The infection of the throat usually also involves the tonsils.
Children less than 2 years of age usually can't complain about a sore throat. A young child who does not want favorite foods may have a sore throat. They may also start to cry during feedings.
Cause
Usually caused by an infection of the throat (pharyngitis). Since the tonsils are in that area, they are usually also infected (tonsillitis).
Colds (URIs).
Most sore throats are part of a cold. In fact, a sore throat may be the only symptom for the first 24 hours.
Influenza.
A sore throat can be the first symptom in flu infections.
Viral pharyngitis.
Some viruses cause a sore throat without any nasal symptoms.
Prevention of Spread to Others
Good hand washing can prevent spread of infection.
After Care Advice
Overview:
Most sore throats are just part of a cold and caused by a virus.
A cough, hoarse voice or nasal discharge points to a cold as the cause
If a sore throat is the only symptom, it's still usually viral. A fever may also be present.
Viral throat infections can be treated at home.
Here is some care advice that should help.
Sore Throat Pain Relief:
Age over 1 year. Can sip warm fluids such as chicken broth or apple juice. Some children prefer cold foods such as popsicles or ice cream.
Age over 6 years. Can also suck on hard candy or lollipops. Butterscotch seems to help.
Age over 8 years. Can also gargle. Use warm water with a little table salt added. A liquid antacid can be added instead of salt. Use Mylanta or the store brand. No prescription is needed.
Medicated throat sprays or lozenges are generally not helpful.
Pain Medicine:
To help with the pain, give acetaminophen (such as Tylenol) or ibuprofen. Use as needed.
Fever:
For fevers above 102° F (39° C), give acetaminophen (such as Tylenol) or ibuprofen. Note: Lower fevers are important for fighting infections.
For ALL fevers: Keep your child well hydrated. Give lots of cold fluids.
Antibiotics Not Needed:
Antibiotics are not helpful for viral infections.
They can only kill bacteria.
Fluids and Soft Diet:
Try to get your child to drink adequate fluids.
Goal: Keep your child well hydrated.
Cold drinks, milk shakes, popsicles, slushes, and sherbet are good choices.
Solids.
Offer a soft diet. Also avoid foods that need much chewing. Avoid citrus, salty, or spicy foods. Note: Fluid intake is much more important than eating any solids.
Swollen tonsils can make some solid foods hard to swallow. Cut food into smaller pieces.
What to Expect:
Most often, sore throats with a viral illness last 4 or 5 days.
Other cold symptoms may last longer.
Return to School:
Your child can return to school after the fever is gone.
Your child should feel well enough to join in normal activities.
Author:Barton Schmitt MD, FAAP Copyright
Disclaimer:This health information is for educational purposes only. You the reader assume full responsibility for how you choose to use it.
