Most parents are aware of the problem created when doctors overprescribe antibiotics. This practice not only encourages bacterial resistance to antibiotics, but it also increases the odds that your child will become allergic to antibiotics. Because of this trend, the doctor may recommend deferring antibiotics if your child has a mild sinusitis or ear infection. It’s important to know, however, that strep throats are different. Because there is a risk of developing rheumatic fever with an untreated strep infection, doctors always treat strep throats. Therefore, if your child has symptoms of a strep throat or is acting sick and has been exposed to someone with strep, it is important to make an appointment to see your doctor.