Archives – Tips for Treating Sore Throats in Children – ISTOCK – Archive
Falling temperatures bring about the spread of viral infections. Although no one is immune to different illnesses, children’s limited development of immune systems makes them more vulnerable. Experts say there is a potential risk of strep throat between the ages of 3 and 15. This type of bacterial infection is one of the main causes of sore throat because it causes pharyngeal irritation.
However, this annoying symptom can also be related to the effects of the common cold or other similar viruses. Therefore, it is necessary to see a doctor for a check-up to determine the source of the problem based on the symptoms.
Types of Sore Throat Although the terms sore throat, pharyngitis, tonsillitis and laryngitis are often used to refer to the same discomfort, we are talking about completely different conditions, which is why they deserve independent study:? Pharyngitis: Characterized by inflammation of the membrane covering the pharynx, usually due to streptococcal infection. Likewise, fever is common, and the tonsils and lymph nodes in the neck tend to become inflamed. ? Tonsillitis: Also known as pharyngeal tonsillitis, it corresponds to redness and inflammation of the soft tissues on the sides of the mouth. As for its origin, it can originate from the action of viruses and bacteria. In addition to the burning sensation, the patient’s tonsils were covered with white patches. ? Laryngitis: Unlike the previous pathology, the inflammatory process of laryngitis occurs in the larynx or larynx, that is, in the lower part of the throat. In most cases, the symptoms are the same as those of a cold. However, after 24 or 72 hours, what is known as a “barking cough,” “wheezing” when breathing, and difficulty speaking may occur. What are the symptoms of sore throat in children? Throat inflammation can be associated with different causes, so its symptoms vary depending on the type of substance causing the inflammation, the most common are:? Burning sensation and difficulty swallowing? Hoarseness, cough? General malaise and fever? Frequent sneezing and headaches? Stomach pain, sometimes with nausea and vomiting.
While it is recommended to take your child to the pediatrician when the above symptoms occur, medical care is a priority when throat discomfort results in shortness of breath or the inability to swallow (a symptom detected by abnormal drooling).
Top Causes of Sore Throat in Children As we mentioned, a sore throat can originate from a variety of reasons. Although it usually occurs during the common cold, flu, and viral or bacterial infections, three factors may trigger discomfort in children: Allergies: This pain is accompanied by postnasal drip and is caused by exposure to certain triggers . The most common ones are pet dander, dust, pollen, and certain foods.
? Dryness: Just like air conditioners, dry indoor air can lead to nasal congestion. Because they have to breathe through their mouth, their throats can become dry, causing irritation and pain.
? Irritants: Children are more susceptible to environmental pollutants, especially second-hand smoke. Likewise, some perfumes and chemicals, such as cleaners and sprays, are also considered irritants.
How to treat sore throat in children? Although doctors will determine the appropriate treatment based on the root cause of the problem, sore throats in children must be addressed comprehensively, which involves taking steps to promote relief of discomfort. In this sense, we can practice the following techniques at home: ? Cover the throat with a handkerchief.
? Pay attention to the humidity in the room. In the absence of a humidifier, we can use hot water.
? To avoid dehydration, children often refuse to drink water due to difficulty swallowing, so it is worth drinking lemon juice and honey alternately. Chamomile tea is another excellent choice due to its anti-inflammatory properties.
? Limit foods and drinks that are too cold or too hot; extreme temperatures can increase irritation.
? Use a saline solution to clear your nasal passages. This method can effectively reduce throat clearing, thereby reducing the discomfort caused by coughing.
? Try to eat soft foods. In addition to choosing foods that are easy to swallow, it is recommended to give up foods with strong flavors. Due to a lack of appetite, children often prefer custards, porridge, yogurt and purees.
? Except for very young children, gargling with warm water and salt can help a lot.
The dangers of self-medication must be remembered, and although paracetamol and ibuprofen are available over-the-counter in some countries, only trained medical professionals can prescribe the appropriate dosage. Likewise, in clinical situations where prescribed treatment is required, recovery is conditional on strict adherence to the pediatrician’s guidelines, especially when these include the use of antibiotics.
Even if a child is asymptomatic, stopping medication early increases the chance of drug resistance developing and the infection returning.
Can sore throats in children be prevented? During school age, our children are in constant contact with other children, which, combined with an increase in viral infections, poses a risk factor. While we can’t escape this reality, we can take steps to reduce the likelihood of contagion:? Educate people on the importance of proper and frequent hand washing, especially before eating and after using the toilet. Likewise, they must learn to cover their mouths when they cough or sneeze.
? Teach children not to touch their faces with dirty hands and not to put their fingers in their mouths.
? During the development of the disease, it is recommended to avoid sudden changes in temperature and take the patient outside. If you need to go out in hot seasons, you should wear warm clothes and cover your mouth and neck.
? Use paper towels and discard immediately after first use.
? Disinfect linens and surfaces that children touch frequently, as well as pacifiers and toys.
? Limit the spread of the virus. Pathogens accumulate in poorly ventilated areas, so it is recommended to ventilate all spaces in your home.
? Choose nutritious foods that strengthen your immune system and pay close attention to your hydration.