For new parents, every cough, sneeze, or fever in their infant can be a cause for concern. But what happens when your baby has a sore throat caused by strep? Strep throat is widely known as a common infection in school-aged children and adults, yet it can also affect infants. Understanding the symptoms, risks, and treatments for strep in infants is vital to helping them recover swiftly and safely.
This blog will guide you through the symptoms of strep throat in infants, the treatment options available, and when you should seek help.
Understanding Strep Throat in Infants
Strep throat is a bacterial infection caused by Streptococcus pyogenes (Group A Streptococcus). It is highly contagious and passes through respiratory droplets when someone coughs or sneezes. While strep is more common in older children and adults, infants are not immune.
Why Is Strep in Infants Uncommon but Concerning
The good news is that strep throat in infants is less common than in older kids. This is partially because young infants still carry maternal antibodies, which may provide some protection. However, when infants do get strep throat, it can sometimes present more subtly than in older children, making diagnosis tricky.
Prompt treatment is necessary because untreated strep infections can lead to complications like scarlet fever or rheumatic fever in rare cases.
Symptoms of Strep Throat in Infants
Recognizing the symptoms of strep throat in infants can be challenging, especially since they cannot communicate their discomfort. Below are some common signs to watch for.
- Fever: A high or consistent fever (above 100.4°F) is often the first noticeable symptom. New parents often wonder about fever in infants and when to worry, and the answer is simple—if your baby has a fever lasting longer than 24 hours or seems lethargic, consult a pediatrician immediately.
- Irritability and Fussiness: Infants with strep throat may display increased crying, restlessness, or resistance to eating or drinking.
- Red or Swollen Throat: Though harder to spot in a baby, redness and swelling of the throat or tonsils may be present.
- White Patches on Tonsils: White or yellow spots in the throat or on the tonsils can signal a bacterial infection.
- Runny Nose or Congestion: While these can be signs of a cold, they sometimes accompany strep throat in infants.
- Swollen Lymph Nodes: Check the neck for any swollen or tender lymph nodes, as this can indicate an infection.
If your infant exhibits these symptoms, it is crucial to take them to a pediatrician. Early detection and prompt infant strep throat treatment are key to preventing complications.
Treatment Options for Infant Strep Throat
While the symptoms of strep throat can seem alarming, the infection is treatable with proper care. Here is a breakdown of what treatment typically involves.
1. Diagnosis
Your pediatrician will begin by reviewing your baby’s symptoms and performing a physical examination. A throat swab test may be conducted to confirm the presence of Group A Streptococcus bacteria.
2. Antibiotics
If the test confirms strep throat, your infant will be prescribed antibiotics, typically amoxicillin or penicillin. These medications help eradicate the bacteria and reduce the risk of complications. Ensure your baby takes the entire course of antibiotics as directed, even if they start feeling better.
3. Symptom Management at Home
- Keep your baby hydrated by offering small, frequent feedings of breast milk, formula, or water.
- Monitor their fever and administer baby-safe fever reducers like acetaminophen (as directed by your pediatrician).
- Provide comfort by keeping the baby in a peaceful, quiet environment with ample rest.
4. Follow-Up
Follow-up visits may be necessary to ensure your baby’s symptoms have resolved and the infection has not returned.
When to Worry About Fever in Infants
Fevers in infants are a common concern for parents but learning when to worry can provide peace of mind. If your infant has any of the following symptoms alongside a fever, it is time to contact a pediatrician.
- Fever higher than 100.4°F for babies under three months old
- Fever lasting longer than 48 hours in any infant
- Refusal to eat or drink, resulting in potential dehydration
- Acting excessively lethargic or unusually inconsolable
- Signs of a rash, breathing difficulty, or seizures
When in doubt, it is always better to err on the side of caution and consult a pediatrician.
Pediatric Infant Care in Spring and The Woodlands, Texas
At Northwoods Pediatric Center, P.A., we understand that caring for a sick infant can feel overwhelming. Our team of experienced pediatricians is dedicated to providing high-quality medical care for your little one at every stage of their growth.
Here is how we help with infant strep throat treatment and more.
- Same-Day Appointments: Sick babies should not have to wait. We offer same-day sick visits to address your baby’s needs quickly.
- Expert Diagnostics: Our team uses thorough diagnostic tools to identify infections like strep throat correctly.
- Customized Treatment Plans: Your baby’s health is unique, and so is their care. We develop tailored treatment plans to ensure the best outcomes.
- Parental Support: From answering questions about fever in infants to teaching proper medication usage, you will never feel left in the dark.
Call us today at (281) 296-7770 to schedule an appointment for your little one today. Alternatively, you can simply fill out our appointment request form.
We look forward to serving you!
