Richard Byrd, M.D. Kelsey-Seybold Clinic's Chief of Pediatrics.
By Richard Byrd, M.D., F.A.A.P
Chief, Kelsey-Seybold Clinic Department of Pediatrics
Most of the time, a child’s sore throat is the result from a common cold. This is especially true if a runny nose, cough and hoarseness accompany the throat pain. However, it’s a good idea to call a doctor if:
Your child has symptoms that signal a bacterial infection – such as a high fever, throat redness, extreme fatigue or difficulty swallowing.
Your child is 5 years or younger and has a very sore throat lasting longer than a few hours.
Rare causes of children’s sore throats include an infection called epiglottitis and infectious mononucleosis.
Will an antibiotic help?
Contrary to popular opinion, antibiotics do not cure colds and other viruses. Even worse, these drugs can be dangerous when unneeded. But about one-third of children’s sore throats stem from a streptococcal bacterial infection, or strep throat. This infection usually attacks from late fall to early spring. Unlike a sore throat caused by a cold, a strep throat requires antibiotics to prevent rheumatic fever and other complications.
The antibiotic treatment for strep should kill the germs and offer symptomatic relief within 36 to 48 hours. To avoid complications, make sure your child completes the full course of treatment.
Self-care solutions
While waiting for the end of a cold or for antibiotic treatment to take effect, how can you help ease your youngster’s throat pain? Here are some tips:
Have your child rest in a humidified room.
Give your child plenty of fluids.
Have your child gargle with a warm saltwater solution of one-fourth teaspoon salt to one-half cup warm water.
Your child’s doctor may also recommend a mild pain reliever, such as acetaminophen.