Strep throat is an infection in the throat and tonsils caused by bacteria known as group A Streptococcus (group A strep). While it can affect anyone, it is most common in children between the ages of 5 and 15, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Unlike sore throats caused by viruses, strep throat requires antibiotic treatment to prevent rare but serious complications, such as rheumatic fever. A pediatric urgent care center can quickly determine the cause of your child’s symptoms and start them on the right treatment plan.
In this blog, we will discuss what happens when you seek urgent care for pediatric strep throat.
When your child complains of a sore throat, seeking timely urgent care is crucial for a proper diagnosis and treatment.
- Recognizing strep throat symptoms: Strep throat symptoms can appear suddenly and are more severe than viral sore throats, often including fever, pain when swallowing, and red, swollen tonsils.
- Diagnosis requires proper testing: A rapid strep test or throat culture is essential to confirm strep throat and guide appropriate treatment.
- Antibiotics prevent complications: Timely antibiotic treatment eliminates the infection, reduces symptoms, and prevents serious complications like rheumatic fever.
What Are the Symptoms of Strep Throat?
According to the Mayo Clinic, knowing the signs of strep throat can help you decide when to seek urgent care for pediatric patients. The symptoms can appear suddenly and are often more severe than those of a viral sore throat.
Key symptoms of strep throat include:
- A sore throat that comes on very quickly
- Pain when swallowing
- Fever of 101°F (38.3°C) or higher
- Red and swollen tonsils, sometimes with white patches or streaks of pus
- Tiny red spots on the roof of the mouth, called petechiae
- Swollen, tender lymph nodes in the front of the neck
It is also important to note what symptoms are not typically associated with strep throat. Symptoms like a cough, runny nose, or hoarseness are more indicative of a viral infection.
How is Strep Throat Diagnosed at a Pediatric Urgent Care?
You cannot diagnose strep throat just by looking at the throat. To confirm the diagnosis, a healthcare provider must perform a test. The most common diagnostic tool used at an urgent care for pediatric patients is a rapid antigen detection test, also known as a rapid strep test.
The provider will gently swab the back of your child’s throat to collect a sample. This test can provide results within minutes. If the rapid test is positive, your child has strep throat, and the provider will prescribe antibiotics.
If the rapid test is negative but the provider still suspects strep throat, they may perform a throat culture. This test is more accurate but takes a couple of days to get results.
What is the Treatment for Strep Throat?
If your child is diagnosed with strep throat, the most common treatment is a course of antibiotics prescribed by a healthcare provider. These medications work to eliminate the bacteria causing the infection, reduce symptoms, and prevent complications.
Penicillin or amoxicillin (Amoxil) are typically the first-choice antibiotics for treating strep throat in children. These medications are effective, well-tolerated, and have a long history of safe use in pediatric care. Your provider at urgent care for pediatrics will determine the appropriate dosage and duration based on your child’s age and specific health needs.
It is crucial that your child finishes the entire prescribed course of antibiotics, even if they begin to feel better after a few doses. Stopping the medication too early can lead to the infection returning or potentially causing more serious health issues, such as rheumatic fever or kidney inflammation. Taking the full course ensures that the bacteria is completely eradicated from your child’s system.
When Can Your Child Return to Normal Activities?
Once your child has been on antibiotics for at least 24 hours and their fever has completely resolved, they are usually no longer contagious and can safely return to school or daycare. This helps reduce the risk of spreading the infection to others while allowing your child to resume their daily activities.
By following these steps and addressing strep throat promptly, your child can recover quickly and avoid potential complications. Always consult with your healthcare provider if you have any concerns or if symptoms persist.
Urgent Care for Pediatric Patients in Fairless Hills, PA
When you need prompt, reliable care for your child’s sore throat, Patient Care Now Urgent Care is here to help. Our dedicated team provides compassionate urgent care, ensuring your child receives an accurate diagnosis and effective treatment. We offer rapid strep throat testing and have the expertise to manage your child’s health needs.
If you suspect your child has strep throat, do not wait. Walk-ins are welcome, or you can call us at (267) 202-6433 to save time. Visit our facility for fast and professional pediatric care.
