Sore Throat - Symptom

Causes

Usually caused by an infection of the throat (pharyngitis). Since the tonsils are in that area, they are usually also infected (tonsillitis).
Colds (URIs). Most sore throats are part of a cold. In fact, a sore throat may be the only symptom for the first 24 hours.
Influenza. A sore throat can be the first symptom in flu infections.
Viral pharyngitis. Some viruses cause a sore throat without nasal symptoms.
Herpangina. A special viral infection of the throat that causes little ulcers near the tonsils.
Strep pharyngitis. Group A Strep is the most common bacterial cause. It accounts for 20% of persistent sore throats. Only these need an antibiotic.
Postnasal drip. Drainage from sinus congestion can cause a sore throat. Sometimes, it's because the secretions are irritating to the throat. More often, it's from the frequent throat clearing.
Mouth breathing. Children who sleep with the mouth open may wake with a sore throat. It feels better within an hour of having something to drink. Use a humidifier to help prevent a dry mouth.

Strep Throat

Symptoms include sore throat, fever, headache, stomach pain, nausea and vomiting.
Cough, hoarseness, red eyes, and runny nose are usually not seen with Strep throat. These symptoms point more to a viral cause.
Scarlet fever rash (fine, red, sandpaper-like rash) is highly suggestive of Strep throat.
Peak age: 5 to 15 years old. Not common under 2 years old unless sibling has Strep.
Diagnosis should be confirmed by a Strep test before starting treatment. There is no risk to wait until a Strep test is done.
Standard treatment is with antibiotics by mouth.

Prevention of Spread to Others

Overview:

Most sore throats are just part of a cold and caused by a virus.
A cough, hoarse voice or nasal discharge points to a cold as the cause
If a sore throat is the only symptom, it's still usually viral. A fever or swollen neck lymph nodes point to this as the cause.
Here is some care advice that should help.

Sore Throat Pain Relief:

Age over 1 year. Can sip warm fluids such as warm chicken broth or apple juice. Some children prefer cold foods such as popsicles or ice cream.
Age over 6 years. Can also suck on hard candy or lollipops. Butterscotch seems to help.
Age over 8 years. Can also gargle. Use warm water with a little table salt added. A liquid antacid can be added instead of salt. Use Mylanta or the store brand. No prescription is needed.
Medicated throat sprays or lozenges are generally not helpful.

Pain Medicine:

To help with the pain, give acetaminophen (such as Tylenol) or ibuprofen. Use as needed.

Fever:

For fevers above 102° F (39° C), give acetaminophen (such as Tylenol) or ibuprofen. Note: Lower fevers are important for fighting infections.
For ALL fevers: Keep your child well hydrated. Give lots of cold fluids.

Antibiotics Not Needed:

Fluids and Soft Diet:

Try to get your child to drink adequate fluids.
Goal: Keep your child well hydrated.
Cold drinks, milk shakes, popsicles, slushes, and sherbet are good choices.
Solids. Offer a soft diet. Also avoid foods that need much chewing. Avoid citrus, salty, or spicy foods. Note: Fluid intake is much more important than eating any solids.
Swollen tonsils can make some solid foods hard to swallow. Cut food into smaller pieces.

What to Expect: