As a mother, it's normal to be scared if your little one suddenly develops a red rash, along with a fever and sore throat. Sometimes, these rashes can feel rough, like sandpaper, when you touch them. These symptoms often indicate a condition called Scarlet Fever . Don't worry, we'll talk about everything clearly and simply.
Simply put, what is Scarlet Fever?
Scarlet Fever is a disease caused by a bacterial infection. The bacteria that causes it is a type of bacteria called Group A Streptococcus . When you hear this name, you probably think, yes, this is the same bacteria that causes a common throat infection , that is, "Strep Throat."
Now you might be wondering, how does this happen? It's very simple. When this bacteria enters our body, especially the throat, sometimes a toxin is released from that bacteria into our blood. That toxin causes red, rough rashes all over the body. That's why it's called Scarlet Fever.
This disease is most common in children between the ages of 5 and 15. But that doesn't mean adults can't get it. Anyone who is exposed to this bacteria can get it.
What are the symptoms of this disease?
The main symptom of Scarlet Fever is the red rash that appears on the body. But there are several other symptoms in addition to that. Let's see what they are.
| Symptom | A simple explanation |
|---|---|
| Red, rough patches (Sandpaper Rash) | It starts first on the neck and chest and spreads all over the body. Sometimes it can look like a sunburn. When you touch it, it feels rough like sandpaper. Sometimes these lesions can itch. |
| Fever and chills | You may get a high fever, and at the same time, you may feel shivery and cold. |
| Sore throat | The throat becomes red and painful. You may also see white spots in the throat. |
| Strawberry Tongue | At first, a white coating forms on the tongue, which disappears in about two days, leaving the tongue red and rough, like a strawberry. |
| Other features | Symptoms such as swollen lymph nodes in the neck, headaches, body aches, stomach aches, vomiting, loss of appetite, and difficulty swallowing may also occur. |
The most important thing is that after these lesions disappear, some children will start to lose skin on their hands and feet. This can last for several weeks. This is part of the disease, so there is no need to worry.
How is this disease transmitted?
Yes, Scarlet Fever is a contagious disease .
Imagine if one child in a school class gets sick, the others can easily be infected through the droplets that are released when they cough or sneeze . Also, the disease can be spread by touching objects such as plates, cups, and toys that the patient has used.
Symptoms usually begin to appear between 2 and 5 days after the pathogenic bacteria enter the body.
How does a doctor diagnose this?
If you or your child has a sore throat, fever, and body aches, see a doctor immediately . The doctor will first examine you thoroughly.
- Physical examination : The doctor will check for any injuries on the body, the condition of the throat, and whether the lymph nodes in the neck are swollen.
- Throat Swab: To confirm the diagnosis, the doctor will use a swab to collect a small amount of secretions from the throat and tonsils for testing.
- Rapid Strep Test: Sometimes this test can be done in just a few minutes and gives results. It can quickly determine whether or not Group A Strep bacteria is present.
It is very important to do these tests because there may be other diseases that cause similar symptoms. Therefore, it is essential to accurately diagnose the disease and get the right treatment.
How is it treated? What should we do at home?
Since Scarlet Fever is a bacterial infection, the main treatment for this is antibiotics . It is extremely important to give the child the antibiotics prescribed by the doctor for the full course of treatment, without missing a single day. Even if the fever and discomfort subside within a day or two of starting the medication, the medication should be given for the full number of days prescribed. Failure to do so may cause the disease to recur and serious complications may occur.
In addition to antibiotics, you can do these things at home to help your child feel better:
- Painkillers: Paracetamol or ibuprofen can be given for fever and body aches as directed by your doctor. Do not give aspirin to children and young people for any reason.
- Fluids: Give plenty of fluids, such as warm soups, porridge, and fruit juices. This can help prevent dehydration.
- Soft foods: Give soft foods that are easy to swallow (rice, yogurt, pudding) and cool things like ice pops because the throat is sore.
- Salt water: Gargling with warm salt water can help relieve a sore throat.
- Good rest: Make sure the child gets good rest.
- For itching: If you are scratching, keep your nails short. You can use an anti-itch cream as directed by your doctor.
Can complications occur?
Scarlet Fever rarely causes complications if treated properly. However, if left untreated or if the course of antibiotics is not completed, the bacteria can spread to other parts of the body and cause problems.
For example, serious conditions such as kidney damage, arthritis, and rheumatic fever, which affects the heart, can occur. That's why we repeatedly say to take the antibiotics your doctor prescribes exactly for the full duration .
When to see a doctor immediately
If any of the following symptoms are present, take the child to a hospital or doctor immediately. If necessary, go to the Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU).
- Difficulty breathing (if your chest goes in when you breathe, if your nostrils get bigger).
- Voice changes when speaking, inability to open the mouth fully.
- Persistent vomiting or diarrhea.
- Signs of dehydration (dry mouth, not urinating for more than 8 hours).
- Severe drowsiness, confusion.
Take-Home Message
- Scarlet Fever is an infectious disease caused by the same bacteria that causes Strep Throat.
- The main symptoms are a red, rough rash, like sandpaper, fever, and sore throat.
- If you have symptoms like these, be sure to see a doctor to confirm the disease.
- The treatment is antibiotics. It is essential to take the full course of medication prescribed by the doctor without missing a single day.
- Serious complications are very rare if proper treatment is received. So don't panic and act correctly.
- Don't think that just because you've had this disease once, it won't happen again. It can happen again.
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