Acute pharyngitis generally heals within seven to ten days. Acute pharyngitis is caused by a viral infection due to lowered immunity and resistance. Patients may experience sudden high fever, severe sore throat, and symptoms such as dry throat, itchy throat, sensation of a foreign body in the throat, and a feeling of obstruction. Examination may reveal swelling and congestion of the soft palate and uvula, and yellow secretions on the posterior pharyngeal wall. In terms of treatment, acute pharyngitis is a viral infection and generally does not require oral antibiotic treatment. Patients can use nebulized inhalation which is effective in reducing congestion and edema of the throat. A bland diet, abstaining from smoking and alcohol, avoiding spicy and irritating foods, drinking more water, and resting more can generally lead to gradual improvement within a week. (The use of medications should be under the guidance of a professional doctor.)