Without doubt, when children catch some disease, parents try their best to find an adequate solution and improve their health. One such illness is scarlet fever which is manifested by unpleasant symptoms, including rashes, itchy skin, and sore throat.
Since 2015, there has been an exponential rise of children being infected with this disease which is caused by an aggressive strain, as explained on The Hearty Soul. Luckily, there have been new methods developed with the goal to alleviate the symptoms and put an end to the infection.
How One Gets Scarlet Fever?
Streptococcus bacteria, the bacteria that cause strep throat, are also known to infect children through the release of a toxin. So, the children who are prone to this strain also catch the disease and develop rashes on the facial area, the neck, back, and the chest. The area surrounding the mouth is not affected. After a period of six days, the child’s skin begins to shed and other symptoms may also occur, for example, sore throat, itchiness, flushed face, red rashes, swollen neck, belly pain, and fever.
Treatment for Scarlet Fever
Since the illness is contagious, as noted on The Hearty Soul, parents need to limit the child’s contact with friends, siblings, and relatives. Their toothbrushes and cutlery should also be placed in a separate bag or away from the other family members’ possessions in order to avert the spreading. Until the child is cured, he/she should not go outside.
The therapy for scarlet fever is comprised of antibiotics for a period of 10 days. Even though the child may feel better sooner, the antibiotics should still be given. Before sending them back to kindergarten or school, make sure 24 hours have passed without symptoms. If left untreated, the bacteria may lead to kidney and heart complications.
How to Naturally Treat Scarlet Fever
To bring relief from the uncomfortable symptoms, you can incorporate some of these natural remedies to your child’s therapy:
- Raw honey, mint, and raspberry leaf tea two to three times per day can alleviate the sore throat
- Warm apple cider vinegar mixed with some cayenne pepper can help address the sore throat. Apple cider vinegar may also help with the infection. Apply some of it on a cotton cloth and place it gently onto the rashes to minimize the discomfort and pain
- Make sure you cut the child’s fingernails to avert them from additional skin damage caused by excessive itching
- The child’s should not be in a room where there are cleaning supplies or smokers
- Remember to give the child sufficient amounts of water and herbal tea to keep them well-hydrated
- The child’s diet should also include tea, soup, and soft foods during this period to advance the healing process
- You can use lavender essential oil to moisturize the dry and itchy rashes
- Using an air humidifier will help protect the child from dry air which is known to trigger coughing and will further irritate their throat; add some lavender oil to the humidifier for additional healing benefit
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