Pregnancy And Baby Care Toddler Illness Toddler Strep Throat

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Symptoms of strep throat in toddlers

The symptoms for strep throat may vary according to the age of the child. Strep throat in toddlers will show symptoms such as swollen glands beneath the jaws, throat pain, trouble swallowing, no desire to eat, and generally cranky in behavior.

It may include stomach pain, fever and red, swollen tonsils. The bacteria that sets off strep throat is mostly present in the nose and throat, which make activities such as sneezing, coughing, or shaking hands spread the infection. This shows that personal hygiene like washing hands often will go a long way to prevent strep throat in toddlers. See also toddler bronchitis

Reasons for Strep Throat in Toddlers

Sore throat caused by the strep bacteria needs to be treated at the earliest as it can give way to worse conditions like kidney inflammation or rheumatic fever. These conditions can lessen the kidneys ability to function normally. Rheumatic fever can affect the heart and the joints of your toddler. Diagnosis and treatment. The diagnosis of strep throat is conducted by performing a throat culture on the child. It is done by swabbing a long piece of cotton at the back of the throat. It is not painful but may cause the child to gag.

Treatment for Strep Throat in Toddlers

The treatment begins once the tests come back as positive for strep bacteria. The treatment usually involves a course of antibiotics for ten days. Within 24 hours of the first dose the strep throat toddler will find relief and the fever will subside. The toddler will feel fine in two to three days. However, it is important that prescribed medication is taken for the required number of days, otherwise the symptoms might return if the bacteria is still present in the body.

Toddlers with strep throat should be provided with plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration. Warm drinks such as clear soups or broth, hot chocolate, or tea will soothe the child's throat. It is a good idea to avoid orange, lemon or grape juice as they cause irritation in the throat. Ice cubes can be given to suck on. Keep them on bed rest and provide them with interesting activities like reading a book, a favorite video, or toys that can be played with on the bed.

To avoid spreading the infection, keep your toddler's clothes, utensils, and bedding separate.