Symptoms of pharyngitis

Written by Li Rui
Otolaryngology
Updated on September 13, 2024
00:00
00:00

Pharyngitis is a relatively common throat disease, which has various clinical symptoms and individual differences. Common symptoms include repeated sore throat, a sensation of a foreign body in the throat, and possibly acid reflux and burping. Overall, the symptoms are diverse and vary from person to person. In terms of treatment, it usually begins with a laryngoscopy to visually assess the extent of inflammation in the throat. Blood tests are also recommended to determine whether the infection is bacterial or viral. Once the type of infection is confirmed, targeted anti-infection treatment can be considered. This can be supplemented with nebulization and the oral administration of proprietary Chinese medicines, which help in treatment. However, regular follow-up examinations are necessary after treatment, as some patients may experience recurrent and fluctuating symptoms. (Specific medications should be used under the guidance of a doctor.)

Other Voices

doctor image
home-news-image
Written by Deng Bang Yu
Otolaryngology
1min home-news-image

What department should I visit for pharyngitis?

Pharyngitis is a common and frequent disease in otolaryngology head and neck surgery, so it is primarily necessary to visit the department of otolaryngology head and neck surgery for diagnosis and treatment. In hospitals with more specialized departments, one can also directly visit the pharyngology department for diagnosis and treatment. It is important to understand that there are many causes of pharyngitis, such as gastroesophageal reflux disease. Besides seeing an otolaryngologist, it might also be necessary to consult with gastroenterology or thoracic surgery, as these are related departments. If the pharyngitis is caused by an allergic disease and involves allergic factors, in addition to visiting otolaryngology, it may be necessary to consult other departments such as the department of allergic diseases or respiratory medicine, depending on the specific circumstances. In summary, the primary department to consult for pharyngitis is otolaryngology head and neck surgery.

doctor image
home-news-image
Written by Zhang Jun
Otolaryngology
1min 3sec home-news-image

How long does acute pharyngitis take to heal on its own?

Acute pharyngitis usually heals on its own in about 10 days under normal circumstances. Acute pharyngitis is caused by viral or bacterial infection following weakened immunity and resistance. Symptoms include sudden onset of high fever with temperatures above 38.5°C, severe throat pain, hoarse voice, and a barking cough. In severe cases, the patient may experience suffocation and even death. Acute pharyngitis is more common in children, whose throat mucosa is relatively loose, making it especially prone to swelling during inflammatory infections. In treatment, the patient first needs a routine blood test. If there is an increase in white blood cells, it suggests a bacterial infection, and oral antibiotics are required. If lymphocytes are increased, it indicates a viral infection, and the patient can be treated with oral ribavirin granules, which are effective. (The use of medications should be under the guidance of a doctor.)

doctor image
home-news-image
Written by Li Rui
Otolaryngology
50sec home-news-image

Does pharyngitis have phlegm?

Pharyngitis presents with a variety of symptoms. Some patients may experience phlegm, along with coughing, sore throat, and a foreign body sensation in the throat. Some may also have difficulty swallowing, fever, and difficulty breathing. There is significant individual variation in specific clinical symptoms. After onset, it is advisable to visit an otolaryngologist. Routine blood tests and laryngoscopy can be performed to help initially determine the specific cause and extent of the condition. Most patients can consider oral medication treatment, and can also combine this with nebulization. During the treatment process, regular follow-up examinations are needed to observe the treatment effects. (Specific medications should be taken under the guidance of a physician.)

doctor image
home-news-image
Written by Yao Jun
Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery
45sec home-news-image

How to treat acute pharyngitis?

Acute pharyngitis is the acute inflammation of the mucosa and submucosal tissues of the pharynx, and it often comes with systemic symptoms. For patients without systemic symptoms or those who have mild symptoms, local treatments such as mouthwash with cleaning and sterilizing effects, various lozenges, or traditional Chinese medicine can be used. Through oral antiviral drugs or antibiotics, severe systemic symptoms such as high fever require bed rest, plenty of fluids, and soft foods. Antiviral drugs or antibiotics can be administered through the meridian pathways. If the patient has a high fever, physical methods to reduce fever can be used, as well as corticosteroids for reducing temperature.

doctor image
home-news-image
Written by Li Rui
Otolaryngology
51sec home-news-image

Can you drink alcohol with pharyngitis?

People with pharyngitis should not drink alcohol, as pharyngitis is mainly divided into two types: chronic pharyngitis and acute pharyngitis. Both types should avoid alcohol consumption. Alcohol can significantly irritate the mucous membranes of the throat, especially in cases with existing inflammation. Drinking alcohol can directly stimulate the mucous membranes of the throat, causing redness, pain, and potentially triggering an acute episode of pharyngitis or exacerbating the existing inflammatory response. In general, it is necessary to seek timely treatment for pharyngitis, along with regular follow-up exams. Diet management is important, and patients should avoid smoking, drinking alcohol, and consuming spicy or irritating foods. Regular laryngoscope check-ups are recommended to monitor changes.