How Do I Know If My Child Has Strep Throat?

Every parent dreads the words: "My throat hurts." Sore throats are incredibly common in kids, but most are caused by viruses and will clear up on their own. Strep throat is different — it's a bacterial infection that needs antibiotics to treat. The tricky part? It doesn't always look the way you'd expect.

Strep vs. Regular Sore Throat: What's the Difference?

Strep throat (caused by Group A Streptococcus bacteria) tends to come on suddenly and without the usual cold symptoms. Here's how it often compares:

• Strep: Sudden sore throat, fever, painful swallowing, swollen lymph nodes, sometimes red spots or white patches in the throat

• Viral sore throat: Gradual onset, usually comes with runny nose, cough, or congestion

Important: you cannot diagnose strep by looking at the throat alone. A rapid strep test at your provider's office is the only reliable way to know for sure.

Symptoms to Watch For

• Sore throat that comes on quickly

• Fever of 101°F or higher

• Painful or difficult swallowing

• Red, swollen tonsils (sometimes with white streaks or patches)

• Swollen, tender lymph nodes in the neck

• Stomachache, headache, or nausea (especially in younger kids)

• A red rash that feels like sandpaper (this may indicate scarlet fever, caused by the same bacteria)

What Happens If Strep Goes Untreated?

Untreated strep can lead to complications including rheumatic fever, which can damage the heart, and kidney problems. This is why it's important not to wait it out if you suspect strep — especially if symptoms are not improving after a couple of days.

Treatment

If the strep test is positive, we'll prescribe a course of antibiotics. It's essential that your child finishes the entire prescription, even if they start feeling better quickly. Your child can return to school or daycare 24 hours after starting antibiotics and once they're fever-free.

Questions about your child's health? Call Burds Family Practice in Peosta at (563) 588-6659 or visit burdsfamilypractice.com to request an appointment. We're here for your family.