Prevent, alleviate, or heal disease—naturally.
Consult with our health coaches who will learn about your symptoms, habits, and goals.
Take personalized home health tests to discover potential root causes of any symptoms or conditions you may have.
Review your results in just days with our functional medicine doctors, nurses, and dietitians who will help you achieve optimal health.
Scarlet fever, a condition many believe was left in the past, continues to affect individuals today, particularly children aged 5 to 15 years. This bacterial illness is characterized by a distinctive red rash and is a result of an infection with group A Streptococcus bacteria, the same bacteria responsible for strep throat. While not as common as it once was, thanks to antibiotics, understanding its natural treatment options can provide complementary pathways to healing and prevention.
Scarlet fever is caused when the Streptococcus bacteria release toxins in a susceptible individual, usually one who has recently had strep throat or skin infections like impetigo. Not everyone is vulnerable to these toxins; genetic factors play a significant role in determining susceptibility. Transmission occurs via respiratory droplets from an infected person or through contact with an infected person’s skin lesions.
- A red, sandpaper-like rash that starts on one part of the body and spreads - High fever (101°F or higher) - A red, sore throat with white patches - Difficulty swallowing - Swollen tonsils and lymph nodes - Strawberry-like appearance of the tongue - Headache - Nausea or vomiting - Body aches
Scarlet fever is diagnosed through a combination of clinical examination and testing. A healthcare professional might start with a physical examination, looking specifically for the characteristic rash and other signs. Throat swabs can be taken for rapid antigen detection tests (RADTs) or for culture to identify the presence of Streptococcus bacteria. In some cases, a blood test might also be performed to assess the severity and spread of the infection.
Preventing scarlet fever involves general hygiene measures, such as regular hand washing, using alcohol-based hand sanitizers, and avoiding close contact with infected individuals. Once diagnosed, the conventional treatment for scarlet fever is antibiotics to eradicate the bacteria, reduce symptoms duration, and minimize infectiousness. In terms of natural treatments and functional medicine, the approach focuses on supporting the immune system, managing symptoms, and preventing complications. Natural remedies may include: - Honey and lemon in warm water to soothe sore throats. - Apple cider vinegar gargles for its antibacterial properties. - Herbal teas like elderberry, echinacea, or ginger to boost the immune system. - Probiotics to restore the natural balance of gut bacteria, which can be disrupted by antibiotics and illness. - Adequate hydration and a balanced diet rich in vitamins A, C, and D, as well as zinc, to support the immune system. Nutritional supplements and herbal remedies should complement, not replace, the conventional treatment plan advised by a healthcare provider. Consulting with a professional experienced in functional medicine can provide personalized advice tailored to one’s specific health needs and conditions.