Throat Problems
Throat Disorders
Oral Health: Mouth & Throat Medical Conditions
Throat Symptoms - Symptoms, Causes, Treatments
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What are the signs of throat problems? What causes throat symptoms? What are the potential complications of throat symptoms? What is the Pharynx and Tonsils? What is the function of the pharynx? Oral pharyngeal disorders What human anatomy should one know relevant to this medical condition? How is it diagnosed? What is the treatment? |
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What are the signs of throat problems? Throat symptoms can vary greatly in character and severity depending on the underlying disease, disorder or condition. Common throat symptoms include: •Change in voice, such as muffled or altered speech or hoarseness •Dry throat •Feelings of itchiness or tickling in the throat •Persistent irritation •Phlegm or mucus buildup due to postnasal drip, infection, or inflammation •Sore throat •Swallowing problems, such as difficulty swallowing (dysphagia) or painful swallowing (odynophagia) •Swollen tonsils •Throat lumps or growths •Throat pain •White patches on the tonsils and throat What causes throat symptoms? Throat symptoms may be caused by a wide array of conditions, including infectious diseases, allergies, and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), in which stomach acid backs up into the esophagus. Certain types of head and neck cancers may also cause throat symptoms that include difficulty swallowing, sore throat, and the development of throat growths or sores. Infectious causes of throat symptoms Throat symptoms can be caused by a variety of infectious diseases including: • Chickenpox • Common cold (viral respiratory infection) • Croup (viral illness) • Influenza (flu) • Mononucleosis • Pharyngitis (inflammation of the throat often caused by an infection) • Strep throat (streptococcal bacteria infection characterized by a sore, red throat and occasionally white spots on the tonsils) • Tonsillitis (inflammation of the tonsils often caused by an infection) Other causes of throat symptoms Other causes of throat symptoms include environmental factors, allergies, and digestive system conditions: • Allergies, including hay fever and rhinitis • Dry air •Foreign body •Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD, a condition in which stomach acid backs up into the esophagus) • Head and neck cancers • Postnasal drip • Smoking and air pollution Life-threatening causes of throat symptoms In some cases, throat symptoms may be a symptom of a serious or life-threatening condition that should be immediately evaluated in an emergency setting. These include: Anaphylaxis (life-threatening allergic reaction) • Choking or aspiration of food, fluids, or other substances into the windpipe • Epiglottitis (inflammation and swelling of the epiglottis) What is the Pharynx and Tonsils? The technical name for throat is pharynx. The pharynx is the uppermost part of the alimentary tract and commonly referred to as the throat. It directs the passage of air and food between the mouth and nose into esophagus and larynx. The tonsils are collections of lymphoid tissue that lie in the pharynx. Location of the Pharynx It starts from the back of the mouth and nose and extends down into the esophagus. It runs from the base of the skull to the inferior border of the C6 vertebra, which is posterior to the pharynx, and the cricoid cartilage, which lies anterior to the pharynx.  What is the function of the pharynx? Functions of the pharynx include: 1. Swallowing 2. Breathing 3. Speech 4. Equilibration of the Pressure in the Middle Ear 5. Immunity The pharynx has three functions based on the cavities which lies adjacent to it. The nasopharynx is an extension of the nasal cavities and directs air downwards during inhalation and upwards during exhalation. The oropharynx extends from the back of the mouth and carries ingested food and drinks from the mouth into the esophagus. The laryngopharynx lies just behind the larynx (voice box) and is the lowermost part of the pharynx. It serves as a common passage for both food (into the esophagus) and air (into the larynx). Location of the Tonsils ?The pharyngeal tonsil is located in the mucous membrane lining the roof and posterior wall (back wall) of the nasopharynx. It is commonly referred to as the ‘adenoids‘ when inflamed. ?The tubal tonsil is located in the submucosa of the nasopharynx near the opening of the eustachian tube. ?The palantine tonsils lie on either side of the oropharynx in between the palantine arches. ?The lingual tonsils are located at the back of the tongue. The tonsils form a ring on lymphoid tissue which is referred to as the pharyngeal lymphatic ring (tonsillar ring or Waldeyer’s ring). Mouth and Throat Disorders Epiglottitis Laryngitis Laryngoceles Retropharyngeal Abscess Salivary Gland Disorders Submandibular Space Infection Tonsillar Cellulitis and Tonsillar Abscess Tonsillopharyngitis Vocal Cord Polyps, Nodules, and Granulomas Vocal Cord Contact Ulcers Vocal Cord Paralysis Common Conditions Involving Pharynx Itchy throat Sore throat Difficulty swallowing – dysphagia Swollen Uvula Aerophagia Enlarged tonsils or inflamed tonsils Tonsil Stones Enlarged adenoids Postnasal drip Throat injuries Throat problems are common. You've probably had a sore throat. The cause is usually a viral infection, but other causes include allergies, infection with strep bacteria or the upward movement of stomach acids into the esophagus, called GERD. Tonsillitis - an infection in the tonsils Pharyngitis - inflammation of the pharynx Croup - inflammation, usually in small children, which causes a barking cough Epiglottitis Laryngitis Throat Problems Diagnosis Cold and Flu Gastroenteritis, also called Stomach Flu Strep Throat or Mononucleosis/Acute pharyngitis/Pharyngitis - sore throat Bronchitis, Pneumonia or Post Nasal Drip Croup Epiglottitis Canker Sores Trench mouth Drug Reactions Oral thrush How is it diagnosed? Begin Here Symptoms Diagnosis Self care 1. Do you have a fever? No Go to Question 7.* Yes 2. Do you have body aches, headache, cough or runny nose? Yes You probably have a COLD or FLU. Drink plenty of fluids and get plenty of rest. Children should be given nonaspirin medicine for the fever. If the cold lasts longer than two to three days, see your doctor. No 3. Are you vomiting or do you have nausea or diarrhea? Yes You may have viral GASTROENTERITIS, also called STOMACH FLU. Drink plenty of fluids and get plenty of rest. Use an antinausea and/or antidiarrheal medicine . See your doctor if symptoms get worse, if they last longer than a week, or if you become dehydrated. No 4. When you look at the back of your throat, do you see white patches on your tonsils? Yes You may have STREP THROAT or MONONUCLEOSIS. See your doctor. No 5. Do you have a persistent cough or are you coughing mucus? Yes These symptoms may be from BRONCHITIS, PNEUMONIA or POST-NASAL DRIP. These illnesses need prescription treatments. See your doctor. No 6. Is the person a child with a harsh barking cough? Yes A dry barking cough often means CROUP or, less commonly, EPIGLOTTITIS. Make sure the child is drinking plenty of fluids. Relieve fever and other discomfort with children's acetaminophen. See your doctor right away if there is shortness of breath. Croup and other respiratory infections may need treatment by your doctor. - 7. Do you have small, open sores on your tongue, inside your lips or on the sides or back of your mouth? Yes These sores are called CANKER SORES. They usually occur by themselves or with other viral illnesses. Most of these sores will heal in 7 to 14 days. Use an anesthetic spray or an analgesic medicine. If the sores are severe, last longer than expected, or are accompanied by other symptoms, see your doctor. No 8. Is the skin in your mouth peeling, and are your tongue and gums swollen and red? Yes This may be from TRENCH MOUTH, an infection of the gums, teeth and other tissues. A rare drug reaction, STEVENS-JOHNSON REACTION, may also cause this. See your dentist or doctor. Poor dental hygiene may lead to this disease. Brush your teeth and floss as recommended by your dentist. Use over-the-counter pain medications to relieve discomfort. No 9. Do you have white patches and redness on your tongue or on the sides or back of your mouth? Yes You may have ORAL THRUSH, a yeast infection in your mouth. This may be a simple infection, or it may come from another, more serious illness. You may be able to control the infection by eating unsweetened yogurt (with live cultures) or taking acidophilus. This may help restore normal bacteria in your body. See your doctor if it returns or doesn't go away. Sore throat Why will a patient with a sore throat go to the medical emergency room? What should you know about prescriptions relevant to this treatment? Does this treatment recommendation need a physician’s prescription? What will a label of treatment recommendations prescription look like? What is a Sore Throat? What are the symptoms of a sore throat? What causes sore throats? What is tonsillitis? What is mononucleosis? What tests may be used to find the cause of my sore throat? What is the treatment for a sore throat caused by bacteria? What is the treatment for a sore throat caused by a virus? What about a sore throat that's caused by allergies? If I have tonsillitis, will I need a tonsillectomy? How can I avoid catching or passing a sore throat? Sore Throat | Questions to Ask Your Doctor What is strep throat? |
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Why will a patient with a sore throat go to the medical emergency room? Pain of sore throat will trouble the patient. Pain due to sore throat brings patient to medical emergency room. Keep phenol spray (generic name: phenol, brand name: Chloraseptic) ready.  This will give immediate pain relief to the patient. Here are further guidelines. What should you know about prescriptions relevant to this treatment? Not all such treatment recommendations need a prescription. Certain pharmacies and pharmacists may ask for a prescription. Forward this question to pharmacist. Does this treatment recommendation need a physician’s prescription? If a prescription is required, it will look like this. Dosage for adults Amoxicillin Take one capsule by mouth 3 times a day. Continue this medication for 10 days from the day of prescription. Advil PM Take one tablet by mouth 2 times a day. Continue this medication for 10 days from the day of prescription. If you are working 9AM-5PM, take one tablet in the evening and one tablet at night by mouth for 10 days. Alka-Seltzer Plus Night Severe Cold + Flu 
CONTAINS Acetaminophen (pain reliever-fever reducer) Phenylephrine Hydrochloride (nasal decongestant) Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide (cough suppressant) Guaifenesin (expectorant) Take throat lozenges by mouth 3 times a day. Gargle with warm salt water (1 teaspoon of salt per 1 cup [8 ounces] of water) 3 times a day. Take phenol spray (generic name: phenol, brand name: Chloraseptic) 3 times a day. Direction for use: Test one spray on hand for safety. If it does not hurt or irritate, go ahead like this. Shake the phenol spray. Open your mouth. Focus on area of throat that is painful; spray on both sides of the throat. or Strepsils Plus Throat Spray 20ml What will a label of treatment recommendations prescription look like? Prescription number: Name, address of the patient: Name, address of the Physician: Dr. Asif Qureshi 5042 N. Winthrop Ave. #237, Chicago, Illinois 60640. Fill date: March 30, 2015 Name of Medication: Amoxicillin 500 mg capsule. Take one capsule by mouth 3 times a day. Quantity: 20 Refills: 0 Use by April 10, 2015. This label will be on one of your medication. If prescription is not required, pharmacist will give the above medication to you without a prescription. Name and address of the patient and physician will not be required. You can take these medications from over the counter. What is a Sore Throat? A sore throat refers to pain, itchiness, or irritation of the throat. You may have difficulty swallowing food and liquids, and the pain may get worse when you try to swallow. Throat pain is the primary symptom of a sore throat. However, other symptoms may include a dry throat, swollen glands in the neck, white patches on the tonsils, and hoarseness. A sore throat can affect people of all ages—however, the risk of a sore throat is higher in some people. This includes children, smokers, allergy sufferers, and people with a compromised immune system. Sharing a close space with others also increases the risk of upper respiratory infections that can present initially as a sore throat. What are the symptoms of a sore throat? A sore throat means that your throat hurts and is irritated, swollen, or scratchy. It usually hurts worse when you swallow. Depending on the cause of your sore throat, you may have other symptoms in addition to sore throat, such as the following: •Fever •Headache •White patches in your throat or on your tonsils •Red and swollen tonsils •Abdominal pain (usually in children) •Vomiting (usually in children) What causes sore throats? Causes of a Sore Throat Many things can cause sore throat. Viruses (such as those that cause colds, the flu, and mononucleosis) can lead to a sore throat. Bacteria (such as those that cause strep throat) can also cause a sore throat, as can smoking, mouth breathing at night while you sleep, breathing polluted air and allergies to pet dander, pollens and molds. There are several causes of a sore throat. Viral Infection The majority of sore throats are triggered by a viral infection. These are infections caused by a virus, such as the cold and flu. Other types of viral infections include: •mononucleosis: infectious disease typically transmitted through saliva •measles: contagious illnesses characterized by a distinct rash and fever •chickenpox: infection that causes skin sores •croup: infection of the larynx Bacterial Infection A bacterial infection can also cause a sore throat. These types of infections include: •strep throat: inflammation of the throat caused by the Streptococcal bacteria •diphtheria: infectious disease that causes throat inflammation •whooping cough: disease of the respiratory mucous membrane Environmental Factors Not all sore throats are viral or bacterial. There are several other causes of throat pain. If you’re allergic to mold, pet dander, pollen, or other irritants, exposure to these allergens can trigger post-nasal drip. This is when excess mucus accumulates in the back of your throat. This accumulation can irritate your throat and cause pain or inflammation. Dry air can also make your throat feel raw and scratchy. Smoking cigarettes or exposure to cigarette smoke can trigger persistent sore throats, as well as throat strain from yelling or too much talking. GERD Gastroesophageal reflux disease may also cause your sore throat. This is a digestive condition characterized by the back flow of stomach acid into the esophagus. This condition causes an array of symptoms, such as a sore throat, hoarseness, heartburn, and nausea. Other Causes In very rare cases, a sore throat may be a sign of HIV or throat cancer. Diagnosing a Sore Throat Most sore throats do not require medical attention. However, see a doctor if your sore throat lasts for longer than one week and if you experience: •difficulty breathing •joint pain •difficulty swallowing •an earache •a rash •fever over 101 degrees F •bloody mucus •a lump in the throat •hoarseness for longer than two weeks Determining the cause of your sore throat can help your doctor treat your symptoms. Your doctor will do a physical examination and examine your throat with a lighted instrument. He or she will look for signs of inflammation or white patches, which might indicate strep throat. Your doctor will also feel your neck for swollen glands and check your breathing. Because strep throat is a common cause of sore throats, your doctor may swab the back of your throat and examine the sample for the Streptococcal bacteria. He or she may also run a blood test to determine whether you have a viral or bacterial infection. If your doctor is unable to diagnose your sore throat, he or she will refer you to an allergist or an ear, nose, and throat specialist. These specialists will determine whether allergens or a throat disorder is the cause of your sore throat. Note that it can be difficult to diagnose a sore throat in infants and toddlers. In this age group, refusal to eat is a common sign of throat irritation. |
Human Anatomy
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What human anatomy should one know relevant to this medical condition? Questions What is the use of the pharynx? What is the difference between the larynx and the pharynx? What is the role of the pharynx in the respiratory system? What makes up the larynx? Anterior to which vertebrae is the pharynx situated? What is the nasopharynx? What are the boundaries of the pharyngeal isthmus? What are adenoids? What is the pharyngeal hypophysis? Where are the openings of the auditory tube? What are the boundaries of the faucial isthmus? List the components of the pharyngeal lymphatic ring. Where is the tonsil? What is the piriform recess? Where does a pharyngeal diverticulum usually form? What is the motor innervation of the pharynx? How may the interior of the larynx be viewed in vivo? What is the vertebral level corresponding to the inferior extent of the larynx? Is the hyoid bone a part of the larynx? Are the arytenoid cartilages fixed or mobile? Where are the corniculate and cuneiform cartilages? How may the larynx be entered in acute respiratory obstruction? Why have the vestibular folds been termed "false vocal cords"? Which is the narrowest part of the laryngeal cavity? What is the commonest cause of laryngeal spasm? Why does laryngeal edema not extend inferior to the glottis? What are the afferent fibers involved in the cough reflex? What are the results of injury (e.g., during thyroid surgery) to a recurrent laryngeal nerve? What is the use of the pharynx? The pharynx, or throat, is the passageway leading from the mouth and nose to the esophagus and larynx. The pharynx permits the passage of swallowed solids and liquids into the esophagus, or gullet, and conducts air to and from the trachea, or windpipe, during respiration. What is the difference between the larynx and the pharynx? The pharynx makes up the part of the throat situated immediately posterior to the nasal cavity, posterior to the mouth and superior to the esophagus and larynx. The human pharynx is conventionally divided into three sections: the nasopharynx, the oropharynx and the laryngopharynx. It is also important in vocalization. What is the role of the pharynx in the respiratory system? In humans the pharynx is part of the digestive system and also of the conducting zone of the respiratory system. (The conducting zone also includes the nose, larynx, trachea, bronchi, and bronchioles, and their function is to filter, warm, and moisten air and conduct it into the lungs.) What makes up the larynx? Figure 53-8 The structures in or near the anterior median line of the neck: (1) symphysis menti, (2) diaphragma oris (mylohyoid muscles) crossed by the digastric muscles, (3) hyoid bone, (4) median thyrohyoid ligament, (5) laryngeal prominence of the thyroid cartilage (overlying the glottis), (6) cricothyroid ligament. Anterior to which vertebrae is the pharynx situated? The pharynx is situated anterior to cervical vertebra 1 to 6 (see fig. 53-1). Occasionally the nasopharynx and laryngopharynx are referred to as the epipharynx and hypopharynx, respectively. Similarly, the epitympanic recess and the tympanic cavity inferior to the level of the tympanic membrane are sometimes called the epitympanum and hypotympanum, respectively. What is the nasopharynx? 53-2 The nasopharynx is the superiormost part of the pharynx, but (at least in its anterior aspect) it may also be regarded as the posterior portion of the nasal cavity. What are the boundaries of the pharyngeal isthmus? The pharyngeal isthmus (between the nasopharynx and oropharynx) is bounded by the soft palate, palatopharyngeal arches, and posterior wall of the pharynx. What are adenoids? Adenoids (Gk, gland-like) are hypertrophied (naso)pharyngeal tonsils on the posterior wall of the nasopharynx. They may cause respiratory obstruction. Their removal (adenoidectomy), which was first undertaken in 1868, is generally combined with tonsillectomy. What is the pharyngeal hypophysis? The pharyngeal hypophysis, situated on the posterior wall of the pharynx, develops at the pharyngeal end of the stalk of the craniopharyngeal pouch (Rathke, 1838). Like the sellar hypophysis, it is an endocrine gland (P. McGrath, J. Endocrinol., 42:205, 1968) and contains several types of secretory cells (C. B. Gonzalez, G. F. Valdes, and D. R. Ciocca, Acta Anat., 97:224, 1977). Where are the openings of the auditory tube? The so-called auditory tube, described by Eustachi (1563) but known even before the time of Christ, would be better named the pharyngotympanic tube. Its cartilaginous part is a diverticu1um of the pharynx that opens posterior to the inferior nasal concha (see fig. 53-4). The osseous part is a prolongation of the tympanic cavity opening from the anterior wall of the cavity. The tube is closed at rest but opens during swallowing and phonation, perhaps by a "milking" action of the levator and tensor (S. Seifand A. L. Dellon, Cleft Palate J., 15:329,1978; see also V. K. Misurya, Arch. Otolaryngol., 102: 265,1976). A detailed account of the tube is available in J. Terracol, A. Corone, and Y. Guerrier, La trompe d'Eustache,'Masson, Paris, 1949. What are the boundaries of the faucial isthmus? The faucial (or oropharyngeal) isthmus is bounded by the soft palate, palatoglossal arches, and tongue. List the components of the pharyngeal lymphatic ring. The pharyngeal lymphatic ring (Waldeyer, 1884) comprises the nasopharyngeal, tubal, palatine, and lingual tonsils. It is presumed to be a protective collar against infections and organisms that might enter through the nose and mouth. Where is the tonsil? The (palatine) tonsils are located between diverging pillars on each side of the pharynx, namely the palatoglossal and palatopharyngeal arches. Tonsillectomy, an operation described by Celsus in the first century A.D., is now performed either by dissection or by a special instrument known as a guillotine. What is the piriform recess? The piriform recess (or sinus or fossa), in which foreign bodies may become lodged, is the part of the cavity of the laryngopharynx situated on each side of the inlet of the larynx (see fig. 53-3). Where does a pharyngeal diverticulum usually form? A pharyngeal diverticulum usually forms posteriorly through the fibers of the inferior constrictor (between the thyropharyngeal and cricopharyngeal fibers). Increased intrapharyngeal pressure is regarded as an important factor in the production of a "pulsion diverticulum" through a weak area ("Killian's dehiscence") between the parts of the inferior constrictor. Moreover, swallowing in the presence of cricopharyngeal incoordination may be important in allowing mucosal herniation through a weak area in the pharyngeal wall (W. S. Payne and A. M. Olsen, The Esophagus, Lea & Febiger, Philadelpha, 1974). Regurgitation and difficulty in swallowing (dysphagia) may result, so that surgical excision may be indicated. Normally, a sphincteric zone is described immediately inferior to it, although also supplemented by, the inferior constrictor (C. Zaino et al., The Pharyngoesophageal Sphicter, Thomas, Springfield, Illinois, 1970). What is the motor innervation of the pharynx? The motor innervation of the pharynx is chiefly through the pharyngeal plexus, which is formed by the pharyngeal branches of cranial nerves X and IX. The vagus nerve provides most of the motor innervation. These motor fibers are derived from the accessory nerve. The glossopharyngeal nerve is mostly sensory. How may the interior of the larynx be viewed in vivo? The interior of the larynx may be viewed in vivo either indirectly through a laryngeal mirror or directly through a laryngoscope (see figs. 53-11C and D and 53-12). During the nineteenth century, the stethoscope, ophthalmoscope, laryngoscope, gastroscope, cystoscope, rectoscope, and bronchoscope were invented, in that order. What is the vertebral level corresponding to the inferior extent of the larynx? The larynx ends opposite the C6 vertebra, where the pharynx and larynx become continuous with the esophagus and trachea, respectively. Is the hyoid bone a part of the larynx? The hyoid bone is generally not included as a part of the larynx. The larynx is suspended from the hyoid bone, which is in turn suspended from the base of the skull. The styloid process, usually 30 mm in length, may be as long as 80 mm. The stylohyoid ligament, which connects it to the lesser horn of the hyoid bone, may become partly or even completely calcified, or it may become a chain of ossicles (J. R. Chandler, Laryngoscope, 87:1692, 1977). Are the arytenoid cartilages fixed or mobile? 53-16 The arytenoid cartilages are extremely mobile. Arytenoid means shaped like a vase. Where are the corniculate and cuneiform cartilages? The corniculate cartilages (Santorini, 1724) are in the aryepiglottic folds and on the apices of the arytenoid cartilages, with which they form a posteriorward-projecting horn (or cornu; hence the name). The cuneiform cartilages (Wrisberg, 1786) are also in the aryepiglottic folds, immediately anterior to the corniculate. These cartilages form elevations that may be visible on laryngoscopy (see fig. 53-12). A small, unimportant nodule in the posterior border of the thyrohyoid membrane is known as the cartilago triticea (L., grain-like). How may the larynx be entered in acute respiratory obstruction? In acute respiratory obstruction, the infraglottic cavity may be entered through the cricothyroid ligament (cricothyrotomy). Why have the vestibular folds been termed "false vocal cords"? The vestibular folds are frequently referred to as "false vocal cords" because they do not produce voice sounds. Which is the narrowest part of the laryngeal cavity? The rima glottidis, i.e., the interval between the vocal folds, is the narrowest part of the laryngeal cavity. What is the commonest cause of laryngeal spasm? The presence of a foreign body is the commonest cause of laryngeal spasm. Why does laryngeal edema not extend inferior to the glottis? Mucosal swelling does not spread inferior to the glottis because the mucosa is closely adherent to the vocal folds. What are the afferent fibers involved in the cough reflex? Afferent vagal fibers from the larynx (superior laryngeal nerves), trachea, and bronchi reach the medulla. Then a deep inspiration is followed by closure of the vocal folds, forceful expiration, and sudden opening of the vocal folds. Foreign matter is usually removed by the rapidly moving air. What are the results of injury (e.g., during thyroid surgery) to a recurrent laryngeal nerve? Unilateral severance of a recurrent laryngeal nerve causes paralysis of the intrinsic muscles, except for the cricothyroid. However, the abductor (posterior cricoarytenoid) is usually affected first (Semon's rule), so that the involved vocal fold remains in the median plane, except when jostled by the normal fold (Chevalier Jackson). |
Tonsillitis
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What is tonsillitis? Tonsillitis is when the tonsils (at the back of your mouth on each side of your throat) become infected by bacteria or a virus. It causes the tonsils to swell and can cause a sore throat and other symptoms. Signs of strep throat and tonsillitis are often alike. What is mononucleosis? Mononucleosis (mono) is a viral infection caused by the Epstein-Barr virus. One of the main signs of mono is a sore throat that may last for 1 to 4 weeks. Other symptoms include large swollen glands in your neck and armpits, fever, headache and feeling tired. What tests may be used to find the cause of my sore throat? Your doctor may do a rapid strep test, a throat culture or both. A rapid strep test will give results fast (usually within about 15 minutes). But the test won't tell if your sore throat is caused by a bacterium other than Streptococcus or if it's caused by a virus. A throat culture takes longer (between 24 and 48 hours) but it's more accurate. If your doctor thinks you may have mono, he or she will probably do a blood test. What is the treatment for a sore throat caused by bacteria? How to Treat a Sore Throat If your sore throat is caused by bacteria, your ________ doctor will probably prescribe an antibiotic. You will most likely begin to feel better in a few days, but it is very important to take all the antibiotics your doctor prescribes. This reduces the risk that your sore throat will return and also helps prevent antibiotic resistance. The treatment for a sore throat depends on the cause. However, you can treat many sore throats at home. Home treatment options include: •gargling with warm salt water •drinking plenty of warm fluids, such as teas, soup, and water •avoiding allergens and irritants, such as smoke and chemicals •taking throat lozenges •reducing inflammation with ibuprofen or acetaminophen Phenol spray Generic Name: phenol (FEE-nole) Brand Name: Chloraseptic Treating sore throat pain, sore mouth, pain associated with canker sores, and minor mouth irritation. It may also be used for other conditions as determined by your doctor. Phenol spray is an oral anesthetic and analgesic combination. It works by numbing the painful or irritated areas. If a bacterial infection causes your sore throat, your doctor will prescribe a course of antibiotics to kill the infectious organisms. You should take your medication for 10 days or as prescribed by your doctor to treat the bacterial infection. A sore throat may recur if you stop treatment early. If you have a viral infection, your doctor may want to let the virus run its course. During that time, he or she may prescribe medications, such as decongestants and pain relievers, to ease your symptoms. In some cases, your doctor may want to try an antiviral drug to fight the virus. Complications of a Sore Throat In the case of persistent bacterial throat infections, your doctor may recommend a tonsillectomy to surgically remove the tonsils. This is a last resort treatment that should only be considered when sore throats do not respond to antibiotics. What is the treatment for a sore throat caused by a virus? Antibiotics don't work against viruses. Infections caused by viruses usually just have to run their course. Most symptoms caused by a cold- or flu-type virus go away in a week to 10 days. Symptoms caused by mono can last for 4 weeks or more. If you have mono, your doctor will probably suggest that you get plenty of rest and that you not exercise too hard. What about a sore throat that's caused by allergies? If a sore throat is a symptom of hay fever or another allergy, your doctor can help you figure out how to avoid the things that trigger your allergies. You may also need to take medicine for your allergies. Easing the pain of a sore throat •Take acetaminophen (one brand name: Tylenol), ibuprofen (one brand name: Motrin), or naproxen (one brand name: Aleve) to relieve pain. Children should not take aspirin. Aspirin can cause a serious illness called Reye's syndrome when it is given to children younger than 18 years of age. •Gargle with warm salt water (1 teaspoon of salt per 1 cup [8 ounces] of water). •Suck on throat lozenges or hard candy. •Suck on flavored frozen desserts (such as Popsicles). •Use a humidifier in your bedroom or other rooms you spend lots of time in. •Drink lots of liquids. They help keep your throat lubricated and prevent dehydration. If I have tonsillitis, will I need a tonsillectomy? Tonsillectomy is a surgery that removes the tonsils. Most people who have tonsillitis don't need a tonsillectomy. You might need a tonsillectomy if you get severe tonsillitis often or if your tonsils are too large and cause problems with your breathing. Your doctor can tell you if a tonsillectomy is needed. How can I avoid catching or passing a sore throat? How to Prevent a Sore Throat The best ways to avoid catching or passing the viruses and bacteria that can lead to a sore throat are to wash your hands regularly, avoid touching your eyes or mouth and cover your mouth when coughing or sneezing. Many underlying causes of sore throats are infectious, and there are certain steps you can help you prevent future infection. Repeatedly washing your hands throughout the day kills germs and bacteria that can cause viral and bacterial infections. Additional steps that you can take to prevent a sore throat include: •Do not share drinking glasses or utensils with others. •Use hand sanitizers whenever soap and water are not available. •Limit contact with commonly touched surfaces. •Reduce exposure to allergens, such as pollen, dust, and mold. •Avoid cigarette smoke. •Keep a humidifier in your house to eliminate dryness. Sore Throat | Questions to Ask Your Doctor When should I go to the doctor with a sore throat? What is causing my sore throat? Is there anything I can do to make myself more comfortable? I have a fever and a sore throat. Could I have strep throat? Are cold mist humidifiers better for me than warm mist humidifiers? How long will it take before I know what is causing my sore throat? Should I go to work if I have a sore throat? What is strep throat? Strep throat is caused by a type of bacteria called streptococcus. The pain of strep throat often feels much like sore throats caused by other bacteria or by viruses. What's important and different about strep throat is that if it isn't treated it can sometimes result in kidney inflammation or rheumatic fever. Rheumatic fever can lead to a rash, inflamed joints and, in severe cases, damage to the valves of the heart. What causes it? Strep throat is caused by streptococcal (strep) bacteria, most often by group A beta-hemolytic streptococcus (GABS). Other types of strep that can sometimes infect the throat are groups C and G strep bacteria. A strep infection causes the throat (pharynx) and the tonsils or adenoids to become irritated, inflamed, and painful. How is strep throat treated? Antibiotics such as amoxicillin, cephalexin, or penicillin are used to treat strep throat. Antibiotics work only against bacterial infections such as strep throat. They will not help sore throats caused by allergies or viral infections such as colds. Antibiotics are commonly used to: •Kill the bacteria and shorten the time you are contagious. You are typically no longer contagious 24 hours after you start antibiotics. •Prevent rare complications. Although uncommon, strep bacteria can spread to other parts of your body, causing ear or sinus infections or an abscess behind or around the tonsils (peritonsillar abscess). Antibiotics may also prevent the infection from triggering your immune system to attack itself and cause serious conditions such as rheumatic fever. •Relieve discomfort and speed healing to some degree. Antibiotic treatment can begin immediately if a strep infection is confirmed by a rapid strep test. But there is no harm in waiting for the results of a throat culture to confirm strep throat before starting antibiotic treatment. In fact, it is better to wait until strep throat has been confirmed so that antibiotics are not used unnecessarily. Overuse of antibiotics can make them ineffective. Although waiting to treat strep throat may prolong the time you have the illness, delaying treatment for a few days doesn't increase the risk of rheumatic fever or other complications.1 Your doctor also may recommend nonprescription medicines such as acetaminophen or anesthetic throat sprays to help relieve the pain and discomfort caused by strep throat. Acetaminophen will also reduce fever. Congestion, Sore Throat & Cough Assured Mucus Relief Expectorant Tablets, 15 ct. 
Product Details Helps loosen phlegm to make coughs more productive! Immediate acting mucus relief tablets contain 400 mg of Guaifenesin to relieve chest congestion and rid the bronchial passageway of bothersome mucus. Can I prevent strep throat? What are the symptoms? What happens when I get strep throat? What increases my risk of getting strep throat? Who is affected by strep throat? Who can diagnose strep throat? How is strep throat diagnosed? Should I take antibiotics for a sore throat? What medicines will I need to take? What complications can develop? What can I do at home to relieve symptoms of strep throat? When should I call my doctor? Here are further guidelines. |