Do you accept Florida Medicaid?

Yes. Lake Worth Pediatrics accepts most Florida Medicaid plans and many major insurance providers. Visit our Insurance & Billing page for full coverage details.

Do you offer same-day sick visits in Palm Springs?

Yes. We provide same-day pediatric sick visits in Palm Springs to ensure your child receives timely medical care when needed.

What areas do you serve?

We serve families in Palm Springs, Lake Worth, Greenacres, Boynton Beach, West Palm Beach, and surrounding Palm Beach County communities.

What languages do you speak?

Our team provides care in English, Spanish, and Haitian Creole so every family feels confident and fully understood.

Strep Throat In Children

What is Strep Throat?

Strep throat is a bacterial infection caused by Group A Streptococcus (Strep A). It primarily affects the throat and tonsils, causing pain and inflammation. Unlike viral sore throats, strep throat requires antibiotic treatment to prevent complications.

Signs & Symptoms

Sore throat (often severe and sudden)
Pain when swallowing
Fever (101°F or higher)
Red, swollen tonsils (sometimes with white patches or pus)
Swollen lymph nodes (tender lumps in the neck)
Headache, stomach pain, or nausea
Loss of appetite

Symptoms NOT typical of strep throat:

Cough, runny nose, hoarseness, or congestion (these suggest a viral infection, not strep).

How is Strep Throat Diagnosed?

A rapid strep test or throat culture is needed to confirm the diagnosis. Your child’s pediatrician will swab the throat and test for the presence of strep bacteria.Our experienced pediatric team in Palm Springs is here to help with same-day appointments when your child isn’t feeling well.

Treatment

Antibiotics (usually amoxicillin or penicillin) – Prescribed if the test is positive.
After 24 hours on antibiotics – Your child is no longer contagious and can return to school if they feel better.
Finish the full course of antibiotics even if symptoms improve early.

Home Care for Comfort

Give acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Motrin) for throat pain and fever — always follow the correct dosage based on your child’s age and weight. You can reference our Pediatric Medication Dosage Chart here.
Encourage fluids (water, warm tea, broth, popsicles) to keep the throat moist.
Soft foods (yogurt, mashed potatoes, smoothies) are easier to eat.
Gargling warm salt water (for kids old enough) can soothe the throat.
Use a humidifier to keep air moist and ease discomfort.

When to Call the Pediatrician

Seek medical care if your child has:

Difficulty breathing or swallowing
Drooling excessively (could indicate a more serious throat infection)
Persistent high fever (102°F+) despite medication
No improvement after 48 hours on antibiotics

Preventing Strep Throat

Good handwashing is key to preventing the spread.
Keep toothbrushes separate and replace them after infection.
Avoid sharing cups, utensils, or food with others.

Most children recover within a few days with proper treatment. If you have any concerns, call your pediatrician! For more helpful tips on managing common childhood illnesses, check out our Parent Resources section.