We get rid of pharyngitis in 24 hours: effective methods
Section 1: Understanding pharyngitis and its causes
Pharyngitis, known as pain in the throat, is an inflammation of the mucous membrane of the pharynx, the back of the throat. This condition is extremely common, especially in the cold season, and is often a consequence of a viral or bacterial infection. Understanding the causes of pharyngitis is critical of effective treatment and rapid relief of symptoms.
-
Viral infections: The vast majority of pharyngitis cases (about 70-85%) are caused by viruses. The most common culprits are viruses that cause a cold (rhinoviruses, coronaviruses), influenza (influenza A and B), adenovirus, Epstein-Barr virus (mononucleosis) and a herpes simplex virus (HSV). Viral pharyngitis is usually accompanied by other symptoms of colds or influenza, such as a runny nose, cough, sneezing, headache and fatigue. The key point is that antibiotics are ineffective against viral infections.
-
Bacterial infections: About 15-30% of cases of pharyngitis are caused by bacteria. The most common bacterial cause is Streptococcus pyogenescausing streptococcal pharyngitis or tonsillitis. Streptococcal pharyngitis differs from a viral, characterized by a more sudden beginning, severe sore throat, painful swallowing, fever, headache, nausea, vomiting (especially in children) and red, swollen tonsils, often with purulent plaque. It is important to note that streptococcal pharyngitis requires antibiotic treatment to prevent serious complications, such as rheumatic fever and glomerulonephritis. Other bacteria that cause pharyngitis less often include Mycoplasma pneumoniae, Chlamydia pneumoniae And Arcanobacterium haemolyticum.
-
Non -infectious reasons: In fewer cases, pharyngitis can be caused by non -infectious factors. These include:
-
Allergies: Allergic reactions to pollen, animal hair, mold or other allergens can cause inflammation and irritation of the throat.
-
Environment irritants: Air pollution, smoke (cigarette smoke, fire smoke), chemical evaporation and other stimuli can cause sore throat.
-
Dry air: Dry air, especially in winter, can dry the mucous membrane of the throat and cause irritation.
-
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERB): Acid reflux from the stomach to the esophagus and throat can cause inflammation and sore throat.
-
Voice ligaments tension: Excessive use of voice, scream or singing can lead to inflammation and sore throat.
-
Tumors: In rare cases, tumors in the throat or larynx can cause sore throat.
-
HIV infection: Pharyngitis can be one of the symptoms of primary HIV infection or the progressive stage of the disease.
-
-
Risk factors: Some factors increase the risk of pharyngitis:
-
Age: Children and adolescents are more susceptible to streptococcal pharyngitis.
-
Close contact with patients: Finding next to people who have pharyngitis increases the risk of infection.
-
Weak immune system: People with a weakened immune system, for example, due to HIV, cancer or intake of immunosuppressants, are more susceptible to infections that cause pharyngitis.
-
Smoking: Smoking irritates the mucous membrane of the throat and increases the risk of pharyngitis.
-
Allergies: People with allergies are more prone to pharyngitis caused by allergens.
-
Section 2: Symptoms of pharyngitis: how to recognize the disease
Symptoms of pharyngitis can vary depending on the cause of the disease. However, there are general symptoms that allow you to suspect pharyngitis:
-
Sore throat: The main symptom of pharyngitis is sore throat. The pain can be weak, moderate or strong, and it can intensify when swallowing.
-
Painful swallowing (dysphagia): Swallowing can be painful and difficult.
-
Hoarse voice: The voice can become hoarse or hoarse.
-
Redness of the throat: The back wall of the throat can look red and inflamed.
-
Increased and painful lymph nodes on the neck: The lymph nodes on the neck can be increased and painful when touching.
-
Fever: An increase in body temperature (fever) often accompanies pharyngitis, especially bacterial.
-
Headache: Headache is a common symptom of pharyngitis.
-
Fatigue (weakness): The feeling of fatigue and weakness is the usual symptoms of pharyngitis.
-
Cough: The cough can be dry or wet, depending on the cause of pharyngitis.
-
Runny nose: A runny nose is often accompanied by viral pharyngitis.
-
Sneezing: Sneezing is also characteristic of viral infections that cause pharyngitis.
-
Pain in the ears: Pain in the ears can occur due to the spread of inflammation from the throat in the Eustachian pipe.
-
Nausea and vomiting: Nausea and vomiting are more common in children with bacterial pharyngitis.
-
Rash: In some cases, for example, with scarlet fever, which is a complication of streptococcal pharyngitis, a rash may appear.
Symptoms requiring medical care:
In most cases, pharyngitis takes place independently for several days. However, in some cases it is necessary to consult a doctor:
-
Strong sore throat that makes swallowing and breathing.
-
High temperature (above 38.5 ° C) or fever that does not subside for several days.
-
Blood in saliva or sputum.
-
The hoarse of the voice, which lasts more than two weeks.
-
Increased and painful lymph nodes on the neck, which do not decrease within a few weeks.
-
Rash.
-
Joint pain.
-
Difficult breathing.
-
Symptoms of dehydration (dry mouth, rare urination, dizziness).
-
If you have chronic diseases, such as diabetes or heart disease.
-
If you are pregnant.
Section 3: Diagnosis of pharyngitis: how to determine the cause
Diagnosis of pharyngitis is important to determine the cause of the disease and choose the right treatment. Diagnosis usually includes:
-
A history of history: The doctor will ask you about your symptoms, medical history, contacts with patients and medications taken.
-
Physical inspection: The doctor will examine your throat, tonsils, lymph nodes and other organs.
-
Streptate (express test for streptococcus): This test allows you to quickly determine the presence of streptococcus in the throat. The doctor takes a smear from the throat and puts it in a special solution. The test result is usually ready for several minutes.
-
Sowing from the throat: This test is more accurate than a streptwatest, but 24-48 hours are required to obtain a result. The doctor takes a smear from the throat and sends it to the laboratory where bacteria is grown. If streptococcus grows, then the diagnosis of streptococcal pharyngitis is confirmed.
-
General blood test: This analysis can help determine the presence of infection and distinguish a viral infection from bacterial.
-
Other tests: In some cases, other tests may be required, for example, a mononucleosis analysis or HIV analysis.
Section 4: Home remedies to alleviate the symptoms of pharyngitis in 24 hours (possible options)
Although a complete cure for pharyngitis in 24 hours is unlikely (especially if it is a bacterial infection requiring antibiotics), you can significantly alleviate the symptoms and accelerate recovery using home remedies. It is important to understand that these are measures to relieve symptoms, and not the treatment of infection itself.
-
Half up the throat with salt water: Rinsing the throat with warm salt water (1/2 teaspoon of salt per glass of warm water) helps to reduce inflammation, relieve sore throat and rinse bacteria and viruses. Rinse the throat every 2-3 hours.
-
Honey: Honey has antibacterial and anti -inflammatory properties. It helps to calm his throat and reduce the cough. You can take honey in its pure form or add it to tea or warm water. It is not recommended to give honey to children up to 1 year old due to the risk of botulism.
-
Herbal teas: Herbal teas, such as chamomile tea, ginger tea, tea with lemon and honey, have soothing and anti -inflammatory properties. They help moisturize the throat and reduce the pain.
-
Steam inhalations: Steam inhalations help moisturize the mucous membrane of the throat and relieve breathing. You can inhalations over pots with hot water or use an inhaler. Be careful not to burn the steam. You can add a few drops of eucalyptus or tea tree essential oil in hot water.
-
Abundant drink: Drinking a large amount of liquid (water, juice, broth) helps moisturize the throat and prevent dehydration.
-
Rest: Rest is important for restoring the body and combating infection. Try to sleep more and avoid physical exertion.
-
Air moisture: The use of a humidifier of air helps maintain humidity in the room and prevent dry throat.
-
Avoid irritants: Avoid smoking, contaminated air and other irritants that can worsen the symptoms of pharyngitis.
-
Launders from sore throat: Lights from sore throat contain anesthetics that temporarily relieve pain.
-
Throat sprays: Throat sprays contain antiseptics or anesthetics that help reduce inflammation and sore throat.
-
Painkillers: To relieve pain and reduce temperature, you can take painkillers, such as paracetamol or ibuprofen. Follow the instructions for use.
Section 5: Medical treatment of pharyngitis
Drug treatment of pharyngitis depends on the cause of the disease.
-
Viral pharyngitis: Antibiotics are ineffective against viral infections. Treatment of viral pharyngitis is aimed at alleviating the symptoms and includes home remedies, such as rinsing the throat, honey, herbal teas, plentiful drinking and rest. In some cases, the doctor may prescribe antiviral drugs, for example, for the treatment of influenza.
-
Bacterial pharyngitis (streptococcal pharyngitis): Streptococcal pharyngitis must be treated with antibiotics to prevent complications, such as rheumatic fever and glomerulonephritis. The most commonly prescribed antibiotics are penicillin or amoxicillin. It is important to undergo a full course of antibiotics, even if you have become better to completely destroy bacteria. Other antibiotics, such as erythromycin or azithromycin, can be prescribed to people with allergies to penicillin.
-
Non -infectious pharyngitis: Treatment of non -infectious pharyngitis is aimed at eliminating the cause of the disease. For example, antihistamines can be prescribed with allergic pharyngitis. With pharyngitis caused by GERB, drugs that reduce the acidity of the stomach can be prescribed.
Section 6: Pharyngitis Prevention: How to prevent the disease
Prevention of pharyngitis includes measures aimed at reducing the risk of infections and irritation of the throat.
-
Wash your hands often: Frequent washing of hands with soap and water helps to remove bacteria and viruses that can cause pharyngitis.
-
Avoid touching your face: Try not to touch your face, especially your mouth, nose and eyes to prevent the spread of infection.
-
Use your hand antiseptic: If there is no way to wash your hands with soap and water, use an alcohol -based antiseptic.
-
Avoid close contact with patients: Try to avoid close contact with people who have symptoms of pharyngitis or other respiratory diseases.
-
Do not share your personal things: Do not share personal things, such as dishes, glasses and towels, with other people.
-
Avoid smoking: Smoking irritates the mucous membrane of the throat and increases the risk of pharyngitis.
-
Moisturize the air: The use of a humidifier of air helps maintain humidity in the room and prevent dry throat.
-
Drink a lot of liquids: Drink a lot of liquids to moisten the mucous membrane of the throat.
-
Observe a healthy lifestyle: Balanced nutrition, sufficient sleep and regular physical exercises help strengthen the immune system and reduce the risk of infections.
-
Vaccination: Influenza vaccination helps to prevent pharyngitis caused by the influenza virus.
Section 7: pharyngitis in children: features and treatment
Pharyngitis in children is a common disease, especially at the age of 5 to 15 years. Children are more susceptible to infections causing pharyngitis due to their immature immune system.
-
Symptoms of pharyngitis in children may differ from symptoms in adults: Children can be more irritable, refuse to eat, have increased salivation and dream difficulties. They also often have nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain.
-
Streptococcal pharyngitis in children requires mandatory treatment with antibiotics: Streptococcal pharyngitis can lead to serious complications, such as rheumatic fever and glomerulonephritis if it is not treated.
-
Do not give aspirin to children: Aspirin can cause Reye syndrome in children, a rare but serious disease that can lead to damage to the liver and brain.
-
Consult a doctor: If your child has symptoms of pharyngitis, consult a doctor for diagnosis and treatment.
Section 8: diet with pharyngitis: what can and cannot eat
The correct diet can help relieve pharyngitis symptoms and accelerate recovery.
-
What can be eaten:
-
Soft and easily digestible food: Soups, broths, mashed potatoes, yogurts, jelly, cereals.
-
Cold food: Ice cream, cold yogurt, fruit ice can help reduce sore throat.
-
Warm liquid: Herbal teas, broths, warm water with honey and lemon.
-
Fruits and vegetables: Fruits and vegetables are rich in vitamins and minerals that help strengthen the immune system. It is preferable to choose soft fruits, such as bananas and melons.
-
-
What should be avoided:
-
Acute and acidic food: Acute and acidic food can irritate the throat and enhance the pain.
-
Solid and rough food: Solid and coarse food can scratch the throat and enhance the pain.
-
Dry food: Dry food can dry the throat and cause irritation.
-
Hot food: Hot food can burn the throat and enhance inflammation.
-
Alcohol and caffeine: Alcohol and caffeine can dehydrate the body and slow down recovery.
-
Section 9: complications of pharyngitis: what you need to know
Although pharyngitis usually takes place independently for several days, in some cases complications may occur.
-
Complications of streptococcal pharyngitis:
-
Rheumatic fever: A serious disease that can affect the heart, joints, brain and skin.
-
Glomerulonephritis: Kidney disease.
-
Perinshyllar abscess: Purulent cluster in the area of the tonsils.
-
Scarlatina: Infectious disease characterized by rash and fever.
-
-
Other pharyngitis complications:
-
Sinusit: Inflammation of the paranasal sinuses.
-
Otitis: Inflammation of the middle ear.
-
Bronchitis: Inflammation of the bronchi.
-
Pneumonia: Pneumonia.
-
Section 10: Pharyngite myths: debunk errors
There are many pharyngitis myths that can lead to improper treatment and deterioration.
-
Myth: pharyngitis always requires antibiotics. True: antibiotics are effective only against bacterial pharyngitis (streptococcal pharyngitis). In most cases, pharyngitis is caused by viruses against which antibiotics are ineffective.
-
Myth: Pharyngitis is just a sore throat. True: pharyngitis is an inflammation of the mucous membrane of the pharynx, which can be accompanied by various symptoms, such as sore throat, fever, headache, fatigue, etc.
-
Myth: milk and dairy products enhance the release of mucus with pharyngitis. True: there is no scientific evidence that milk and dairy products enhance the release of mucus in pharyngitis. However, in some people, dairy products can cause discomfort in the throat.
-
Myth: If the sore throat has passed, then you can stop taking antibiotics. True: it is important to undergo a full course of antibiotics, even if you have become better to completely destroy bacteria and prevent complications.
-
Myth: Hydrogen peroxide rinsing is effective for pharyngitis. True: rinsing the throat with hydrogen peroxide can irritate the mucous membrane of the throat and is not recommended.
Section 11: When to consult a doctor: anxiety signals
Despite the fact that many cases of pharyngitis can be treated at home, there are certain signs and symptoms that require immediate consultation with a doctor.
-
Difficult breathing: If you have difficulties with breathing, shortness of breath or whistling breathing, see a doctor immediately. This may be a sign of a serious infection or obstruction of the respiratory tract.
-
Difficult swallowing: If it is very difficult for you to swallow, especially saliva or liquids, this may indicate a peritonosyllar abscess or other serious infections that require immediate treatment.
-
Strong sore throat, not alleviated by household remedies: If the sore throat is very severe and does not decrease after the use of home remedies within 24-48 hours, you must consult a doctor.
-
High temperature (above 39 ° C) or fever that does not subside: High temperature, especially if it is accompanied by chills and other symptoms, may indicate a bacterial infection that requires antibiotic therapy.
-
Blood in saliva or sputum: Blood in saliva or sputum can be a sign of a serious infection or other health problems that require immediate medical care.
-
Rash: The appearance of a rash along with sore throat may indicate scarlet fever or other infectious diseases that require treatment.
-
Increased and painful lymph nodes on the neck that do not decrease: Increased lymph nodes can be a sign of infection, but if they do not decrease or become more painful, you must consult a doctor.
-
The hoarse of the voice that lasts more than two weeks: Long -term hoarse of voice can be a sign of problems with vocal cords or other diseases requiring examination.
-
Joint pain: Joint pain along with sore throat may indicate rheumatic fever, complication of streptococcal pharyngitis.
-
Symptoms of dehydration: If you have symptoms of dehydration, such as dry mouth, rare urination, dizziness, you must consult a doctor.
-
If you have chronic diseases: If you have chronic diseases such as diabetes or heart disease, and you have symptoms of pharyngitis, you need to consult a doctor.
-
If you are pregnant: Pregnant women with pharyngitis symptoms need to see a doctor to get safe and effective treatment.
Section 12: pharyngitis and immunity: how to strengthen body protection
Strengthening immunity is an important part of the prevention and treatment of pharyngitis. A strong immune system copes better with infections and is restored faster after illness.
-
Balanced nutrition: Proper nutrition, rich in vitamins, minerals and antioxidants, plays an important role in strengthening immunity. Try to eat a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grain products, low -fat meat and fish.
-
Vitamin C: Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that helps strengthen the immune system and fight infections. Use products rich in vitamin C, such as citrus fruits, kiwi, strawberries, pepper and broccoli.
-
Vitamin D: Vitamin D plays an important role in the regulation of the immune system. Get enough vitamin D by spending time in the sun or taking vitamin additives.
-
Zinc: Zinc is an important mineral for the immune system. Use foods rich in zinc, such as meat, seafood, nuts and seeds.
-
Probiotics: Probiotics are useful bacteria that live in the intestines and help strengthen the immune system. Use products rich in probiotics, such as yogurt, kefir, sauer cabbage and kimchi.
-
Sufficient sleep: A sufficient sleep (7-8 hours a day) is necessary to restore the body and strengthen the immune system.
-
Regular physical exercises: Regular physical exercises help strengthen the immune system and reduce the risk of infections.
-
Reducing stress: Chronic stress weakens the immune system. Find ways to reduce stress, such as yoga, meditation, walking in nature or communication with friends and family.
-
Refusal of smoking and abuse of alcohol: Smoking and alcohol abuse weaken the immune system and increase the risk of infections.
Section 13: Pharyngitis and alternative methods of treatment: what science says
Some people turn to alternative methods for the treatment of pharyngitis, such as homeopathy, acupuncture and herbal medicine. However, it is important to remember that the effectiveness of these methods is not always confirmed by scientific research.
-
Homeopathy: Homeopathy is an alternative medicine system based on the principle of “like this.” However, scientific studies have not confirmed the effectiveness of homeopathy in the treatment of pharyngitis.
-
Acupuncture: Acupuncture is a method of traditional Chinese medicine, which consists in introducing thin needles into certain points on the body. Some studies have shown that acupuncture can help relieve pain in pharyngitis, but additional studies are needed.
-
Fitotherapy (herbs treatment): Some herbs, such as chamomile, sage and eucalyptus, have anti -inflammatory and antibacterial properties and can help relieve pharyngitis symptoms. However, before using herbs it is necessary to consult a doctor, as they can cause side effects or interact with other drugs.
It is important to remember that alternative treatment methods should not replace the traditional treatment prescribed by a doctor.
Section 14: Pharyngitis and Covid-19: how to distinguish
During the Covid-19 pandemic period, it is important to be able to distinguish pharyngitis from the Covid-19, since the symptoms of these diseases can be similar.
-
Symptoms of Covid-19, which are usually absent with pharyngitis:
-
Loss of smell and taste (anosmia and agvsia): This is one of the most characteristic symptoms of Covid-19.
-
Difficult breathing or shortness of breath: These symptoms are more often found at Covid-19 than with pharyngitis.
-
Muscles and joint pain (myalgia and arthralgia): Although muscle pain can be with pharyngitis, it is usually more pronounced at Covid-19.
-
-
Symptoms that can be in both diseases:
-
Sore throat: This is a general symptom of both pharyngitis and Covid-19.
-
Fever: An increase in body temperature can be observed for both diseases.
-
Cough: The cough can also be a symptom of both pharyngitis and the Covid-19.
-
Headache: Headache is a common symptom of both diseases.
-
Fatigue: A feeling of fatigue can be with both diseases.
-
-
How to distinguish:
-
The history of the disease and contacts: Ask yourself if you have contacted people who had Covid-19.
-
Testing on Covid-19: If you suspect that you may have Covid-19, take testing.
-
Consultation with a doctor: Consult a doctor for diagnosis and treatment.
-
Section 15: Rehabilitation after pharyngitis: how to restore health
After transferred pharyngitis, it is important to observe several simple rules in order to completely restore health and prevent relapses.
-
A gradual return to physical activity: Do not overload the body immediately after recovery. Gradually increase physical activity, starting with easy exercises.
-
Balanced nutrition: Continue to adhere to a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals to strengthen the immune system.
-
Sufficient sleep: Provide yourself enough sleep (7-8 hours a day) so that the body will completely recover.
-
Avoid irritants: Avoid smoking, contaminated air and other irritants that can worsen the state of the throat.
-
Moisturize the air: Use a humidifier to maintain humidity in the room and prevent dry throat.
-
Regular examinations at the doctor: If you often have pharyngitis, consult a doctor to identify and eliminate possible reasons.
Section 16: New methods of treatment of pharyngitis: What is in development
Despite the fact that there are effective methods for treating pharyngitis, scientists continue to develop new and improved ways to combat this disease.
-
New antiviral drugs: New antiviral drugs are being developed, which can be more effective in the treatment of viral pharyngitis.
-
New antibiotics: New antibiotics are being developed that can be effective against bacteria resistant to existing antibiotics.
-
Immunotherapy: Immunotherapy is a treatment method that is aimed at strengthening the body’s immune system to combat infections. New immunotherapeutic approaches for the treatment of pharyngitis are developed.
-
Gene therapy: Gene therapy is a treatment method that consists in introducing genetic material into the body cells for the treatment of diseases. Genetical and therapy approaches for the treatment of pharyngitis are developed.
Section 17: Pharyngitis and Psychosomatics: Stress Influence
Stress and other psycho -emotional factors can influence the occurrence of pharyngitis. Psychosomatics study the relationship between mental and physical health, and pharyngitis is no exception.
-
The impact of stress on the immune system: Chronic stress can weaken the immune system, making the body more susceptible to infections causing pharyngitis.
-
Muscle tension in the throat: Stress can lead to muscle tension in the throat, which can cause discomfort and pain.
-
Suppression of emotions: The suppression of emotions, such as anger and sadness, can lead to tension in the throat and cause pharyngitis.
-
What to do:
-
Stress management: Find the ways of managing stress, such as yoga, meditation, walking in nature or communication with friends and family.
-
Expression of emotions: Do not suppress your emotions, but find ways to express them in a healthy way.
-
Psychotherapy: In some cases, it can be useful to contact a psychotherapist to work with psycho -emotional factors affecting pharyngitis.
-
Section 18: Legal aspects of the treatment of pharyngitis: patient rights
Each patient has certain rights when applying for medical help, including the treatment of pharyngitis.
-
The right to information: The patient has the right to receive complete and reliable information about his disease, methods of diagnosis and treatment, as well as possible risks and complications.
-
The right to consent to treatment: The patient has the right to independently make decisions on his treatment and give consent to conduct medical interventions.
-
The right to refuse treatment: The patient has the right to refuse the proposed treatment, with the exception of cases when it threatens the lives of other people.
-
The right to confidentiality: Information about the patient’s health is confidential and cannot be disclosed without his consent.
-
The right to choose a doctor and a medical institution: The patient has the right to choose a doctor and a medical institution to receive medical care.
-
The right to compensation for harm: If the patient was harmful as a result of poor quality of medical care, he has the right to compensation for damage.
Section 19: Pharyngitis and pregnancy: Features of treatment
Pharyngitis during pregnancy requires special attention, as some drugs can be contraindicated in pregnant women.
-
Safe treatment methods:
-
Home remedies: Rinsing the throat with salt water, honey, herbal teas, plentiful drink, rest.
-
Paracetamol: To reduce temperature and relieve pain, you can take paracetamol.
-
-
Medicines that should be avoided:
-
Aspirin: Aspirin is contraindicated in pregnant women, especially in the third trimester.
-
Ibuprofen: Ibuprofen should be avoided in the third trimester of pregnancy.
-
Some antibiotics:
-