Next to colds, throat infections are the most common reason children see the doctor. It is important to realize, however, that young children do not know what it means when someone asks them if they have a sore throat. Therefore, if you are inquiring about this symptom, ask your child if it hurts when he swallows. You would be surprised how many children will say yes to this question even if they just told you they do not have a “sore throat.”