What is it? A sore throat is caused either by a virus or bacteria. Viruses need supportive care for symptoms and resolve on their own as the body’s immune system fights it off. Bacterial causes such as strep throat need antibiotic treatment.
Common Types
Viral Sore Throat: A virus can cause a sore throat accompanied by a fever and sometimes a headache, body ache, upset stomach or congestion. Some specific viruses that cause sore throats but also have other specific symptoms include:
Strep Pharyngitis: A bacterial infection that is diagnosed with a rapid strep test or throat culture and is treated with Amoxicillin.
When to Manage at Home
✅ You can manage your child's sore throat at home when:
They are still drinking enough fluids to stay hydrated
They have urinated in the last 8 hours
Your child does not have visible swelling to either side of their neck
Your child is able to open their mouth fully and is speaking normally
Your child has not had a fever longer than a full 72 hours without seeing or talking to a medical provider
How to Treat at Home
🏠 Home remedies for sore throats:
Warm Salt Water Gargles: Gargle at least three times a day or more for best relief!
Food Choices: liquids are most important, cool liquids or popsicles or yogurt/applesauce might feel best. Avoid spicy or citrus foods if they are irritating to the throat
💊 Safe Medications
For children 3 months of age and older:
Acetaminophen: dosing guideline or as per your medical provider every 4-6 hours
For children 6 months of age and older:
Ibuprofen: dosing guideline or as per your medical provider every 6 hours
AVOID: Aspirin and throat sprays
When to Contact Us Again
📱 Contact us when:
A sore throat is persisting or getting worse after 3 days
Symptoms worsen or new symptoms develop
You're concerned about low oral intake
You're just not sure and need reassurance
When to Visit Your Pediatrician
🩺 Go to an in-person appointment when:
You suspect your child may have strep throat and need a test
A fever does not resolve on its own in 72 hours or after 48 hours on antibiotics and symptoms are the same or worse
Visible swelling to one side of neck or face only
When to Go to the ER
🚨 Seek immediate emergency care for a sore throat if your child is:
Lethargic, won't drink, and has no urine output in over 8 hours
Drooling and unable to swallow at all
Unable to move their neck normally
If your gut tells you something is wrong, don't hesitate to reach out. Need help? Reconnect with our on-demand team of medical staff available 24/7.
Need more support? Help is just a text message away.
