Pharyngitis

Pharyngitis is a condition that is caused by infections due to viruses or bacteria. The pharyngitis is commonly known by the name of Sore Throat. It is commonly seen in all people. People may develop pharyngitis twice or thrice every year.

Pharyngitis or sore throat is found more among young children and teenagers. Younger children develop pharyngitis because the immunity level in them will not be high enough to fight against the bacteria and viruses that trigger the infection.

The infection is normally present for a period varying from three to seven days. So normally, medication is not required. The use of over the counter analgesics like paracetamol is advised for easing the symptoms associated with pharyngitis.

Symptoms

Pharyngitis is characterised by the presence of:

• tonsils which are swollen
• enlarged gland of the neck which are very tender
• the experiencing of a tender painful feeling on the throat’s back as well as
• discomfort while swallowing food

Some of the other symptoms which a person who has developed this infection will be similar to various other infectious condition that are very common. These symptoms are:

• presence of a very high temperature
• aches
• headaches as well as
• Weariness.

The doctor should be consulted only if;

• the symptoms are worse even after fourteen days
• the frequent attacks of pharyngitis does not improve with ibuprofen, paracetamol or aspirin or
• The person suffers from a lower level of immunity.

The medical advice should be requested urgently if:

• if the fever is over 38C
• if the person has difficulties in breathing
• difficulties while swallowing saliva and fluids or
• The person starts drooling.

Causes

The sore throat develops in a person normally due to infections from viruses and/or bacteria. The following conditions which commonly affect people can also give rise to a sore throat.

• Common cold
• Flu or influenza as well as
• Glandular fever.

Infections triggering sore throat can lead to swelling and inflammation in the

Oropharynx which is present at the throat’s back and
Tonsils.

The infection affecting tonsils is known commonly as tonsillitis. The infection is usually caused by the Streptococcus strain of bacteria. So the condition is also known as strep throat.

There are non-infectious triggers for sore throat. These are:

• gastro-oesophageal reflux
• irritation due to alcohol and smoking
• hay fever as well as
• certain cases of cancer.

Treatment

In general cases, pharyngitis fades off after three to seven days. One can use analgesics like paracetamol, aspirin or ibuprofen for easing the pain and fever which is associated with the sore throat. Take care not to give aspirin to children who are below sixteen years of age.

Generally antibiotics are not advised for pharyngitis as the infection may not have been caused by bacteria. Antibiotics like erythromycin are advised only if the patient has lower immunity level, heart disease, or if the infection is due to streptococcus bacteria.

If the child develops tonsillitis very frequently, then he/she may have to undergo tonsillectomy. Tonsillectomy is the surgical removal of the infected tonsils.