Strep throat is a common bacterial infection in children, caused by the Group A Streptococcus bacteria. This infection affects the throat and tonsils, leading to discomfort, pain, and other symptoms. At Intown Pediatric & Adolescent Medicine, we are experienced in diagnosing and treating strep throat in children, ensuring fast relief and preventing potential complications. Serving families throughout Atlanta from our locations in Glenwood Park, Brookhaven, and Decatur, we offer comprehensive care to help your child recover quickly.
Strep Throat Symptoms in Children
Strep throat can cause a variety of symptoms that are often more intense than those of a typical sore throat caused by a virus. It’s important to recognize the signs of strep throat early, as timely treatment can prevent the infection from worsening or spreading. Common symptoms of strep throat in children include:
Sore Throat
Painful throat, especially when swallowing, is one of the hallmark symptoms.
Fever
A high fever (often above 101°F) may accompany the infection.
Red and Swollen Tonsils
The tonsils may appear red, swollen, and have white patches or streaks of pus.
Swollen Lymph Nodes
The lymph nodes in the neck may become tender and swollen.
Headache
Many children with strep throat experience headaches along with throat pain.
Stomach Pain and Nausea
Some children may complain of stomach aches or even experience nausea or vomiting.
Rash
In some cases, children with strep throat develop a red rash known as scarlet fever.
Unlike viral sore throats, strep throat does not usually cause coughing or a runny nose. If your child is showing signs of strep throat, it’s essential to consult your pediatrician for an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan.
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Diagnosis of Strep Throat
Diagnosing strep throat typically involves a physical examination of your child’s throat, as well as diagnostic testing to confirm the presence of the bacteria. At Intown Pediatric & Adolescent Medicine, we offer two reliable testing methods:
Rapid Strep Test
This quick test involves swabbing the back of the throat to check for strep bacteria. Results are typically available within minutes.
Throat Culture
If the rapid test is negative but strep throat is still suspected, a throat culture may be performed. This involves sending a throat swab to a laboratory for more thorough testing, with results typically available in 1-2 days.
Early and accurate diagnosis is key to starting treatment and preventing complications, such as rheumatic fever or kidney inflammation.
Treatment for Strep Throat in Children
Strep throat is treated with antibiotics, as it is a bacterial infection. Prompt treatment not only helps relieve symptoms but also reduces the risk of spreading the infection to others. The main components of treatment include:
Antibiotics
Your pediatrician will prescribe antibiotics to eliminate the strep bacteria. Common antibiotics used to treat strep throat include penicillin or amoxicillin. It’s important to ensure your child completes the full course of antibiotics, even if symptoms improve before the medication is finished.
Pain Relief
Over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help reduce fever and alleviate throat pain. Always follow dosing recommendations based on your child’s age and weight.
Rest and Hydration
Encourage your child to get plenty of rest and drink fluids to stay hydrated. Warm liquids, such as soup or tea, and cold treats like popsicles can also soothe a sore throat.
Most children start to feel better within 24 to 48 hours of starting antibiotics, but it’s important to keep them home from school or daycare for at least 24 hours after starting medication to prevent the spread of the infection.
Preventing Strep Throat
While it can be difficult to prevent strep throat entirely, there are several steps you can take to reduce your child’s risk:
Frequent Handwashing
Encourage your child to wash their hands regularly, especially before eating and after sneezing or coughing.
Avoid Sharing Personal Items
Strep bacteria can spread through saliva, so it’s important not to share utensils, cups, or towels with others.
Good Hygiene
Practices Teach your child to cover their mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing and to avoid touching their face.
Frequently Asked Questions About Strep Throat
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Strep throat is contagious until 24 hours after starting antibiotics. Without treatment, it can remain contagious for up to 2-3 weeks.
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While strep throat may improve without antibiotics, untreated strep can lead to serious complications like rheumatic fever or kidney damage. It’s essential to seek treatment to prevent these risks.
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Strep throat is caused by bacteria, while viral sore throats are caused by viruses. Strep throat is more likely to cause fever, swollen tonsils, and white patches, whereas viral sore throats often include symptoms like coughing or a runny nose.
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If your child has a sore throat with a high fever, swollen glands, or white patches on the tonsils, it’s important to see a pediatrician for testing and treatment.
Schedule an Appointment for Strep Throat Treatment in Atlanta
If your child is showing signs of strep throat, contact Intown Pediatric & Adolescent Medicine at (404) 446-4726 to schedule an appointment. Our experienced pediatricians are here to provide expert care at our convenient locations in Glenwood Park, Brookhaven, and Decatur, serving families across Atlanta.