Symptoms of pharyngitis include a burning sensation in the throat, dry cough, sore throat, difficulty swallowing, mild fever, headache, and general malaise. If the pharyngitis is caused by a bacterial infection, white or yellow patches or pus-filled surfaces may appear in the throat. Pharyngitis usually goes away on its own and can be relieved with supportive measures such as resting at home, drinking plenty of fluids, gargling, breathing moist air, and avoiding throat irritation. However, if symptoms are severe or prolonged or suggest an underlying health problem, it is important to consult a healthcare professional. The doctor will evaluate the symptoms and recommend antibiotics or other treatment options as needed.
What causes pharyngitis?
The symptoms caused by pharyngitis are often similar, but the causes may differ. If pharyngitis symptoms are prolonged or severe, they should be evaluated by a healthcare professional. Pharyngitis can have several causes. The most common causes are:
- Viral Infections: The most common cause of pharyngitis is viral infections. Especially upper respiratory tract infections such as colds and flu can lead to pharyngitis. These infections are usually caused by viruses and symptoms include sore throat, cough and runny nose.
- Bacterial Infections: Bacterial infections can also cause pharyngitis. In particular, a type of bacteria called streptococcus can cause an infection in the throat and cause symptoms such as sore throat, difficulty swallowing and fever. This type of bacterial infection is often called a streptococcal throat infection.
- Allergies: Some people develop pharyngitis symptoms when exposed to allergens. Allergic pharyngitis may occur in people who are particularly sensitive to allergens such as pollen, dust mites, pet dander or mold. In this case, symptoms such as irritation in the throat, itching, coughing and sneezing can be seen.
- Irritants: Exposure to irritants such as cigarette smoke, air pollution, chemical irritants, or excessive alcohol consumption can also cause pharyngitis. These substances irritate the throat and cause inflammation.
- Reflux: The backflow of stomach contents into the esophagus and rise into the throat can cause acidic stomach contents to irritate the throat and cause symptoms that can cause pharyngitis.
The symptoms of pharyngitis can vary from person to person and depending on the cause of pharyngitis. The symptoms of pharyngitis usually progress as follows:
- Sore throat: The most common symptom of pharyngitis is sore throat. There may be a burning, irritation or stinging sensation in the throat. The pain may become worse when swallowing or speaking.
- Cough: Pharyngitis usually causes a cough with dry or mild sputum. Cough occurs as a result of irritation in the throat.
- Swallowing Difficulty: Pharyngitis can cause difficulty swallowing or a feeling of discomfort due to inflammation and swelling in the throat. Difficulty swallowing food or saliva may occur.
- Redness and Swelling of the Throat: Pharyngitis can cause redness and swelling in the back of the throat. In this case, there may be a feeling of irritation and discomfort in the throat.
- Sound Changes: Pharyngitis can cause a deepening or hoarseness of the voice when the vocal cords are affected. There may be hoarseness or difficulty making a sound.
- General Fatigue: Because pharyngitis is a condition in which the body fights infection, general weakness, fatigue and lack of energy can occur.
- Mild Fever: Mild fever may be seen in some cases of pharyngitis. The fever is usually low grade, but higher fevers may occur in severe bacterial infections.
If pharyngitis symptoms persist or become severe for a long time, it is recommended to consult a healthcare professional. By evaluating the symptoms, the doctor can make the correct diagnosis and recommend appropriate treatment methods.
How does pharyngitis go?
Pharyngitis usually occurs due to viral or bacterial infections and in most cases it will heal on its own. There are some methods and applications that can be used for the treatment of pharyngitis. Things that are good for pharyngitis:
- Rest: The body needs rest to fight infection. You can promote recovery by limiting your activities and getting enough sleep.
- Fluid Consumption: Drinking plenty of water and other fluids keeps the throat moist by providing hydration. This helps the throat feel more comfortable and can relieve cough symptoms.
- Hot or Cold Application: Hot drinks or cold compresses can relieve a sore throat. You can use hot herbal teas, a warm salt water gargle, or ice chips.
- Gargling: Gargling with warm salt water can relieve throat irritation and help fight infection. For this, you can gargle by adding half a teaspoon of salt to a glass of warm water.
- Humid Air Breathing: Humid air can relieve irritation in the throat. You can get moist air by taking a hot shower or using a humidifier in the bathroom.
- Pain Relief and Inflammation Reducing Drugs: If your sore throat is severe, you can use pain relievers or anti-inflammatory drugs recommended by your doctor. However, you should consult your doctor before using these drugs.
- Avoiding Cigarettes and Irritants: Cigarette smoke, air pollution, and irritants can make pharyngitis worse. Therefore, you should avoid smoking and take care not to be exposed to irritants.
But remember, if pharyngitis symptoms are severe, persist for a long time, or cause other health problems, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional. Your doctor will recommend appropriate treatment methods for your condition.
You can benefit from natural and herbal methods to alleviate the symptoms of pharyngitis and support the healing process. These natural and herbal remedies can relieve symptoms and provide relief. However, if symptoms are severe or persist for a long time, it is important to consult a healthcare professional. Your doctor will recommend appropriate treatment methods. Some natural and herbal methods that are good for pharyngitis:
- Honey: Honey, which has a natural antiseptic property, can relieve a sore throat. You can have a soothing effect on your throat by mixing a teaspoon of honey with hot water or consuming it directly.
- Ginger: Ginger can relieve pharyngitis symptoms thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties. You can heal your throat by preparing ginger tea or chewing fresh ginger slices.
- Sage tea: Sage is known for its antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties. You can gargle by preparing sage tea or consume warm sage tea.
- Daisy: Chamomile has relaxing and soothing properties. You can gargle by preparing chamomile tea or massage your throat with chamomile oil.
- Propolis: Propolis is a natural compound produced by bees and has antibacterial properties. You can provide natural protection to your throat by using propolis lozenge or solution.
- Mint: Peppermint can relieve sore throat with its refreshing effect. You can heal your throat by preparing mint tea or chewing fresh mint leaves.
- Salt Water Gargle: Gargling with warm salt water can reduce inflammation in the throat. You can gargle by mixing a teaspoon of salt with warm water.
Pharyngitis is an infectious disease. Usually caused by viruses or bacteria, pharyngitis can be spread by coughing, sneezing, or by close contact with an infected person. Transmission occurs through contact with respiratory secretions. Viral pharyngitis associated with viruses is usually caused by respiratory infections such as the common cold or flu and is contagious. Viral pharyngitis can be spread by inhaling or contacting infected droplets in the air when coughing or sneezing.
Bacterial pharyngitis is also contagious. Bacteria called streptococcus cause an infection in the throat and are contagious. It can be spread through coughing, sneezing, or through items shared with an infected person. A person with pharyngitis should be especially careful to spread the infection and infect others. Taking precautions such as paying attention to hand hygiene, limiting close contact with infected individuals, covering the mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing, and cleaning of used items and surfaces can help reduce contagiousness. A person with symptoms of pharyngitis should avoid contact with others at work, school, or public areas and seek appropriate treatment until they recover.
How long does chronic pharyngitis last?
Chronic pharyngitis is a long-lasting and recurrent condition. Unlike acute pharyngitis, symptoms of chronic pharyngitis usually persist for 3 months or longer. Chronic pharyngitis is usually characterized by a persistent throat irritation, cough, sputum production, and a feeling of discomfort in the throat. The duration of chronic pharyngitis depends on many factors and can vary from individual to individual. Symptoms often fluctuate over time and can vary in severity. Chronic pharyngitis symptoms may be present continuously if treatment is not taken or the triggering factors are not controlled.
Chronic pharyngitis can be associated with various factors such as smoking, air pollution, exposure to allergens, reflux, sinusitis, and excessive alcohol consumption. Controlling these factors and applying appropriate treatment methods can help reduce symptoms and manage chronic pharyngitis. Treatment of chronic pharyngitis may include various methods to relieve symptoms, treat underlying causes, and prevent recurrence of symptoms. The course of treatment for pharyngitis varies depending on the individual situation and the severity of symptoms. A healthcare professional can determine the most appropriate modalities for the treatment of chronic pharyngitis and manage the course of treatment.
What happens if chronic pharyngitis is not treated?
If chronic pharyngitis is not treated, symptoms may persist and negatively affect quality of life. In addition, the progression of untreated chronic pharyngitis may lead to some complications. Here are the possible consequences if left untreated:
- Exacerbation of Symptoms: Chronic pharyngitis symptoms can worsen over time if left untreated. Throat irritation, coughing, sputum production, and discomfort may become more frequent and more severe.
- Sound Issues: Chronic pharyngitis can damage the vocal cords and lead to hoarseness, poor quality of voice, or complete loss of voice.
- Breathing Problems: With the progression of chronic pharyngitis, inflammation in the airways may increase and problems such as difficulty breathing, shortness of breath or wheezing may occur.
- Sinusitis or Ear Infections: Chronic pharyngitis can cause a constant inflammation of the nose and throat. This may increase susceptibility to other infections such as sinusitis (sinusitis) or ear infections.
- Swallowing Difficulty: Since chronic pharyngitis causes discomfort and irritation in the throat, swallowing may be difficult.
- Psychosocial Effects: Chronic pharyngitis symptoms can affect mood, as they create a constant feeling of discomfort and discomfort. Psychosocial problems such as insomnia, fatigue, irritability and depression may occur.
Untreated chronic pharyngitis can negatively affect quality of life and lead to the progression of health problems. Therefore, if you are experiencing symptoms of chronic pharyngitis, it is important to consult a healthcare professional and follow appropriate treatment methods. Your doctor will evaluate your symptoms and recommend the most appropriate treatment plan for you.