Swollen lymph nodes in the neck that are often painful
During an infection, lymph nodes swell up to enable the body to fight the infection. This is because the lymph nodes produce White blood cells that fight infections. The swelling is due to the increased production of white blood cells.
In strep throat, lymph nodes below the jaw, behind the ears, and neck region can swell.
It is important to note that having all of these symptoms doesn’t mean your child has strep throat. Several other viral respiratory infections produce the same symptoms as a strep throat infection. Some laboratory tests have to be done by your physician to confirm the presence of this disease.
Strep throat often resolves on its own. However, antibiotics help to reduce the duration of the infection. Most importantly, giving antibiotics help to checkmate the microorganisms so it does not cause any complication in later years. Some pain medications can be given to relieve the pain.
References:
[1] https://www.webmd.com/oral-health/understanding-strep-throat-symptoms
[2] https://kidshealth.org/en/parents/scarlet-fever.html