Acute pharyngitis

Acute Pharyngitis is an inflammation of the pharynx, which is located in the back of the throat. It is commonly referred to as a sore throat. Acute pharyngitis can be caused by a variety of factors, including viral and bacterial infections, allergies, and environmental irritants.

Causes

The most common cause of acute pharyngitis is a viral infection, such as the common cold or influenza. Bacterial infections, such as Streptococcus pyogenes, can also cause acute pharyngitis. Other causes can include allergies, dry air, pollution, smoking, and exposure to chemical irritants.

Symptoms

Symptoms of acute pharyngitis can include a sore throat, difficulty swallowing, redness or swelling of the throat, fever, headache, and swollen lymph nodes in the neck. In some cases, individuals may also experience a runny or stuffy nose, cough, fatigue, and body aches.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of acute pharyngitis typically involves a physical examination and a review of the individual's medical history. In some cases, a throat swab may be taken to test for bacterial infections.

Treatment

Treatment for acute pharyngitis depends on the cause. For viral infections, treatment typically involves rest, hydration, and over-the-counter remedies to alleviate symptoms. For bacterial infections, antibiotics may be prescribed. It is important to complete the full course of antibiotics to prevent complications or recurrence of the infection.

Prevention

Prevention strategies for acute pharyngitis include practicing good hygiene, such as regular hand washing, avoiding close contact with individuals who are sick, and avoiding irritants such as smoke and chemicals.

See Also

• Tonsillitis
• Strep throat
• Common cold
• Influenza