.  If strep is left untreated, it may lead to more serious illnesses which can affect the heart and kidneys.

Symptoms of strep throat can vary from child to child.  Signs that your child may have strep include:

• A sore throat that is swollen, red or has white speckles
• Fever
• Headache
• Runny nose
• Poor appetite
• Stomach pain
• Vomiting
• Severe tiredness

A child with any of these symptoms should see his or her pediatrician promptly.  Upon a confirmed diagnosis by a throat culture or rapid strep test, the physician will prescribe an antibiotic to cure the infection.

Although your child will begin to feel better within a few days, it is important to complete the entire prescription and not miss any doses or the infection could flare up again.  Your child is no longer contagious after taking the antibiotic for 24 hours and may return to school if she feels better and does not have a fever.

In addition to taking an antibiotic, there are several other treatments that can be used to relieve the pain and discomfort that accompanies strep throat:

• Pain relief - To ease throat pain, children one year and older should sip warm chicken broth or apple juice.  Children four years and older can suck on hard candies or lollipops. 
• Fever - Acetaminophen or ibuprofen can be administered for throat pain or fever over 102°F. 
• Diet - Children with strep usually have swollen tonsils making it painful to swallow some foods.  Try liquids such as soups or soft foods such as applesauce or Cream of Wheat until the pain subsides.

Because strep throat is highly contagious, other members of the family may become sick as well.  If any child or adult comes down with a fever, sore throat, or runny nose, or has been vomiting or experiences a lack of appetite, he or she should see a physician for a throat culture.

If your child’s fever continues longer than 48 hours after beginning an antibiotic or if you have any concerns, contact his or her pediatrician during office hours.  However, if your child begins to drool, has problems swallowing, or acts very sick you should call a physician immediately.

For more information on childhood illnesses and other pediatric issues, log on to www.boystownpediatrics.org.