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Numerous factors can lead to throat pain, and each cause requires appropriate treatment.
There are many reasons for sore throats, including bacteria, viruses, streptococcal infection, other allergies, smoking, polluted air, and alcohol consumption. The treatment for throat pain varies depending on its source and underlying cause.
Pharyngitis occurs when the tonsils at the back of the throat become inflamed, leading to a painful throat. This inflammation can be primarily viral but may also result from bacterial infections.
Symptoms of pharyngitis include:
Streptococcus is a type of bacteria that, when present in the throat, causes infection and pain. It is not always easy to distinguish streptococcal throat infection from other causes of throat pain. It is crucial to consult a doctor and treat streptococcal throat infection to prevent complications, especially in the heart.
Diagnosing streptococcal throat infection is done through throat swabs.
Infectious mononucleosis is caused by either the CMV or EBV viruses. It is essential to note that CMV infection can harm fetuses if active during pregnancy.
Symptoms of infectious mononucleosis include:
Diagnosis is made through blood tests, with results available after several days. Recommended treatment includes rest and avoiding strenuous activities. You can also take pain and fever relievers.
Allergic rhinitis can also cause throat pain when nasal discharge accumulates in the throat. Usually, during hay fever outbreaks, nasal discharge is clear.
Treatment for allergic rhinitis can involve antiallergic medications or addressing the congestion. Antibiotics are not necessary.
The treatment for sore throats depends on its underlying cause:
You can take over-the-counter pain relievers, drink plenty of fluids, including warm tea with honey or lemon, suck on lozenges or throat drops, gargle with warm salt water (a teaspoon of salt in a cup of water), and use a humidifier.
Most cases do not require tonsil removal surgery. Only in cases of recurrent bacterial infections or when the tonsils are extremely enlarged and interfere with breathing should the possibility be considered in consultation with the treating physician.
