Sore Throat

What causes a sore throat?

A sore throat is usually the result of a viral infection, like a common cold or influenza. Children can also develop a sore throat due to postnasal drip associated with allergies.

A sore throat may also be the result of an infection with a bacteria called Streptococcus pyogenes or group A Streptococcus (GAS).

What are the symptoms of a sore throat?

Children with sore throats experience difficulty and pain when swallowing fluids or food. They may also have swelling in the glands of the neck and their tonsils may become red and inflamed.

In strep throat, noticeable white patches may also appear on the back of the throat and your child’s voice may sound hoarse.

Strep throat infections can also cause symptoms like:

• Fever
• Cough
• Headaches
• Body aches

If a sore throat is accompanied by a high fever or if your child isn’t able to eat or drink anything because of severe pain, schedule a diagnostic evaluation at Katy Pediatric Associates as soon as possible.

How is a sore throat diagnosed?

The Katy Pediatric Associates team offers comprehensive physical exams to assess inflammation in the throat and other symptoms.

To determine if your child’s throat pain is the result of strep throat, the pediatricians rely on in-office strep tests. This test involves a painless swab of the back of the throat to collect cell samples to identify the presence of infection.

Your pediatrician also evaluates other symptoms that are common with a sore throat and a strep infection to ensure they aren’t caused by another underlying health condition.

What treatments are available for a sore throat?

If your child’s sore throat is due to the common cold or influenza virus, your Katy Pediatric Associates provider can recommend home remedies to help them feel better. These remedies may include salt water rinses, over-the-counter pain relievers, and the use of throat lozenges. Hot tea with honey is also an option for soothing a sore throat.

When your child has an infection, like strep throat, your provider can prescribe a course of antibiotics to clear the infection. It’s important that your child takes all of the recommended medication or the infection can return.

Additionally, keeping a cool-mist humidifier in your child’s room while they sleep can prevent irritation and dryness in the throat, so they can get a good night’s sleep.

If your child complains of a sore throat, schedule a sick visit at Katy Pediatric Associates today by requesting an appointment online or by calling the office.