Does pharyngitis spread?

Written by Deng Bang Yu
Otolaryngology
Updated on September 22, 2024
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Pharyngitis refers to the acute and chronic inflammation of the pharyngeal mucosa, submucosal tissue, and local lymphatic tissue. Clinically, it mainly presents as a sore throat or a foreign body sensation in the throat, among other discomforts. Acute pharyngitis should be noted for its certain contagiousness, primarily due to viral infections, bacterial infections, or a combination of both, thus it is contagious. Appropriate precautions such as isolation measures, like wearing masks, should be considered. As for chronic pharyngitis, it is not contagious, so special isolation measures are not necessary. Regarding pharyngitis accompanying other diseases, such as reflux pharyngitis which may also involve Helicobacter pylori infection of the stomach, some literature reports suggest that Helicobacter pylori can be contagious during chronic pharyngitis, but this has not been fully confirmed and is only based on some reports. In summary, acute pharyngitis is confirmed to be contagious, while chronic pharyngitis is currently not contagious.

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Written by Li Rui
Otolaryngology
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Does acute pharyngitis cause fever?

Acute pharyngitis may cause a fever, but overall, the proportion of cases that develop a fever is relatively small. This is mainly because acute pharyngitis is caused by acute bacterial infections, with a small number of patients possibly experiencing concurrent acute viral infections leading to inflammation. Generally, the common symptoms include sudden onset of sore throat which may affect breathing or swallowing, such as a feeling of obstruction or a foreign body sensation in the throat. Some patients may experience fevers, typically seen in those with more severe inflammatory responses or who have been ill for a longer time without timely treatment. Generally, the fever is mild, though a small number of patients may experience high fever. The main treatment method is anti-infection therapy, and if the body temperature exceeds 38.5°C, it can be combined with antipyretic drugs. (Please consult a professional physician for medication use, and do not medicate blindly.)

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Written by Li Rui
Otolaryngology
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The difference between acute pharyngitis and chronic pharyngitis

The differentiation between acute pharyngitis and chronic pharyngitis mainly involves the following aspects: First, the onset duration. Generally, acute pharyngitis has a short onset, often sudden, and typically lasts about a week; whereas chronic pharyngitis tends to have a longer duration of illness, possibly involving repeated episodes, usually lasting from one to three months or more. Second, in terms of clinical symptoms, acute pharyngitis usually presents sudden onset of throat pain, which can be relatively severe; chronic pharyngitis may involve pain, but it is generally milder and recurrent, fluctuating, with some patients experiencing a sensation of a foreign body or itchiness in the throat. Third, it can be diagnosed through laryngoscopic examination.

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Written by Li Rui
Otolaryngology
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Symptoms of pharyngitis and cough

Pharyngitis is a relatively common otolaryngological disease with various clinical symptoms. Common symptoms include cough, phlegm, sore throat, and a foreign body sensation in the throat. A small number of patients may experience fever, swallowing obstruction, and difficulty breathing. Therefore, it is necessary to visit the otolaryngology department after the onset of symptoms. Routine blood tests and laryngoscopy can be performed to help determine the specific cause and severity of the condition. Targeted treatment can then be administered, generally considering oral medications and possibly complemented with nebulization therapy. Regular follow-ups are necessary during the treatment process to monitor the recovery of the condition.

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Written by Li Mao Cai
Otolaryngology
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Symptoms of acute pharyngitis

The symptoms of acute pharyngitis are multifaceted. Initially, the onset of the disease is quite sudden. The main symptoms start with dryness, heat, and liver pain, which is the most common description by patients. Furthermore, there is a sensation of a foreign object in the throat, leading to exacerbated pain when coughing. This pain is particularly noticeable during swallowing, making it difficult to even eat or swallow saliva. Additionally, this pain can radiate to the sides, commonly causing ear pain when chewing or eating, resulting in both throat and ear pain. Systemic symptoms can resemble those of a cold, such as mild fever, high body temperature, headache, loss of appetite, and general weakness.

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Written by Li Rui
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How to deal with chronic pharyngitis?

Chronic pharyngitis is a relatively common disease in otorhinolaryngology. First, it is necessary to assess the specific extent of inflammation. It is advisable to visit an otorhinolaryngology clinic for a laryngoscopic examination. If the inflammatory response is mild and personal symptoms are not particularly noticeable, regular follow-up and observation are generally recommended. Additionally, dietary control is necessary, including avoiding smoking, alcohol, and spicy or irritating foods. If the inflammatory response is significant and personal symptoms are severe, medical treatment should be considered. Currently, treatment mainly involves nebulization and oral administration of traditional Chinese medicines, along with self-regulation. Some patients may also consider traditional Chinese medicine treatments. (Medications should be used under the guidance of a doctor based on specific conditions.)