Pharyngitis

Pharyngitis is an inflammation of the back of the throat, or pharynx. It is a common disorder that can result in a sore throat, discomfort, and difficulty swallowing. Many reasons, including viral and bacterial infections, allergies, and environmental irritants, can cause pharyngitis. This page gives an overview of pharyngitis, including its causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention.

Streptococcal pharyngitis

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Pharyngitis

Viral pharyngitis

Mononucleosis

Causes

Several factors may contribute to pharyngitis: "'Viral diseases"': The most prevalent cause of pharyngitis is viral infection, with rhinovirus being the most frequent offender. The influenza virus, adenovirus, and Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), which causes mononucleosis, can also cause pharyngitis. "'Infections with bacteria"': Despite being less prevalent than viral infections, bacterial infections can nonetheless cause pharyngitis. The most prevalent bacterial cause is Streptococcus pyogenes, which causes streptococcal pharyngitis or "strep throat." As part of a allergic rhinitis response, allergic reactions to pollen, mold, pet dander, or other allergens can induce pharyngitis. Environmental irritants: Tobacco smoke, air pollution, and chemical vapors can induce irritation and inflammation of the pharynx.

Symptoms

• Depending on the underlying cause, the symptoms of pharyngitis might vary, but commonly include:
• painful throat
• discomfort or pain during swallowing
• Red, swollen pharynx
• neck lymph nodes that are swollen
• Fever (more common with bacterial illnesses) (more common with bacterial infections)
• Headache
• Fatigue
• loss of hunger

Diagnosis

Typically, pharyngitis is diagnosed based on a physical examination and a study of the patient's symptoms. A throat swab may also be performed to detect the presence of bacteria or viruses, especially "Streptococcus pyogenes". In some instances, additional testing may be required to rule out the possibility of other conditions, such as mononucleosis or influenza.

Treatment

Pharyngitis treatment relies on the underlying cause. There is no specific treatment for viral pharyngitis because antibiotics are ineffective against viruses. The treatment focuses on symptom relief and may include over-the-counter painkillers, throat lozenges, or warm saltwater gargles. If pharyngitis is caused by a bacterial infection, such as strep throat, medications are usually prescribed to treat the infection. Even if symptoms improve, it is essential to finish the full course of antibiotics to prevent complications or a recurrence of the illness. Allergic pharyngitis may be treated with antihistamines, decongestants, or nasal corticosteroids in order to manage allergy symptoms. Avoiding environmental irritants such as tobacco smoke and air pollution can help prevent or treat irritant-induced pharyngitis.

Prevention

• Reducing exposure to potential causes is essential for pharyngitis prevention:
• Maintain proper hygiene by often washing your hands and avoiding close contact with people who have colds or other respiratory illnesses.
• Avoid smoking and secondhand smoke exposure.
• Treat allergies with the proper medications and by minimizing allergen exposure.
• Adopt a healthy lifestyle, which includes frequent exercise, a well-balanced diet, and adequate rest, to promote a robust immune system.

Complications

• Despite the fact that pharyngitis is normally a mild and self-limiting ailment, problems can occasionally emerge, especially in the case of bacterial infections like strep throat. Possible complications consist in:
• Tonsillitis is the inflammation and infection of the tonsils; Sinusitis is the inflammation and infection of the sinuses; Otitis media is the inflammation and infection of the middle ear; Peritonsillar abscess is an abscess that forms around the tonsils. An accumulation of pus near the tonsils caused by rheumatic fever: Scarlet fever is a rare but severe consequence of untreated strep throat that can harm the heart, joints, and other organs. Rash induced by a toxin generated by certain "Streptococcus pyogenes" strains.

See Also

• Tonsillitis
• Strep throat
• Influenza
• Mononucleosis

Pharyngitis Resources
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References

• Mayo Clinic - Sore Throat
• CDC - Strep Throat
• WebMD - Pharyngitis