• 1 week ago

Sore Throat and Fever in Children

Why Do Sore Throat and Fever Often Occur Together?

Sore throat and fever often appear together in children as initial signs of upper respiratory infections. Infections in the throat trigger an immune response that leads to fever. These symptoms are usually caused by viruses, but sometimes they result from bacterial infections—especially in children over age 5.

Identifying the cause is important. If the infection is viral, antibiotics won’t help and may even be harmful. If it’s bacterial, timely antibiotic treatment can prevent complications. This makes clinical assessment and accurate diagnosis essential.

Common Causes of Sore Throat and Fever

Viral Infections

The most common cause of sore throat and fever in children. Viruses like adenovirus, enterovirus, influenza, and RSV are frequent culprits.

  • Often accompanied by runny nose, cough, red eyes, and hoarseness
  • Fever may be mild to moderate
  • Symptoms usually resolve within a few days
  • Antibiotics are not needed

Streptococcal Pharyngitis (Strep Throat)

Caused by Group A Streptococcus (GAS), this bacterial infection typically affects children over 5 years.

  • Sudden severe sore throat, pain with swallowing
  • High fever, swollen neck glands
  • White spots or streaks (exudates) on the tonsils
  • No cough or runny nose, which differentiates it from viral causes
  • If left untreated, it may lead to scarlet fever, rheumatic fever, or kidney inflammation

Diagnostic Tools

  • Physical examination: Looks for redness, swelling, pus on tonsils, and lymph node tenderness
  • Rapid Strep Test: Results in 5–10 minutes; detects GAS antigens
  • Throat Culture: Confirms diagnosis in 24–48 hours
  • Blood Tests (if needed): To assess severity or rule out other causes

Treatment Approach

Viral Infections:

  • No antibiotics
  • Pain relievers (paracetamol or ibuprofen)
  • Warm liquids, soft foods, throat-soothing teas
  • Humidifier use for dry throat relief
  • Rest and hydration

Streptococcal Infections:

  • Requires antibiotic treatment, typically for 10 days
  • Penicillin or amoxicillin is first-line; alternatives used for allergies
  • Antibiotics reduce symptom duration and risk of complications
  • Child is no longer contagious after 24 hours of starting antibiotics

Completing the full antibiotic course is essential—even if your child feels better earlier.

Home Care Tips

  • Offer plenty of fluids (warm water, herbal teas, broths)
  • Use age-appropriate pain medication for fever or throat pain
  • Avoid acidic, spicy, or scratchy foods
  • Allow your child to rest in a calm, comfortable space
  • Practice good hand hygiene and avoid sharing utensils

When to Call the Doctor

  • Fever above 38.5°C (101.3°F) lasting more than 3 days
  • Child refuses to eat or drink
  • Difficulty swallowing or drooling
  • Visible white patches on the throat or tonsils
  • No improvement after 2–3 days of home care
  • Recurring sore throats within a short period

Follow-Up Care with Dr. Ekin Pasinlioğlu

  • In-depth evaluation of sore throat and associated symptoms
  • On-site rapid strep testing and throat culture when needed
  • Decision-making on antibiotic use based on test results
  • Monitoring for complications in recurrent or severe infections
  • School/daycare return planning and preventive advice