This article discusses strep throat in children, highlighting symptoms like sore throat, fever, and vomiting, and explaining the importance of testing and timely treatment. It also addresses common concerns about distinguishing strep from viral infections and emphasizes the need for parental awareness.
Most of us are familiar with the discomfort of a sore throat and fever, common signs of a strep infection that usually prompt a visit to the doctor for testing and potential antibiotic treatment. However, many parents are unaware that vomiting, when accompanied by a sore throat, can also be a sign of strep in children, though it's less common in adults. Strep throat is a bacterial infection caused by Streptococcus pyogenes, also known as group A streptococcus.
Its symptoms often mimic those of viral infections, making it crucial for doctors to run tests before prescribing antibiotics. Strep infections are more prevalent in children than in adults. Symptoms can include a sore throat that may involve red dots on the back of the throat, swollen tonsils, or white patches on the back of the mouth. Doctors note that the pain associated with strep throat tends to develop quickly, and children might complain about difficulty swallowing. Since these symptoms are common in various viral illnesses, a doctor will likely conduct a test if they suspect strep. Interestingly, physicians often don't test children under age 3 for strep because it's uncommon for them to contract this infection and they're less likely to experience complications.Symptoms in this age group are more likely due to a viral infection, but your healthcare provider will determine if testing is necessary. When symptoms overlap with common viral illnesses that don't require antibiotics, how can parents know when to seek medical attention for their child? Most sore throats are not strep, and most vomiting isn't caused by strep. However, these two symptoms together might indicate a strep infection. Some pediatricians can often identify a strep infection simply by observing a child's facial expression, describing it as a “strep face” with pale and droopy features. Remember, if your child has a very high fever or a fever that persists for five days, contact your pediatrician. If your child experiences difficulty breathing, seek immediate medical attention. Helpful resources like day care centers and schools now often notify parents via email when a child in their class tests positive for strep, allowing parents of potentially exposed children to monitor for symptoms.
STREP THROAT CHILDREN SYMPTOMS ANTIBIOTICS VOMITING SOAR THROAT DOCTOR VISIT PEDIATRICIAN TESTING VIRAL INFECTIONS
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