Strep throat is a specific kind of throat infection that commonly affects children more than adults.
Of course, a doctor may be needed to determine if your child really has strep throat. To schedule an appointment in the Falls Church, VA, area call Dr. Maria Sacoto at Sacoto Pediatrics P.C. Getting access to a doctor early will ensure the best treatment possible and prevent the infection from spreading. With that said, here are some important things to know if you think your child has strep.
Diagnosing Strep Throat
Strep throat is caused by a bacteria infection known as Group A Streptococcus. Diagnosing strep throat can be done easily by your pediatrician with a throat swab. This swab will be tested for the bacteria that cause strep. If positive, your child's doctor may prescribe antibiotics to treat it.
If you noticed any of these symptoms in your child, it may be a sign they have strep throat:
- Difficulty Swallowing
- High Fever
- Headache or nausea
- Sore throat
- Swollen Neck Nodes
Not all sore throats are strep, and strep usually is not associated with a runny nose or cough. Knowing these symptoms can help diagnose the problem, but care really comes from a combination of your Falls Church pediatrician and your effort at home.
How to Care for Your Child's Strep Throat
To care for your child's strep throat call your local pediatrician to fully diagnose the problem and look for any other symptoms. The main treatment doctors use for strep throat is antibiotics. Your child should take the pills as your doctor recommends. They will fight off the infection and prevent it from returning while the body is recovering. Your child should also get lots of rest and fluids. Finally, keep them home from school to prevent infection. Your child should recover in no time when all the proper precautions are taken.
If you think your child has strep throat call Dr. Sacoto at (703) 820-1951. Sacoto Pediatrics serves children with the utmost care and compassion. Visit us in Falls Church, VA, to help cure your child.