What should you do when your child complains of a sore throat? How do you know if it’s just a mild cold or strep throat? Knowing when urgent care is necessary can save you time and worry.
Dr. James Lee and our dedicated team at Woodstock Family Practice & Urgent Care want all parents in Woodstock, Georgia, to have peace of mind when it comes to their children’s health.
Of course, we know how stressful it can be when your kids are sick. That’s why we’re highlighting the signs that indicate your child may need a strep test as soon as possible.
Is your child’s sore throat due to a cold, or could it be strep throat? You won’t have to wonder if you know how to recognize symptoms of strep throat, such as:
These are signs that the Streptococcus bacteria has invaded and caused strep throat. If you notice any of these symptoms in your child, come to Woodstock Family Practice & Urgent Care as soon as possible to prevent more serious conditions from developing.
Prompt treatment can protect your child’s health and well-being and the health of others in your home or community.
We can administer a painless rapid strep test to arrive at an accurate diagnosis. If the test is positive, we start your child on antibiotics right away.
However, if the test is negative and Dr. Lee still suspects strep throat, he takes a throat culture by swabbing the back of your child’s throat. The results take a day or two, but they’re more accurate.
Strep throat is highly contagious and can lead to more serious conditions, such as abscesses or rheumatic fever, if you don’t seek treatment. So, bring your child to Dr. Lee and our urgent care team if they have strep throat symptoms, so we can diagnose them and begin treatment.
If your child has strep throat, prompt care prevents the spread of infection and hastens their recovery.
Dr. Lee treats strep throat with antibiotics to kill the bacteria. At home, you can use over-the-counter medications to relieve pain and reduce swollen neck glands.
Also, ensure your child gets plenty of rest and fluids.
Always follow Dr. Lee’s instructions carefully and make sure your child finishes the entire course of antibiotics as prescribed. In most cases, symptoms improve within 48 hours after beginning treatment. But if the symptoms worsen or your child doesn’t seem to improve, contact us immediately.
Fortunately, there’s a lot you can do to keep sore throats at bay.
Topping the list: Keep your child’s vaccinations up to date. Vaccines protect against illnesses and common infections that can cause sore throats.
Next, teach your child the importance of washing their hands regularly with warm water and soap to stop the spread of germs.
Also, don’t underestimate the power of a balanced diet, a good night’s sleep, and plenty of water.
Finally, educate yourself about the signs and dangers of strep throat to know when urgent care is the best way to go. To schedule an appointment, contact us online or by phone or visit our walk-in urgent care clinic as needed.
