Strep throat is common among school-age kids. Although a sore throat is a common symptom of the condition, not all cases of it are due to strep.
What causes strep throat in kids?
Strep throat is caused by the streptococcus bacteria (hence the name). It is contagious and can be spread to others through droplets.
When an infected child coughs, sneezes, or talks, the bacteria can be breathed in or caught by others through touching contaminated objects or surfaces.
What are the symptoms of strep throat?
A child with strep throat may manifest the following symptoms:
- Difficulty or pain in swallowing
- Bright red, swollen tonsils
- Fever
- Tender glands in the neck
- Irritability
- Sleeping more than the usual
- Tiny red spots at the back throat of the mouth
- Poor appetite
- A red rash on the body that feels like sandpaper
How is strep throat treated?
Once confirmed, a child with strep throat will be prescribed with antibiotics. This should be taken as instructed to avoid other problems.
Usually, after a day or two of antibiotic therapy, your child will start feeling better.
Aside from antibiotics, there are other solutions that can help your kid to feel better. This includes acetaminophen for the fever and throat pain, plenty of fluids, and soft foods that are easy to swallow.
It isn’t easy seeing your kid suffer from strep throat. If you suspect your child has it, see a specialist immediately. Strep throat can cause complications when left untreated.
Greater Knoxville ENT has a team of specialists who are well-experienced in assessing, diagnosing, and treating conditions of the ears, nose, and throat. Call us at (865) 244-4396 to request for an appointment.