A Few Signs That A Sore Throat Should Be Seen By A Pediatrician
If you have a child, you can expect them to become ill numerous times throughout the year. While most illnesses are caused by viruses that will pass on their own, you will need to seek out some pediatric care at times. This is true for certain types of sore throats, so learn about the types of things you may see when your child has a sore throat that should alert you to seek out assistance from the pediatrician.
Your Child Is Drooling
Some children will drool in their sleep, especially if they are younger than five, but the drool should not leave a puddle on your child's pillow. If you see a puddle when your child is sleeping, or if you see drool coming from the mouth when they are awake, then this may mean that the sore throat is serious.
In these cases, the drool is likely caused by the fact that your child is unable to swallow. And, if the tonsils are closing off the throat, this can be quite dangerous.
Swelling can lead to a decreased ability to breathe, and it can also cause a dehydration issue if your child is unable to swallow fluids.
If drooling is an issue, then use a flashlight to look in the mouth. If you see that the tonsils are inflamed to the point that they are touching the uvula in the middle of the throat, then it is time to see your pediatrician.
This is also a good idea if you see white spots on the tonsils or white lumps. Lumps may mean that abscesses are present, and they can grow enough to completely encapsulate the space in the throat.
Your Child Has A Rash
Strep throat is caused by bacteria that infect the tonsils and often a rash will appear with the illness. Other illnesses present with a sore throat as well and include scarlet fever, mononucleosis, measles, and hand, foot, and mouth disease. Testing will need to be completed for diagnostic purposes and treatment will be supplied based on the tests.
Keep in mind that diagnostic testing will not only help your pediatrician treat your child, but it will help you to understand whether or not your child is contagious. This is especially concerning when it comes to measles.
Rashes can sometimes cause scarring too, and this is why treatment may be necessary. So, make sure you are speaking with your pediatrician even if you see a slight rash appearing with a sore throat.
If you want to know more about sore throat issues in children, contact a pediatric service such as Willow Oak Pediatrics.