How is acute pharyngitis treated?

Written by Li Mao Cai
Otolaryngology
Updated on September 20, 2024
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The treatment of acute pharyngitis is based on its causes and symptoms. First, it is recommended to gargle with mouthwash, which helps alleviate some throat symptoms. Additionally, it is important to rest, drink plenty of fluids, consume a liquid diet, and avoid foods that are too hot or too harsh to reduce irritation to the throat. Also, minimize speaking to allow the vocal cords to rest thoroughly, which can help alleviate symptoms of hoarseness. In terms of medication, the treatment primarily involves anti-inflammatory and antiviral therapies. Doctors will select the appropriate medication based on your drug sensitivity, routine medication experience, and the seasonal characteristics of the outbreak. Nebulized inhalation treatment is also necessary, which can relieve swelling of the throat mucosa, reduce mucosal swelling, and has an anti-inflammatory effect. If the condition is severe, systemic antibiotics and corticosteroids may be added, and traditional Chinese medicine lozenges can be used to support symptomatic treatment.

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Written by Deng Bang Yu
Otolaryngology
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Is nebulization effective for pharyngitis?

Pharyngitis is caused by various reasons and is an acute and chronic infection of the throat, characterized by sore throat, hoarse voice, and various foreign body sensations in the throat. The basic pathological changes are the congestion and edema of the pharyngeal mucosa, including both acute and chronic congestion. Therefore, nebulization treatment mainly works through the nebulized particles directly affecting the mucosa of the throat. Medications such as gentamicin and dexamethasone have a direct effect in reducing the mucosal edema of the throat. The effect of nebulization for pharyngitis is quite good as it directly affects the mucosa. For some patients, it is necessary to combine nebulization with oral medication, and generally, the combined treatment is very effective. (Specific medications should be used under the guidance of a physician.)

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Written by Zhang Jun
Otolaryngology
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What to drink for pharyngitis

Pharyngitis can usually be prevented and treated with honeysuckle tea or monk fruit tea, with good results. Generally, pharyngitis is caused by repeated acute inflammation, long-term intake of spicy foods, gastrointestinal dysfunction, and acidic irritation leading to congestion, edema, and lymph follicle proliferation in the pharyngeal mucosa and submucosal tissues. Symptoms include dry throat, sore throat, itchy throat, foreign body sensation in the throat, obstruction sensation, burning sensation, irritative cough, hoarseness, and difficulty swallowing. Severe cases may also lead to blood in the sputum. Upon examination, noticeable congestion and edema of the pharyngeal mucosa can be found, particularly in the uvula and soft palate. Lymph follicle proliferation can be seen on the posterior pharyngeal wall and pharyngeal recesses, with significant congestion in both vocal cords, though they may not close completely. For treatment, patients should first undergo symptomatic anti-inflammatory treatment. Oral administration of cephalosporin antibiotics has been found to be effective, and it should be combined with nebulized inhalation. Improvement is generally seen within about a week. (The use of medication should be conducted under the guidance of a professional doctor.)

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Written by Li Rui
Otolaryngology
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Is pharyngitis prone to recurrence?

Pharyngitis is a relatively common otolaryngological disease that tends to recur. The most common causes are acute bacterial or viral infections. It can also be triggered by a cold, and some patients are affected because they often come into contact with irritants or chemical substances. A small number of patients suffer due to spicy diets or the consumption of other allergenic foods. Generally, symptoms can be significantly improved through standardized medical treatment. For example, throat pain and the sensation of a foreign body in the throat can be alleviated, but there is a tendency for recurrence. Additionally, some patients may experience inflammatory reactions in other parts of the body. (The use of medications should be guided by a professional doctor.)

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Written by Li Rui
Otolaryngology
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Can you eat mangoes with pharyngitis?

Pharyngitis is a relatively common ENT disease. Generally, patients with pharyngitis can eat mangoes, but they should not consume them if they have a mango allergy. Overall, mangoes do not have direct irritants, do not adversely affect the condition of pharyngitis, and do not impact the treatment's effectiveness. Most patients can normally consume fruits. Additionally, it is recommended to eat a lighter diet, avoid spicy and stimulating foods, and refrain from smoking and drinking alcohol. With timely medical treatment, most patients' conditions will gradually improve, but it is currently difficult to completely cure and may recur.

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Written by Yao Jun
Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery
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What are the symptoms of pharyngitis?

Pharyngitis refers to the chronic inflammation of the mucous membrane and submucosal layer of the pharynx, which can extend to the lymphatic tissue adjacent to the pharynx. Its causes are related to bacterial infections, viral infections, environmental factors, and the dietary habits of the patient. In traditional Chinese medicine, it is considered to be caused by excessive internal heat. Thus, symptoms of pharyngitis can include dry throat, a sensation of heat, a foreign body sensation, discomfort when swallowing, and an irritating cough. In severe cases, it might lead to pain, coughing, and expectoration of phlegm, which are some of the main symptoms of pharyngitis. Severe cases might also involve throat pain and swelling of the submandibular lymph nodes.