Scarlet Fever Every Parents Should Should Know The Warning Signs

Parents have the universal responsibility to take care of their children. They do their best to ensure that they are well cared for, both physically and emotionally. One of the ways that we do this is to ensure that they are cared for properly when any type of illness takes place. Quite honestly, children are going to get sick and there’s not much that we can do about it but we can do our best to make them feel more comfortable and to help the illness go away as quickly as possible.

Some types of illnesses come and go very quickly but there are other severe illnesses that can strike without warning and stick around for quite some time. One of the illnesses that we may put into that category is scarlet fever and surprisingly, it’s making a comeback. Some of the symptoms of scarlet fever include itching, a rash or a sore throat. If we see this problem in our children we want to act as quickly as possible.

In recent years, a new strain of scarlet fever has been making the rounds. Since it was a problem in the Middle Ages, things have improved significantly and we can often deal with this serious problem that would have been potentially deadly at one time.

What is it that causes scarlet fever?

The real culprit behind the disease is the Streptococcus bacteria, which is also responsible for strep throat. When children succumb to the bacteria, scarlet fever may be one of the problems that occurs. Typically, a rash like a sunburn will appear on the face, neck, chest and back area but the area around the mouth is not typically affected.

After six days or so, the skin starts to peel off and other symptoms appear.

Common Symptoms

Often Scarlet Fever is accompanied by a:

Red Rash

Flushed face

Sore throat

Itchy skin

Swollen neck glands.

High Fever (101°F)

Abdominal pain

Something important to keep in mind is the contagious nature of scarlet fever. If your child has close friends or siblings, make sure that they use different silverware and toothbrushes. Your children should stay indoors until the infection has passed.

Antibiotics are typically given for about 10 days to get rid of scarlet fever. It may be that the symptoms begin to dissipate before 10 days but the antibiotic should be given for the full course. After the symptoms disappear, make sure you wait another 24 hours before sending the children back to school.

If the bacteria is not treated, it could damage the heart, kidneys and other organs.

A Treatment for the Symptoms

During the time that your child is dealing with the symptoms, they can be very uncomfortable. Some of these natural pain relievers and remedies may help.

Apple cider vinegar – there are many benefits to using apple cider vinegar, including dealing with a sore throat. You can also warm the liquid and add cayenne pepper to increase the effectiveness. Since the vinegar is acidic, it can treat infections and burn patients. Apply it with a cotton cloth to the rash associated with scarlet fever.

To improve a sore throat, use raw honey, raspberry leaves and mint in hot water two or three times every day.

A humidifier or vaporizer can keep the child from irritating the throat by coughing. Lavender oil can be added along with other essential oils to reduce inflammation.

Lavender oil may be beneficial for a wide variety of uses. It helps with the symptoms of scarlet fever because it moisturizes the skin. Apply the lavender oil by adding 2% olive or almond oil before applying it.

Clip the fingernails short so your children don’t scratch the skin and damage it.

Using honey and lemon tea can help to keep up nutrition, and soft foods or soups can be added to the diet.

Keep your child hydrated and many of the issues associated with dehydration will not be a problem. Staying hydrated can also help with the scratchy throat.

Avoid smoking or using cleaning supplies in the area because they can be irritating.

It can be difficult to watch our child go through scarlet fever. Trying to treat the symptoms is important but be sure to follow your doctor’s instructions.