It’s not uncommon for children to wake up with a sore throat. While many cases are mild and can be managed at home, there are times when a sore throat could be a sign of something more serious, like strep throat or a viral infection requiring medical attention. As a parent or caregiver, it can be difficult to determine when your child’s symptoms warrant a trip to urgent care. In this blog, we’ll help you understand the signs and symptoms that indicate it’s time to seek professional care.
For same-day pediatric urgent care, visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Aurora Havana. Our providers specialize in treating a wide range of pediatric conditions, including sore throats. Walk in or plan your visit in advance below!
Common Causes of Sore Throat in Children
Sore throats in children can stem from a variety of causes, some more serious than others. The most common culprits include:
- Viral Infections: Including common cold, the flu, or COVID-19
- Bacterial Infections: Most notably, Group A Streptococcus (strep throat)
- Allergies or Postnasal Drip: Often triggered by pollen, dust, mold, or pet dander
- Irritants: Exposure to smoke or dry indoor air can irritate the throat
While viral infections typically resolve on their own with rest and fluids, bacterial infections like strep throat often require antibiotic treatment to prevent complications.
When To Treat at Home vs. Visit Urgent Care
Mild sore throats that accompany symptoms of a cold– like a runny nose, mild cough, or low-grade fever– can usually be managed at home with hydration, rest, and over-the-counter remedies. However, there are times when a sore throat may require urgent care evaluation.
You should consider taking your child to urgent care if:
- The sore throat lasts longer than 2-3 days without improvement
- Your child has a fever above 101°F
- There are white patches or pus visible on the tonsils
- Their lymph nodes (under the jaw or in the neck) are swollen and tender
- Your child has a rash along with a sore throat
- They were recently exposed to someone with strep throat or another contagious illness
If your child seems very fatigued, is drooling due to pain when swallowing, or is experiencing high-pitched breathing sounds, these are red flags that require immediate medical attention. It’s always best to err on the side of caution and seek professional care for any abnormal symptoms that your child is experiencing.
What To Expect at Urgent Care
At an urgent care center, a provider will conduct a physical exam and ask about your child’s symptoms, duration of illness, and any known exposures. If strep throat is suspected, a rapid strep test or throat culture may be performed. If your child is diagnosed with strep throat or another bacterial infection, the provider will likely prescribe antibiotics. For viral sore throats, treatment focuses on symptom relief– hydration, rest, pain relievers, and throat soothing remedies. Urgent care providers may also offer guidance on returning to school or daycare, which often requires at least 24 hours of antibiotic treatment for bacterial infections.
Get Walk-In Pediatric Sore Throat Treatment at AFC Urgent Care Aurora Havana
Sore throats are a common part of childhood, but not all cases are the same. Knowing when to seek medical attention can make a big difference in your child’s recovery and comfort. If your child’s sore throat is persistent, accompanied by high fever or other concerning symptoms, don’t hesitate to visit urgent care. At AFC Urgent Care Aurora Havana, we can provide a prompt diagnosis and treatment plan to help your child feel better faster and reduce the risk of complications. We accept most health insurance plans and offer low-cost options for self-paying patients. For more information, please contact us directly at (303) 343-6000.
