If your child wakes up one morning and feels their throat is dry, and itchy, causing pain on swallowing, and they are otherwise well, it is most likely just a sore throat.A sore throat can be caused by allergens, like pollen or dust, or even some foods. If it is accompanied by other symptoms such as a fever, runny nose or cough, it may then be caused by a viral or bacterial infection.
Sore Throat Symptoms Include
- A swollen, scratchy throat and tonsils
- Moderate fever
- Earache
- Lump on the neck (caused by swollen glands)
- Runny nose
- Cough or common cold
- Congestion
Strep Throat Symptoms
Strep throat is a bacterial throat infection, specifically caused by Streptococcus pyogenes or Group A Strep. Its symptoms are very similar to that of a regular sore throat, but are usually more severe.Additional symptoms of Strep throat are:
- An isolated symptom of significant sore throat in the absence of other cold-like symptoms of a runny nose or nasal congestion.
- Swollen lymph nodes in the neck
- Red and swollen tonsils, sometimes accompanied by white patches or streaks
- Tiny red spots on the roof (palate) or back of the mouth
- Difficulty swallowing or breathing
- Headaches
- Nausea or vomiting
- A rash which is described as having a sand-paper feel: this appears over the chest, back, face and upper part of arms and legs. It is red, rough and raised and may or may not be itchy.
- Rheumatic fever: this is a complication of prolonged and untreated Strep throat.
How can you help your child when they have Strep throat?
Call your PaediatricianYour paediatrician will examine your child and they can run a simple and quick Rapid swab test to confirm Strep throat. Your child will then need to have antibiotics to treat this, as it is a bacterial infection, and to prevent further complications. Anti-fever medications, which also work as pain-relievers will be prescribed to manage your child’s fever and keep them comfortable as they recover. It is extremely important to diagnose Strep throat as early as possible to help with a speedy recovery and avoid it spreading to other members of the household.