Pharyngitis or sore throat is an inflammation of the pharynx that causes intense pain, being more of a symptom than an actual condition. Pharyngitis is caused by viral or bacterial infections, which can affect speech and swallowing. As a rule, viral pharyngitis disappears in a few days. It can lead to inflammation of the lymph nodes and fever, with the alteration of the state of health, situations in which appropriate treatment is necessary, prescribed by the specialist doctor, after establishing a diagnosis.
We have identified and will continue to present the most effective pharyngitis treatments that you can use to treat this common problem. If the symptoms worsen, the visit to the doctor should not be postponed.
What is pharyngitis?
Pharyngitis is an inflammation of the mucous membranes lining the back of the throat or pharynx. Pharyngitis is the medical term used for sore throat that occurs when the pharynx, the organ through which food passes into the esophagus and air passes into the trachea, is inflamed.
As a rule, pharyngitis is manifested by discomfort, dryness and difficulty in swallowing and is considered a common problem in all age groups, which is not a cause for concern. The frequency of this medical condition, as well as the intensity of the manifestations, could provide the necessary data to the specialist doctor to identify the cause, so that you receive appropriate help. (1)
Continue reading the article to find out how pharyngitis can be treated, what are the natural remedies and alternative options that can relieve your unpleasant symptoms.
Types of pharyngitis
The main types of pharyngitis:
• viral – caused by viruses;
• bacterial – caused by bacteria.
Pharyngitis is caused by viral and/or bacterial infections, such as colds and flu, or strep infection. However, pharyngitis sometimes occurs in association with another viral infection, mononucleosis. (2)
Ways of transmission of pharyngitis
Both types of pharyngitis, viral and bacterial, are highly contagious, the germs that cause this problem live in the nose and throat. That is why infection is possible quite easily, and pharyngitis can spread like this:
• by inhaling the tiny droplets that reach the air after a person with pharyngitis coughs or sneezes;
• by direct contact with contaminated objects;
• by consuming contaminated food and drinks.
Because there is an incubation period, people can be contagious for several days before the first symptoms appear. Uncomplicated pharyngitis passes in 7-10 days. (1)
Treatment options in pharyngitis
Pharmaceutical treatment
Viral pharyngitis can resolve itself and does not require specific treatment, a mild pain reliever can be given to relieve pain and control fever, but only with the doctor’s recommendation. Antibiotics are not useful for treating viral infection.
In bacterial pharyngitis, the correct treatment is with antibiotics. It must be followed as directed, both in terms of number of days and dosages, for complete healing to occur. (2. 3)
Home remedies
• Optimum hydration to prevent dehydration and dry throat;
• Avoiding caffeine and alcohol, which promote the elimination of water from the body;
• Maintaining the air in the room in conditions of adequate humidity, so you can use a humidifier;
• Quality rest to more easily get over the shock felt by the body;
• Gargle with salt water;
• Avoidance of irritating factors.
The most important thing to prevent the spread of infection is to isolate yourself at home until you feel better and at least 24 hours have passed since the last dose of antibiotics to protect yourself and those around you.
Alternative treatments
The medicinal treatment prescribed by the specialist must be a priority. Sometimes he can also indicate some natural remedies or herbal products as an adjuvant for optimal results. It is ideal to take such products only at the request of the specialist to avoid interactions or adverse effects that any product can generate in the human body. (1), (3)
This article about pharyngitis and the effective treatment of this health problem is strictly informative. If you experience a sore throat or fever, go to the doctor for a specialist diagnosis and appropriate treatment, and don’t forget to follow his instructions exactly!
Information sources:
1. What is pharyngitis? – https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/324144
2. Pharyngitis – https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/pharyngitis#:~:text=Pharyngitis%20%E2%80%94%20commonly%20known%20as%20sore,symptom%2C%20rather%20than%20a%20condition.
3. Sore throat –
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2023-07-31 07:45:50
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