How to Treat Your Child's Sore Throat

You always want your kids to be having fun, but if your child is complaining of a sore throat or you notice they're having trouble swallowing, there are a few simple things you can do to help ease their discomfort. Give them a cold drink.

It's really important to help your child be comfortable when they have a sore throat. So things that can help are cold liquids, such as juices, water, electrolyte solutions and sometimes even popsicles. The coldness of a popsicle can really help with that sore throat. Warm liquids can sometimes help a child too. For example, decaffeinated tea with honey or lemon can sometimes help. And some parents feel that chicken soup is really nice for their children as well. The important thing is that your child should continue to be hydrated and offer him things that will help him relieve that pain. Sometimes gargling with warm water and salt can help a child with their sore throat as well. It can clean that area out and may help to recover from that infection. Often young kids can't really gargle. They don't really have the skills to do it, but if you have an older child who has a sore throat, certainly offer that option. It's really important to help your child with the pain of a sore throat. So a pain reliever such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen can be really helpful. Choose one or the other and stick with it. And remember check the back of the bottle for the correct dosage for your child's weight and age. And also remember it takes about an hour for that medicine to kick in. So don't fret if it doesn't happen instantly.

Trust your instincts and know when to call the doctor.

Most sore throats are caused by viruses, but if your child's had a high fever for more than 24 hours, has a rash, doesn't look well or has had episodes of strep before, it's probably a good idea to speak to your doctor to make sure it's not more than a virus.

When a sore throat hits, it can be tough, but most kids are back on the playground after a couple of days of rest and tender love and care.