What are the symptoms of strep throat in toddler?

(June 26, 2010)

Strep Throat In Toddlers

It is sometimes difficult to identify the symptoms of strep throat in toddlers than in older kids. Toddlers are generally not able to describe what they are feeling and it is difficult for parents to guess. These are some of the most common symptoms of strep throat. We suggest that you take your child to the doctor, if you notice any of the symptoms.

Sore throat is one of the most common symptoms. Since a small kid cannot explain what he is feeling, watch out for signs like difficulty in drinking water or not able to eat and swallow properly. Swollen lymph glands or nodes can be another symptom of strep throat. These lymph nodes are below the jaw line.

Fever is another symptom of strep throat. A toddler may run a low-grade fever, while older kids can have higher fever. A cough, clear nasal drip and congestion are some of the other symptoms to look out for. Your toddler may even develop an infection in the place between the lips and nostrils. When a toddler is ill, he can be irritable, and this is another giveaway sign of strep throat.

When to see a doctor: If you think that your child has strep throat, then it is advisable to make an appointment with your doctor. Caused by bacteria, strep throat is curable with antibiotics. It is better to take your toddler to a doctor instead of waiting for more time because strep throat is painful and if it isn’t cured immediately, it can cause other problems like scarlet fever or a throat abscess.

A doctor may take a throat culture to check if your child really has strep. This test is painless and easy. The child is asked to open his mouth and the doctor swabs the throat, and it’s over. A rapid antigen test is ordered to detect the bacteria in minutes.

Treatment: The physician can prescribe an antibiotic medicine. Do make sure that your child takes the full dosage of the medicine. It isn’t a good idea to stop the medicine for a few days because that gives the bacteria a chance to develop more resistance and cause worse infection.

Making your child feel better: You can give your child medicines for pain relief. Do remember, not to give your child aspirin.

Note: Do remember that Strep is very contagious and can be transmitted through airborne droplets.

Submitted by P T on June 26, 2010 at 04:46