Sore & Strep Throat Treatment

Sore throats can stem from a range of factors. Viral infections, such as the common cold, flu, or mononucleosis, are the most frequent culprits. Environmental irritants, such as dry air or exposure to smoke, can also irritate the throat, as can allergies or acid reflux.

Strep throat, on the other hand, is bacterial and requires treatment to prevent complications like rheumatic fever. Strep throat typically causes sudden soreness, especially when swallowing, along with red, swollen tonsils that may have white patches or streaks of pus. Other signs include fever, swollen lymph nodes, and tiny red spots on the roof of the mouth. Fatigue, nausea, or headaches may also occur, particularly in children. If your child’s sore throat is accompanied by these symptoms, we urge you to seek a medical evaluation from their pediatrician.

Treatment for your child will often require at-home care to ease their pain and irritation. (They’ll need to stay home anyway, since strep is contagious.) Staying hydrated, resting, and using over-the-counter remedies like acetaminophen or ibuprofen, as directed by a pediatrician, can help reduce pain and fever. Throat lozenges or sprays with soothing ingredients like menthol can also ease discomfort. For bacterial infections like strep throat, antibiotics are necessary to eliminate the bacteria and prevent complications.

Even when antibiotics are required for strep throat, other remedies can help manage symptoms. Warm drinks with honey and saltwater gargles can soothe the throat. Humidifiers can also alleviate irritation caused by dry air.