How To Treat Your Child's Sore Throat Or Strep Throat

How do I treat my child's sore throat or strep throat?

The treatment for a sore throat depends on what the cause is. In the majority of cases the cause is viral, so there is no treatment, so it's imperative to keep your child hydrated. Cool things, or alternatively warm liquids, may feel good on their throat, such as popsicles, jello, ice cream and soft foods. If they have nasal congestion, sometimes helping them dry up their nose may help with post nasal drip which irritates the throat. It's really just supportive care, making sure they are peeing, staying hydrated and waiting for it to go away. Viral soar throats can last a couple days to a week. Strep throat needs to be treated with antibiotics. The doctor will tickle the back of their throat with what looks like a long q-tip and with a test will know in about 5 minutes. If they have strep throat, the child will be on antibiotics for about 7-10 days, and will actually feel better in about 24 hours.