JACKSONVILLE, Fla – Strep throat is an infection that is seen in children more often than adults, but sometimes it's tough to diagnose. There may be a host of symptoms, but pediatrician Dr. Emma Raizman says there is a tell-tale sign that typically gives it away.
"If your child is complaining of a severe sore throat then it's usually worth bringing them in. If they have a severe sore throat plus fever, headache, stomach ache, and rash, I would definitely bring them in," says Raizman.
Raizman says looking at your child's throat with a flashlight doesn't always tell the whole story. At the doctor's office your child's throat will be swabbed and a test will be performed. It only takes a few minutes and you'll have an answer before you leave, but if it comes up negative a secondary test might be performed just to be sure.
In some cases of strep throat a rash will develop on the chest and neck, it is typically rough like sandpaper, red, and called Scarlet Fever.
Scarlet fever, like strep throat, is treated with antibiotics, which Dr. Raizman says usually leads to a quick recovery.
"Typically, they're going to be out of school for 24 hours. You want them on an antibiotic and after they've been on that antibiotic for 24 hours they are much less contagious," says Raizman.
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Doctor Raizman says your child may need another day or two to fully recover, so if they are still battling the sore throat or some of the other side-effects, just give it a little more time.