What is
herpangina?
Herpangina is a viral infection of the back
of the mouth.
The main symptoms include:
- sore throat and pain with swallowing
- fever for 2 to 3 days
- small ulcers (2 to 3 mm) surrounded by
a red ring on the roof of the mouth and near the
tonsils. There are no ulcers in the front of the mouth
or on the gums. The average child has 5 of these ulcers,
though there can be more.
What is the cause?
Herpangina is caused by several Coxsackie A
viruses. A person can have herpangina up to 5 times.
How long does
it last?
The sore throat and ulcers usually last 5 to
7 days.
How can I
take care of my child?
- Throat pain
relief
Children over age 1 can sip warm chicken
broth or apple juice. Children over age 4 can suck on
hard candy (butterscotch seems to be a soothing flavor)
or lollipops. Children over age 6 can gargle with warm
water containing a little table salt or antacid
solution.
- Diet
Offer a soft, bland diet to reduce the
pain. Cold drinks and milkshakes are especially good. Do
not give your child salty foods, citrus fruits, or foods
that need much chewing. Encourage your child to drink
favorite fluids to prevent dehydration. For very young
children, give fluids by cup rather than from a bottle
because the nipple can increase the pain.
- Fever and pain
relief
Give your child acetaminophen (Tylenol)
or ibuprofen (Advil) for the sore throat or for a fever
over 102°F (39°C).
- Common
mistakes to avoid
Avoid expensive throat sprays or throat
lozenges. Not only are they no more effective than hard
candy, but many also contain an ingredient (benzocaine)
that may cause an allergic reaction.
Antibiotics will not help a viral
infection.
When should I call my child's health care provider?
Call during office hours if:
- the pain becomes severe
- your child can't drink enough fluids
- the ulcers last longer than 10 days
- you feel your child is getting worse.
