Summary about Disease
Pharyngitis, commonly known as a sore throat, is an inflammation of the pharynx, which is located in the back of the throat. It can be caused by viral or bacterial infections, and sometimes by other irritants. Symptoms range from mild discomfort to severe pain, and treatment varies depending on the cause.
Symptoms
Sore throat
Pain while swallowing (odynophagia)
Redness in the back of the throat
Swollen tonsils (may have pus or white spots)
Hoarseness
Cough
Runny nose
Fever
Headache
Body aches
Swollen lymph nodes in the neck
Causes
Viruses: Common cold viruses (rhinovirus), influenza virus, adenovirus, Epstein-Barr virus (mononucleosis), measles, chickenpox, and herpes simplex virus.
Bacteria: Streptococcus pyogenes (strep throat), Group C and G streptococci, Corynebacterium diphtheriae, Arcanobacterium haemolyticum.
Other Irritants: Allergies, dry air, pollutants, smoking, acid reflux, tumors.
Medicine Used
Viral Pharyngitis: Primarily treated with supportive care, including pain relievers like acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), throat lozenges, and rest.
Bacterial Pharyngitis (e.g., Strep Throat): Antibiotics are prescribed, most commonly penicillin or amoxicillin. For penicillin allergies, alternatives like azithromycin or cephalexin are used.
Pain Relief: Topical anesthetics like throat sprays or lozenges containing benzocaine or phenol can provide temporary relief.
Is Communicable
Yes, pharyngitis is often communicable, especially when caused by viruses or bacteria. It spreads through respiratory droplets produced by coughing, sneezing, or talking. Direct contact with contaminated surfaces can also lead to infection.
Precautions
Frequent Handwashing: Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after coughing, sneezing, or touching surfaces in public areas.
Avoid Touching Face: Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth to prevent the transfer of germs.
Cover Mouth and Nose: Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing, and dispose of the tissue properly. If a tissue isn't available, cough or sneeze into your elbow.
Avoid Sharing Personal Items: Avoid sharing utensils, cups, towels, and other personal items.
Stay Home When Sick: If you have symptoms of pharyngitis, stay home from work or school to prevent spreading the infection.
Social Distancing: Maintain distance from others, especially those who are sick.
Disinfect Surfaces: Regularly disinfect frequently touched surfaces such as doorknobs, light switches, and countertops.
How long does an outbreak last?
Viral Pharyngitis: Typically lasts 3-10 days.
Bacterial Pharyngitis (Strep Throat): With antibiotic treatment, symptoms usually improve within 1-2 days, and the infection is no longer contagious after 24 hours of antibiotic use. Without antibiotics, it can last longer and lead to complications.
How is it diagnosed?
Physical Examination: A doctor will examine the throat, tonsils, and neck for signs of inflammation and swelling.
Rapid Strep Test: A swab of the throat is taken to detect the presence of Streptococcus bacteria. Results are usually available within minutes.
Throat Culture: A more accurate test than the rapid strep test, but results take 24-48 hours.
Monospot Test: If mononucleosis is suspected, a blood test can be performed to detect the presence of the Epstein-Barr virus.
Timeline of Symptoms
Viral Pharyngitis: Symptoms may appear gradually over 1-3 days. Sore throat usually peaks within 2-3 days, then gradually improves over the next few days. Other cold-like symptoms may persist for up to 10 days.
Bacterial Pharyngitis (Strep Throat): Symptoms often appear more abruptly, within 1-2 days. Sore throat is typically severe and accompanied by fever, headache, and sometimes nausea or vomiting. With antibiotics, symptoms usually improve significantly within 24-48 hours.
Important Considerations
Seek Medical Attention: It's crucial to see a doctor if you suspect strep throat, as untreated strep infections can lead to serious complications, such as rheumatic fever or kidney disease.
Complete Antibiotic Course: If prescribed antibiotics, it's important to complete the entire course, even if you start feeling better, to ensure the infection is completely eradicated.
Differentiating Viral vs. Bacterial: It can be difficult to distinguish between viral and bacterial pharyngitis based on symptoms alone. A throat swab is often necessary to confirm the diagnosis.
Complications: Although rare, complications of pharyngitis can include peritonsillar abscess, retropharyngeal abscess, and, in the case of strep throat, rheumatic fever or glomerulonephritis.