Sore Throat

When your child has a sore throat, it could be nothing to worry about, or it may be something more serious. The team at Galaxy Pediatrics, which has locations in Red Oak and Plano, Texas, can help determine what's causing your child's sore throat and recommend an appropriate course of treatment. To rule out strep throat and treat your child’s discomfort, call the office or schedule an appointment online today.

What is a sore throat?

A sore throat refers to any discomfort of the back of the mouth or throat, including irritation, scratchiness, or general pain with swallowing.

Along with a sore throat, your child may have: 

• Hoarseness
• Difficulty swallowing
• Red and swollen tonsils
• Swollen and painful glands around their jaw or neck
• Pus or white patches on their tonsils

A sore throat can make speaking or eating difficult and could be quite uncomfortable for your infant or child. 

What causes a sore throat?

Sore throats are very common in children and have many potential causes. The team at Galaxy Pediatrics helps determine what may be causing your child’s sore throat and any other concerning symptoms, and rules out potentially serious causes. 

Some underlying causes for your child’s sore throat include: 

• Common cold 
• Flu virus
• Chickenpox
• Measles
• Croup 
• Mononucleosis, also called Mono 
• Strep throat, a bacterial infection
• Allergies
• Air pollutants 
• Dry air
• Pre-existing illnesses and conditions
• Gastric reflux
• Overuse of their voice

Your child may be at higher risk of having a sore throat if they’re exposed to second-hand smoke, have been exposed to strep throat or other illnesses, or they have seasonal allergies. 

When should my child see a doctor for a sore throat?

If your child has a history of strep throat, it may be necessary for them to see the team at Galaxy Pediatrics as soon as they have throat pain. You may also need to make an appointment if they have other symptoms, including: 

• Rash
• Lumps in the neck or behind the ear
• Fever exceeding 101℉
• Sore throat for more than a week
• Worsening sore throat
• Hoarseness that lasts more than two weeks 
• Difficulty swallowing or eating
• Difficulty opening their mouth
• Trouble breathing
• Ear pain

If your child has a sore throat, whether they have a history of strep throat or not, your child's Galaxy Pediatrics provider can perform a rapid strep test that quickly determines if your child has the streptococcal bacteria. If the test is positive, it means their symptoms are contagious, and they need to begin treatment.  

If your child's experiencing a sore throat, call Galaxy Pediatrics or request an appointment online today.