Sore Throat: Brief Version

What is a sore throat?

Viruses that cause colds cause most sore throats. Strep bacteria causes some sore throats. Your doctor may take a throat culture to find out if the sore throat is caused by a virus or strep.

Your older child can tell you if he has a sore throat. A younger child may have a sore throat if he cries when he eats. Or your child may not eat. Your child's tonsils may also be red and swollen.

How can I take care of my child?

• Help the throat feel better.

  If your child is over age 1, give warm chicken broth or apple juice.

  Children over age 6 can suck on hard candy or lollipops to make the throat feel better. Children over age 8 can also gargle with warm salt water (1/4 teaspoon of salt per glass).

• Give a soft diet.

  If your child has a sore throat, some foods can be hard to swallow. Cold drinks and milkshakes are good. Do not give your child salty or spicy foods or citrus fruits.

• Give pain medicine.

  Give your child acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil) for the sore throat or for a fever. No aspirin.

Call your doctor right away if:

• Your child drools or has a hard time swallowing.
• It is hard for your child to breathe.
• Your child acts very sick.

Call your child's doctor during office hours if:

• Your child has a sore throat for more than 48 hours.
• Your child has a fever and no other cold symptoms.
• You think your child may need a Strep test.