SORE THROAT Symptom Definition Pain, discomfort or raw feeling of the throat, especially when swallowing. Children less than 2 years of age usually don't know how to complain about a sore throat. A young child who refuses previously enjoyed foods or begins to cry during feedings may have a sore throat. Their symptoms are usually better covered using captured by the DRINKING FLUIDS, DECREASED guideline. Cause Most sore throats are part of a cold. In fact, a sore throat is often the first symptom. Of persistent sore throats, about 20% are caused by the Strep bacteria. Only these need an antibiotic. See More Appropriate Topic (instead of this one) If The main symptom is croup, hoarseness or a cough, see CROUP or COUGH (Note: these symptoms are rarely seen with Strep.) WHEN TO CALL YOUR DOCTOR FOR SORE THROAT Call 911 Now (your child may need an ambulance) If: Severe difficulty breathing (struggling for each breath, making grunting noises with each breath, unable to speak or cry because of difficulty breathing) Call Your Doctor Now (night or day) If Your child looks or acts very sick Difficulty breathing, but not severe Great difficulty swallowing fluids or saliva Stiff neck Fever greater than 105° F (40.6° C) Signs of dehydration (very dry mouth, no tears with crying and no urine for more than 8 hours) Purple spots or dots on skin Call Your Doctor Within 24 Hours (between 9am and 4pm) If You think your child needs an office visit or throat culture Sore throat pain is severe and not improved 2 hours after taking ibuprofen Pink rash that's widespread Earache or sinus pain/pressure Fever has lasted more than 3 days Age less than 2 years old Exposure to Strep within last 7 days Sores present on the skin  Sore throat is the main symptom and persists more than 48 hours Call Your Doctor During Weekday Office Hours If Sore throat with cold/cough symptoms is present more than 5 days You have other questions or concerns Parent Care at Home If Probable viral throat infection and you don't think your child needs to be seen. Back to Top HOME CARE ADVICE FOR SORE THROATS Reassurance: Most sore throats are just part of a cold. The presence of a cough, hoarseness or nasal symptoms points to a cold as the cause of your child's sore throat. Local Pain Relief: Children over age 1 can sip warm chicken broth or apple juice. Children over age 4 can suck on hard candy (e.g. butterscotch) or lollipops. Children over age 6 can also gargle warm water with a little table salt or liquid antacid added. Pain Medicine: Give acetaminophen (e.g. Tylenol) or ibuprofen for severe throat discomfort or fever greater than 102°F (39° C). Soft Diet: Cold drinks and milk shakes are especially good. (Reason: Swollen tonsils can make some foods hard to swallow.) Contagiousness: Your child can return to day care or school after the fever is gone and your child feels well enough to participate in normal activities. Children with Strep throat also need to be taking an oral antibiotic for 24 hours before they can return. Expected Course: Sore throats with viral illnesses usually last 4 or 5 days. Call Your Doctor If: Sore throat is the main symptom and lasts more than 48 hours Sore throat with a cold lasts more than 5 days Fever lasts more than 3 days Your child becomes worse or develops any of the "Call Your Doctor" symptoms. Back to Top Disclaimer: This information is not intended be a substitute for professional medical advice. It is provided for educational purposes only. You assume full responsibility for how you choose to use this information. Pediatric HouseCalls Online. Copyright © 2000-2005 Barton Schmitt, M.D. FAAP Reviewed 8/2005 Revised 8/2005 See Other Topics: Cough Croup Drinking Fluids, Decreased View Index of Topics