Strep Throat

Let’s talk about strep throat - honestly it is the positive most parents hope for! In a world full of viral infections and “waiting it out”, strep can be a nice surprise when you get the right care, quickly! Strep is the cause of a sore throat about 40% of the time and therefore it is important to always check for strep if your child complains. Strep is a bacterial infection in the throat caused by Group A Strep that requires an antibiotic to treat. Strep is most common in elementary school aged children and can be spread from an infected child sneezing and coughing or you child touching a contaminated surface. 

When a child has Strep their throat is typically sore and red, they will run fever and their tongue can look coated white or pale grey. Often with strep your child will complain of a headache and fatigue. Kiddos often say “my neck hurts” or have swollen lymph nodes in their neck. They can also throw you for a loop and your child can be experiencing fever, vomiting and abdominal pain - never saying their throat is sore.  

After starting antibiotics your child usually feels better in 24 - 36 hours. Did you know it is important to change your child’s toothbrush after 48 hours on antibiotics and make sure you wash their favorite cup really well?

If you have more questions let’s set up a phone call or a home visit - no more urgent care waiting rooms! Sit at home in your comfy clothes, turn on a movie and snuggle you sick little one. We will be your Saving Grace.