Accurate diagnosis, supportive care, and targeted antibiotic management when needed for upper respiratory tract infections that present with runny nose, sore throat, cough, and fever.
Indication
- Common cold, pharyngitis, tonsillitis, laryngitis
- Suspected acute otitis media (middle-ear infection) and sinusitis
- Children presenting with high fever, fatigue, and feeding difficulty
- History of recurrent throat infection
- Upper respiratory infection occurring on a background of asthma, allergy, or chronic lung disease
- Symptoms of croup (laryngotracheitis) (barking cough, hoarseness)
Preparation
- Recording the onset of symptoms and the course of fever
- Bringing prior medications used and any allergy history
- Vaccination schedule (especially pneumococcal, diphtheria-tetanus, Hib, influenza)
- Information about illness in close contacts such as daycare/school
How it's performed
- A detailed history and physical examination are performed; ears, throat, nasopharynx, and lungs are auscultated
- When needed, a rapid streptococcal test or throat culture is obtained
- In suspected cases, blood count, CRP, and middle-ear evaluation may be performed when appropriate
- Most cases are considered viral and treated with adequate fluids, saline nasal cleansing, and fever control
- When a bacterial infection (e.g., group A streptococcus, acute otitis media) is confirmed, an appropriate antibiotic is started
- In conditions such as asthma and croup, nebulized treatment or corticosteroids may also be administered
Post-procedure
- If fever lasts more than 48-72 hours or worsens, re-evaluation is recommended
- Full adherence to dose and duration is emphasized for those started on antibiotics
- ENT consultation is planned if hearing concerns arise after middle-ear infection
- In frequently recurrent throat infections, tonsil/adenoid evaluation is performed
- Families are advised regarding nutrition, fluid intake, and sleep patterns
Risks
- Side effects and the development of resistance from unnecessary antibiotic use
- Complications (acute otitis, sinusitis, peritonsillar abscess, tonsil infections)
- Triggering of attacks in children with asthma
- Rare cases of severe respiratory distress in croup that may require hospitalization
- Late complications such as rheumatic fever (especially in untreated streptococcal pharyngitis)
FAQ
Are antibiotics needed for every sore throat?
No. Most sore throats in children are viral and do not require antibiotics. The decision to use antibiotics is made by examination and, when needed, a rapid test.
Which medication should I give to bring down the fever?
Paracetamol or ibuprofen at age- and weight-appropriate doses may be used; aspirin is not used in children. Dose and frequency are determined by the pediatrician.
When should my baby go to the emergency department?
Rapid breathing, bluish discoloration, complete refusal to feed, decreased responsiveness, or any fever in an infant under 3 months requires emergency evaluation.
When can my child return to daycare/school?
Generally when the child has been fever-free for 24 hours, is feeding normally, and has a good general condition; for contagious illnesses, the physician's recommendation should be followed.
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