Sore throat is usually caused by a viral (most common) or bacterial infection.
Sore throat caused by a bacteria might be due to an infection called "strep throat."
With strep throat, red spots on the roof of the mouth or a swollen uvula may be seen, and white patches can appear on the tonsils that are glands in the back of the throat.
If sore throat is caused by a virus, other symptoms like runny nose, Itchy or red eyes, cough, stuffed up chest, raspy voice may be present too. Antibiotics are not used and not helpful in this case.
People with strep throat do not usually have itchy or red eyes, a runny nose or a cough.
However, it is very important to diagnose “strep throat” and treat it with appropriate antibiotics.
Over-the-counter pain medications like acetaminophen or ibuprofen plus throat lozenges or sprays can help with pain.
It is important to remember not to use aspirin or any medicines that have aspirin in children younger than 18 years since it can cause a serious problem called Reye syndrome
Children with fever should stay home for at least 24 hours after the fever has normalized.
Remember that frequent hand washing with soap and water prevents the spread of infections.
