How to Treat Sore Throat in Children


A sore throat, where the throat feels raw and tickly and it may be uncomfortable to swallow, is usually the symptom of an infection. Coughs, colds, influenza, tonsillitis can all cause the throat to become sore. A sore throat is not usually a serious problem, but if it persists, consult a doctor in case of more serious infection.

What you can do

Young babies may show signs of difficulty in swallowing if their throat is sore. Babies and children may also feel gener­ally unwell and lose their appetite. Check to see whether the glands have become swollen by running your hands down either side of your child’s neck and take their temperature. Gargling with salt water may help. Give your child plenty of fluids to drink and offer easy-to-eat foods, such as soup and yoghurt.

Treatment

Herbal medicine

If your child suffers from persistent sore throats and colds, the herbalist will look at ways of improving the immune system to help prevent susceptibility to further infection. They may recommend herbs that will help to boost the immune system, such as Echinacea. Herbs which work well against infection such as Indigo, Thyme and Garlic may also be given.

Homoeopathy

A homoeopath will look at the child’s general constitution. If they’re looking flushed, have a headache and their throat is burning and it is difficult to swallow, Belladonna may be recommended. If the child’s throat has been exposed to the cold, feels dry and rough and their voice is hoarse and they have a raised temperature, Aconite may also be recommended. If it hurts the child to swallow and the neck and ears are painful, leaving the child feeling weak, Gelsemium may also be prescribed.

Naturopathy

A naturopath will look for the cause of the sore throat. They may feel recurrent problems could be due to a food allergy or that maybe the child’s diet is too high in refined foods which are not being eliminated properly. Epsom salts to detoxify may be recommended as may a gargle, containing warm water, salt, lemon and honey or the herbal remedies Myrrh or Golden Seal. High doses of vitamin C may be advised and foods high in vitamins A, E and zinc, such as fruit and vegetables. Mineral salt supplements of mag­nesium and sodium phosphate may also be given.

Aromatherapy

An aromatherapist may recommend using Tea-Tree and Lavender oils as both these have antiseptic properties and Tea-Tree can also help to boost the immune system. Other oils that may be used for their antiviral and antibacterial properties are Lemon, Thyme, Bergamot and Lime. The oils can be massaged in around the throat and chest area.

Other therapies that may be beneficial: osteopathy, reflexology.

Filed Under: Health & Personal Care

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About the Author: Andrew Reinert is a health care professional who loves to share different tips on health and personal care. He is a regular contributor to MegaHowTo and lives in Canada.

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