Sore Throats
Sore throats (pharyngitis) are a very common complaint in childhood. They are almost never an emergency.
About 90% are due to viruses and only about 10% are due to the strep bacteria. If your child has a bad
cold with a runny nose, it is usual to get a sore throat from post-nasal drip. Viral infections can mimic
strep throat in every way. Viruses generally last 3-5 days and are very uncomfortable. They do not respond
to antibiotics. With the exception of laryngitis and croup, which we can diagnose from the symptoms and are
almost always viral, a throat swab for a rapid test or culture is the ONLY way to distinguish between the
two. It is not appropriate to give antibiotics without this test.
Treat your child's sore throat with fluids, rest and acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil).
He needs to be seen in the office if he is very sick with a fever and very red, sore throat, or if he is
not feeling better in 24-48 hours. Strep throat infections require antibiotics to prevent rare complications.
Penicillin or amoxicillin are the first choice of antibiotics for this infection. Your child is no longer
contagious 24 hours after starting the antibiotic. He may return to school and activities when the fever is
gone, and he feels better, usually within 48 hours.
Call Our Office Immediately If:
- Your child is drooling or is having great difficulty swallowing
- Your child is acting very sick
Call Us During Regular Office Hours If:
- The fever lasts for more than 3 days
- Your child has had a sore throat for more than 24 hours
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