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Throat inflammation can be caused by infections, allergies, and acid reflux. Antibiotics are used for bacterial infections, antihistamines for allergies, and anti-inflammatory medications for swelling and pain. Life-threatening allergic reactions require emergency treatment. Keeping the throat moist with non-caffeinated beverages and using throat lozenges can help soothe a sore throat. A healthcare professional should evaluate a sore throat for an appropriate treatment plan.
Throat inflammation can be caused by a throat infection such as strep throat, allergies, and postnasal drip. In addition, pharyngitis, an inflammation of the pharynx, can also cause inflammation of the throat. Typically, throat inflammation is temporary, however, certain conditions such as a seasonal allergy can contribute to chronic throat inflammation. Acid reflux can also cause inflammation of the throat because stomach acid is highly irritating to the sensitive tissue in the throat.
Before treatment can begin for sore throat, the cause must be determined. When a bacterial infection is present, antibiotics are usually the treatment of choice. For example, a sore throat is caused by a bacteria and usually requires antibiotic treatment. After the full course of antibiotics has been consumed, the inflammation in the throat typically subsides. When strep throat is the organism responsible, patients should ensure they have finished all medications to prevent rheumatic fever, a complication of strep throat.
When runny nose causes inflammation in the throat, antihistamines may be helpful to stop mucus from dripping down the throat. Antihistamines, however, cause dry mouth, drowsiness and urinary retention. They should only be used on a temporary basis and never in combination with other medications unless approved by your doctor. Additionally, anti-inflammatory medications are often recommended for throat inflammation to help with swelling and to relieve pain.
Some allergic reactions can cause inflammation of the throat. Rarely, these allergic reactions can cause a life-threatening condition in which the throat closes completely. This is sometimes seen in those who have peanut allergies or those who are allergic to shellfish. In these patients, emergency treatment is required to reduce the risk of respiratory arrest. People with life-threatening allergies sometimes carry medications that can help reduce allergy risks if taken at the first sign of a reaction.
Keeping your throat moist with non-caffeinated beverages can help reduce inflammation and irritation. Tea with honey and nectars is a good choice, as is plain water. Drinks containing caffeine can cause mild dehydration, dry out throat tissue, and contribute to throat pain and swelling. Dissolving a throat lozenge, cough drop, or hard candy can soothe a sore, inflamed throat and minimize the risk of swallowing difficulties.
In addition to pain and difficulty swallowing, a sore throat often has other characteristics. These include a deep red color and sometimes red or white spots. The white spots are typically caused by a bacterial infection and the buildup of pus and other debris that gets trapped in the tonsils. In addition, tonsillitis or inflammation of the tonsils is often present. While home and natural remedies can help, a healthcare professional needs to evaluate a sore throat to determine an appropriate treatment plan.
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