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Scarlet
Fever
Scarlet Fever is an
infectious bacterial disease.
What to look for
Scarlet fever occurs most
frequently in children. Its symptoms include:
Scarlet fever is a
childhood disease that was once fatal and now has been controlled by antibiotics.
It usually starts with a
very high fever. Next a distinctive scarlet rash appears, first on the neck and chest and
then all over the body. The tongue also becomes swollen and turns bright red. After three
days the rash and fever usually disappear, but the tongue may remain swollen for several
more days.
You must take your child to
the doctor if you suspect he or she has this disease.
Causes
Scarlet fever is a
contagious infection that is caused by streptococcal bacteria. It is spread by contact
with an infected person or inhalation of the bacteria.
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Traditional Treatment
Unless treated with
antibiotics, scarlet fever can have serious complications. As well as taking antibiotics,
your child should get plenty of bed rest and drink lots of fruit juice to flush out
his/her system.
Alternative/Natural
Treatments
A child with scarlet fever
must take an antibiotic to kill the infection. Other remedies may help to reduce symptoms
and help him or her recover.
Aromatherapy
- Lemongrass in a vaporiser or
in a carrier oil and applied through a massage can help reduce any fever. Lemongrass in a vaporiser or
in a carrier oil and applied through a massage can help reduce any fever.
Herbal
Therapies - Catnip contains
chemicals that are thought to reduce fever. Catnip contains
chemicals that are thought to reduce fever.
Echinacea and tea
tree oil may help combat the bacteria, ease the rash, and help clear chest congestion.
Homeopathy
- Use only one of the following, and only when prescribed by a Professional.
Ailanthus glandulosa - if an irregular shaped, livid red rash is applicable, that
disappears when touched.
Apis mellifica if the sufferer has a rosy red skin that is sensitive and sore,
breaks into sweat often.
Belladonna when the skin is bright red
and dry. The child may be delirious and have a rapid heart rate. Pupils will be dilated. Use only one of the following, and only when prescribed by a Professional.
Ailanthus glandulosa - if an irregular shaped, livid red rash is applicable, that
disappears when touched.
Apis mellifica if the sufferer has a rosy red skin that is sensitive and sore,
breaks into sweat often.
Belladonna when the skin is bright red
and dry. The child may be delirious and have a rapid heart rate. Pupils will be dilated.
Dietary
Considerations
Proper nutrition boosts the
body's immune system and helps it fight infection. Citrus juices and other fluids will
help flush the bacteria out of the system
Prevention
Stay away and keep your
child away from people who have scarlet fever.
When to seek further
professional advice
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