Alphabetic Guide to Child Care - Sore throat

Sore Throat

“It hurts when I swallow” is a common complaint of childhood. It may be connected with a cold or tonsillitis, but if there is tenderness at the sides of the neck and a rise in temperature, the physician should be called promptly so that tests can be made to see whether the child has strep throat. Often a throat culture is necessary. A streptococcus throat infection that is undiagnosed and untreated can have serious consequences. See also STREP THROAT, TONSILLITIS.