Throat Infection in a Child
A strep infection is always the main concern when a child has a sore throat, though most sore throats are causes by viral infections. Have your child looked at by a physician if strep is a concern. Untreated strep can lead to rheumatic fever. Strep requires that an antibiotic be prescribed, while natural remedies can help ease the discomfort of viral throat infections.
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Throat Care
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Pain relievers will help ease the discomfort of a basic sore throat after a strep infection has been ruled out. They will also help if your child is running a fever. Make sure to offer him plenty of fluids to drink throughout the day. Older children may find relief though the use of throat sprays or throat lozenges. Gargling with warm salt water will help heal the affected tissues and ease sore throat pain. Salt also breaks down the mucus so the tonsils can heal.
Viral Infection
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Antibiotics won't work on a viral infection. The virus has to run its course before your child will feel better. Keep him as comfortable as possible. Decongestants will help stem the runny nose that often causes a viral sore throat. A humidifier will moisten the air and will ease the irritation of tissues caused by a dry throat.
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Natural Remedies
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While strep requires an antibiotic regimen for proper treatment, some natural remedies will help aid the healing process. Garlic, honey and tea tree oil all have antibacterial tendencies. A bit of honey added to a warm cup of peppermint or chamomile tea will ease throat pain while providing comfort for a tender stomach. The best natural cure is prevention. Wash your hands often and make sure you use a tissue when helping your child blow her nose. Clean and sanitize all surfaces that come in contact with a sick family member.
Strep Throat
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If your child is suffering from a fever and swollen red tonsils with visible white mucus, he should be seen by his physician for a strep test. The nurse or physician will use a throat swab and will collect a sample by swiping it across the infected area. If the test results are positive for strep, the physician will prescribe an antibiotic. The child will be contagious for about 24 hours after taking the first dose and should rest for a few days before returning to school.
Warning
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Make sure your child finishes the entire container of any medication as prescribed. Many children balk at taking medicine and will try to avoid finishing the recommended dosage as soon as they feel better. In most cases, the infection is still present even though the symptoms are gone. If he stops taking the medication too soon, the bacteria will multiply and the infection will reoccur. The reoccurring bacteria can become resistant to the original treatment and the infection will be harder to treat the second time around.
Anytime your child spikes a high fever or experiences difficulty in breathing, he should be seen by a physician immediately.
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