Pharyngitis is inflammation of the pharynx causing a sore throat, often accompanied by other symptoms. It can be caused by various microorganisms, including viruses and bacteria, and can be treated with antibiotics if caused by bacteria.
Pharyngitis is a medical condition characterized by an inflamed pharynx, which is the part of the throat and neck located immediately behind the oral cavity. Individuals with this condition experience a sore throat, which may be accompanied by a headache, fever, or swollen lymph nodes. Other symptoms may include a runny nose, trouble swallowing, and difficulty breathing.
A variety of factors can cause pharyngitis, all of which are different types of microorganisms. Most cases are caused by viral infections, the most common being influenza, the common cold, mononucleosis, adenovirus, and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Other viruses that can cause it include adenovirus, measles, herpes simplex, coxsackievirus, and Epstein-Barr virus.
Certain types of bacterial infections can also lead to pharyngitis, including group A strep, which is responsible for sore throats. This bacterium, in fact, is responsible for about 15% of cases. Strep can also lead to serious complications, such as kidney dysfunction, rheumatic fever, and strep toxic shock syndrome.
Other bacterial infections that can lead to pharyngitis include Arcanobacterium or Corynebacterium haemolvyticus, Chlamydia and Mycoplasma pneumoniae, Corynbacterium diphtheriae and Neisseria gonnorrhoeae. Group C, G, and F streptococci can also cause the condition. This group accounts for about 10% of cases.
Some rarer types of bacteria can also lead to pharyngitis. These include Francisella tularensis, Borrelia species, Corynebacterium ulcerans and Yersinia species.
Because respiratory illnesses, bacterial infections, and viral infections occur more often in colder months, pharyngitis is more prevalent during the same season. Also, inflammation can be caused by dry air, which is common in the winter months due to indoor heating. There are also causes not involving organisms, including chemical injury, smoking, gastroesophageal reflux disease, endotracheal intubation, and malignancies. Allergies and postnasal drip can also lead to pharyngitis.
The proper treatment of pharyngitis depends on the underlying cause. If it’s caused by a bacterial infection, it can be treated with antibiotics. To treat symptoms, a doctor may recommend taking pain relievers, gargling with warm salt water, and swallowing plenty of fluids.
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