What should I do if a child has a fever and a sore throat?

Generally speaking, fever refers to an elevated body temperature. A child's fever and sore throat may be caused by environmental factors, physical stress responses, acute tonsillitis, herpangina, acute laryngitis, and other reasons. Treatment options, as advised by a physician, may include general care and medication. If there are any concerns, timely medical consultation is recommended. Detailed explanations are as follows:

1. Environmental Factors

If a child stays for a prolonged period in a dry, cold, or polluted environment, it may easily lead to regulatory imbalances, causing fever and damage to the throat mucosa, which can result in inflammation. Parents should maintain indoor air humidity, avoid prolonged exposure of the child to cold or polluted environments, and encourage the child to drink more water to keep the throat moist.

2. Physical Stress Response

After intense physical activity or emotional fluctuations, a child's body may experience a stress response, leading to elevated body temperature and throat inflammation. Parents should reasonably schedule the child's exercise and rest times, avoid excessive fatigue, and pay attention to emotional changes, providing comfort and support when necessary.

3. Acute Tonsillitis

Acute tonsillitis is mainly caused by bacterial or viral infections. Pathogens invade the tonsillar crypts, where they multiply and cause inflammation, resulting in fever and sore throat. Additional symptoms may include throat pain and swollen, red tonsils. Under a doctor's guidance, medications such as amoxicillin-clavulanate potassium for suspension, ibuprofen suspension, and Kehoujian spray may be used to alleviate symptoms.

4. Herpangina

Herpangina is primarily caused by enteroviruses. The virus replicates within mucosal epithelial cells, causing mucosal damage and resulting in the aforementioned symptoms. Accompanying symptoms may include oral blisters and ulcers. As advised by a doctor, medications such as acetaminophen drops, Kangfuxin solution, and recombinant human interferon α2a for injection may be used for treatment.

5. Acute Laryngitis

Acute laryngitis is mainly caused by viral or bacterial infections of the laryngeal mucosa. The infection leads to congestion and swelling of the laryngeal mucosa, causing fever and throat inflammation. Additional symptoms may include hoarseness and a barking cough. As directed by a physician, medications such as penicillin V potassium tablets, budesonide suspension for inhalation, and cefaclor for suspension may be used for treatment.

In daily life, it is important to ensure children receive balanced nutrition, including sufficient protein, vitamins, and minerals in their diet, to enhance their immune system.