When our child is affected by an illness we want to find the right solution quickly so that he can regain his health. When scarlatina (also called "scarlet fever") strikes, characterized by a rash, itching and pain, we rush with frenzy to try to stop it. This frenzy has become more common since 2015, as there has been an enormous increase in cases of scarlet fever, caused by a new aggressive strain.
Fortunately, we have come a long way since the pre-antibiotic of the Middle Ages. Moreover, there are ways to treat both the symptoms and cure the infection.
How does scarlet fever affect children?
The Streptococcus bacterium (of the same genus which causes a streptococcus) infects children by secreting a toxin. Children who are susceptible to this bacteria will have a scarlet fever. As a result, they develop a rash similar to a sunburn on the face, neck, back and chest, while the area around the mouth is not affected.
After 6 days, the skin begins to flake in addition to other symptoms.
Common Symptoms
Scarlet fever is often accompanied by:
1. Red rash
2. Redness of the face
3. Sore Throat
4. Skin itching
5. Swollen neck glands.
6. High fever (38 - 39 ° C)
7. Abdominal pain
What can you do when a child has scarlet fever?
Scarlet fever is contagious, and you must limit your child's contact with friends, and his / her siblings. Separate his toothbrush and the cutlery he uses from those of the rest of the family to limit the spread of the infection. Also, your child should not go out until the infection disappears.
The medication protocol normally prescribed by doctors requires about 10 days of antibiotics. However, your child may improve faster than this, but still continue to give the medication. Wait 24 hours after symptoms disappear before returning to school.
It is essential to treat this bacterium because if it is not monitored, it can cause problems in the heart, kidneys and other parts.
If you want to treat the disease naturally and without drugs, here are some equally effective remedies:
Treating naturally the symptoms of scarlet fever
With such discomfort, your child is probably looking for some relief. For this, there are natural remedies that you should try before using dangerous painkillers:
1- Apple cider vinegar has many health benefits, including the ability to heal a sore throat by warming it, and adding a pinch of cayenne pepper. This vinegar consists of acetic acid, which also has the ability to treat infections in patients with burning. Put on a cotton fabric and apply it on the rash to reduce its effects.
2- Ingredients such as raw honey, raspberry leaves and mint added to hot water and consumed 2-3 times a day treat sore throats.
3- Water vapor and humidifiers are effective in protecting your child from dry air that causes coughing, further irritating the throat. Adding essential oils such as lavender oil will have an added benefit to reduce inflammation of the throat.
4- Lavender oil contains linalool (a type of alcohol) which allows it to reduce the symptoms of scarlet fever by moisturizing the dry rash and itching. To apply lavender oil, add 2% of a carrier oil such as olive or almond oil to treat the rash.
5- Cut your child's nails to prevent him from scratching deeply and damaging his skin due to itching.
6- The soups and teas: soups will help your child to have a good diet and therefore to heal quickly, while hot drinks, such as lemon-honey tea, will soothe his throat.
7- Hydration is necessary to maintain proper functioning of the body. Besides, drinking is an effective way to treat an irritated throat.
8- Keep your child away from irritants such as cleaning products and, of course, cigarette smoke. This is another good reason not to smoke.