Pharyngitis

At Kids 1st Urgent Care, we understand that when your child has pharyngitis (inflammation of the throat), it can be both distressing and concerning. Our approach focuses on providing compassionate care while adhering to the clinical pathways established by top children's hospitals. We recognize that a child’s sore throat can cause significant discomfort and anxiety for both the child and their parents. Our team takes the time to explain the condition, discuss treatment options, and answer any questions to provide reassurance and support.

What are Pharyngitis and Tonsillitis?

Pharyngitis and tonsillitis are throat infections that result in inflammation.

• Tonsillitis occurs when the tonsils, the lymph nodes located at the back of the throat, are primarily affected.
• Pharyngitis is when the inflammation primarily affects the throat.

A child may also experience inflammation and infection in both the tonsils and the throat simultaneously, a condition known as pharyngotonsillitis.

These infections spread through close contact with other individuals. Bacterial infections are more frequent during the winter months, while viral infections are more common in the summer and fall.

Facts about Pharyngitis and Tonsillitis

Pharyngitis and tonsillitis are frequently observed in school-aged children. Children under the age of 2 rarely contract group A β-hemolytic streptococcus (GABHS), also known as strep throat.

Causes of Pharyngitis and Tonsillitis

Throat infections can have various causes. The most common infectious agents include:

• Viruses
  • Adenovirus
  • Influenza virus
  • Epstein-Barr virus
  • Herpes simplex virus‍
• Bacteria‍
  • Group A β-hemolytic streptococci (GABHS)
  • Neisseria gonorrhea
  • Haemophilus influenzae type B
  • Mycoplasma
  • Fungal Infections
  • Parasitic Infections
  • Cigarette Smoke

Signs and Symptoms

The symptoms of pharyngitis and tonsillitis can vary depending on the cause of the infection and the individual child. Symptoms can appear suddenly or develop gradually. Common symptoms include:

• Sore throat
• Fever (ranging from low grade to high)
• Headache
• Reduced appetite
• General malaise
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Stomach ache
• Painful swallowing
• Redness or drainage in the throat

Diagnosis of Pharyngitis and Tonsillitis

• It can be challenging to differentiate between a viral sore throat and strep throat based solely on physical examination. Identifying whether the sore throat is caused by Group A β-hemolytic streptococci (GABHS) is crucial, as it requires antibiotic treatment to prevent complications associated with these bacteria.
• Typically, children with these symptoms undergo a strep test to determine if Group A β- hemolytic streptococci (GABHS) is present. This often involves a simple throat swab.
• If the test is positive for Group A β-hemolytic streptococci (GABHS), antibiotics will be prescribed.

What is Strep Throat?

Strep throat is an infection of the throat caused by a bacterium known as Group A β-hemolytic streptococci (GABHS). This bacterium can be transmitted through airborne droplets or saliva, particularly when sharing food or beverages.

Signs and Symptoms of Strep Throat

The symptoms associated with strep throat may include:

• Throat pain and painful swallowing
• Tender, swollen lymph nodes in the neck
• Red spots on the roof of the mouth or palate
• Swollen and red tonsils, occasionally with white patches
• Fever
• Headache
• Nausea or vomiting along with abdominal pain
• A fine sandpaper-like rash, also known as scarlet fever

Strep throat generally does not present with common viral symptoms such as a runny nose, cough, or diarrhea. If these symptoms appear, it may be useful to observe for a day or two to see if they develop further.

Treatment for Pharyngitis and Tonsillitis

The treatment approach for pharyngitis and tonsillitis will be tailored by our provider based on several factors:

• Your child's age, overall health, and medical history
• The severity of the condition
• The underlying cause of the infection
• Your child's tolerance for specific medications or treatments
• Expected progression of the condition
• Your preferences

For viral infections, the focus is on relieving symptoms and improving comfort, as antibiotics are ineffective against viral sore throats. Treatment may include:

• Acetaminophen (e.g., Tylenol) and/or Ibuprofen (e.g., Motrin) for pain relief
• Increased fluid intake
• Throat lozenges

If the infection is bacterial, antibiotics will be prescribed.

Child-Friendly Environment

Understanding that medical treatments can be stressful for children, all of our providers have been trained by our Child Life Specialists on how to approach your child in a friendly and compassionate manner. We strive to make the experience as stress-free as possible, with a child-centered environment and a caring staff that helps ease any anxiety.

Kids 1st Urgent Care sources its medical research from leading authorities in pediatric medicine, including the American Academy of Pediatrics, Cincinnati Children's Hospital, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, and Texas Children’s Hospital.