Wednesday, March 27, 2024

Throat pain causes and infection

Throat  pain is a very distressing symptom especially when you are not able to eat or drink or swallow  saliva. The cause for throat pain can be various like infection, inflammation, ulcers inside the mouth or any lesions.
Infective causes are  viral, bacterial and fungal .Viral pharyngitis  usually accompanied by cold or coryza symptoms, body pain, chills, fever ( always need not be in this order).Those with long standing  tonsillitis issue may come with flare up of tonsillitis or membrane  over the tonsils. Viral pharyngitis need to be treated symptomatically.
Bacterial pharyngitis and tonsillitis usually caused by gram positive cocci  like streptococcus. Antibiotics are needed to control bacterial tonsillitis to prevent abscess formation ( collection of pus).
Fungal Infection  seen more in those with low immunity like Diabetes or those on immunosuppressive medication. 
Other causes are allergic reaction to food or drinks, it can cause  pain , itchy throat, swelling of pharynx especially uvula .
Chronic conditions like acid reflux or Sinusitis with post nasal discharge leads to throat pain which will be of long standing duration.

 Preventive measures 
Viral and bacterial Infection usually spread through nasal or oral route. Those with illness should wear mask while going out . Avoid overcrowded areas as it leads to rapid spread of upper respiratory Infections.
Eat healthy food,  adequate hydration ,maintain oral hygiene.

TREATMENT 
Depends on the findings, comorbidities . Analgesics to relieve the pain, gargling with salt water and betadine. Drink warm fluids. Antibiotics only if symptoms point towards bacterial infection. Don't self medicate, visit a nearby doctor.

Red flag signs 
Any choking sensation or breathing difficulties change in voice ( like hot potato voice) high fever with chills need immediate hospital visit.
If mouth ulcers or blister like lesions are the causes for throat pain, topical  cream   should be added according to the findings.
Eat healthy, adequate hydration, take rest, avoid travelling if you are sick .

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