Pharyngitis

Commonly known as a sore throat, pharyngitis is usually the result of a viral infection, such as the common cold, or a bacterial infection, most often Streptococcus.

Pharyngitis is characterized by rawness, scratchiness, and often swelling in the throat, sometimes accompanied by painful swallowing. On occasion, pharyngitis may be caused by a fungal infection or be a symptom of other diseases. Although usually not serious, pharyngitis that is accompanied by a fever, swollen lymph nodes, a rash, body aches or breathing difficulties should be diagnosed by a physician.

Sometimes when a patient has pharyngitis, the tonsils or adenoids are also inflamed.

Treatment Of Pharyngitis

Pharyngitis associated with the common cold requires no treatment other than bed rest, increased fluid intake and over-the-counter analgesics. Hot drinks and lozenges may provide alleviation of symptoms. When pharyngitis is caused by a bacterial infection, antibiotic treatment is necessary. A throat culture may be administered to pinpoint the pathogen causing the problem. If the sore throat results from a fungal infection, antifungal medication will be prescribed. Pharyngitis that is resistant to treatment or that becomes chronic requires further investigation, diagnosis and treatment.