Needless to say, whenever a child is struck with an illness, the parents immediately start looking for the solution to reverse the condition. When Scarlet Fever strikes, manifested by sore throat, rash, and itching, parents desperately try anything to stop it! This has become even more common since 2015 due to the increase in the prevalence of scarlet fever cases. The good news is that modern medicine has developed new ways to address the symptoms and reverse the condition.
How Do You Get Scarlet Fever?
Streptococcus bacteria infects children by releasing toxins and children who are more susceptible to it are the most prone to getting Scarlet Fever. Consequently, they experience rash on the face, neck, back, and chest, while the area surrounding the mouth is left intact.
Within 6 days the skin begins to peel off, along with other symptoms:
- Flushed face
- Itchy skin
- Swollen neck glands
- High Fever (101°F)
- Abdominal pain
- Sore throat
- Red rash
What Do I Do When My Child has Scarlet Fever?
First, note that this infection is contagious, meaning that you should limit the contact your child has with other kids. Your child shouldn’t go out until the infection is completely cured and their toothbrushes need to be separated from the ones other family members use.
The treatment involves use of 10-days of antibiotics. While the symptoms may improve sooner, you still need to continue giving your child the antibiotic treatment. Wait 24 hours once the symptoms have subsided prior sending them to school.
Addressing the bacteria is of utmost importance as neglecting them may lead to serious problems in the kidneys, heart, and other vital organs.
Treating Scarlet Fever Symptoms
In case of severe discomfort, the child will need to be given something to relieve the symptoms. For this purpose, you are recommended to try out some natural remedies before reaching for detrimental painkillers:
1. Apple Cider Vinegar
ACV offers a wide range of health benefits, including its ability to relieve a sore throat by warming it and combining it with cayenne pepper. It consists of acetic acid, which is known for its capacity to heal infections in burn patients. To reduce the effects of scarlet fever rash, soak a cotton ball in apple cider vinegar and apply onto the affected area.
2. Raw honey, mint, raspberry leaves
Adding these ingredients to hot water and taking them 2-3 times daily improves sore throats within a very short period of time.
3. Water vapor and humidifiers
These help protect against dry air that is known to trigger coughs and further irritation of the throat. Adding lavender oil enhances their effects, in terms of reducing inflammation in the throat.
4. Lavender oil
This essential oil contains linalool, a compound that alleviates the symptoms of scarlet fever by moisturizing the itchy rash. To treat the itchy rash, apply lavender oil combined with 2 percent of carrier oil like almond or olive oil.
5. Soups, teas, and soft things
Soups and soft foods promote faster recovery while warm fluids like tea soothe the sore throat.
6. Clip the child`s fingernails
This simple trick helps keep the child away from damaging the skin from itching.
7. Stay away from irritants
Avoiding irritants like cigarettes and cleaning supplies is of utmost importance, which is yet another reason to avoid smoking around the child.
8. Hydration
Hydration is vital when it comes to maintaining health. Drinking plenty of water and hot beverages is a good way to relieve a hoarse throat.
