Two of the most common causes of sore throats are strep throat and tonsillitis. Since both of these conditions involve the throat pain and inflammation as well as the tonsils (lymph nodes in the back of the mouth/throat), it’s easy to confuse the two conditions, especially when your child is miserable and in pain. The fact is, strep throat and tonsillitis are very different conditions that require different types of treatments. Let’s take a quick look at what the differences between strep throat ... [Read More]
congestion
Preventing Heat Stroke in the Summer
When our bodies get hot, we sweat, which is nature’s way to cool ourselves down. When the body loses its ability to cool itself and our internal body temperature reaches 104 degrees or higher, however, heatstroke – a life-threatening condition – can occur. According to the Centers for Disease Control, each year an average of 658 people succumb to extreme heat; this statistic is even more tragic when you realize most of these heat-related casualties more than likely could have been ... [Read More]
Common Cold, Strep Throat, or the Flu: How do you know?
Your child comes home from school complaining of a sore throat, fever, chills, and difficulty swallowing. The only thing you know for sure is tomorrow is going to be a “sick day” for her. But is it a common cold, strep throat, or the flu? How do you know? Here are some clues to help you differentiate between the three. Common Cold The common cold is a viral infection of your nose and throat (upper respiratory tract). Even though colds make you feel miserable, they are usually harmless. ... [Read More]