Pharyngitis, inflammation of the throat

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How to quickly cure pharyngitis? — Best tips, methods and recipes

Sore throat often occurs as a result of pharyngitis, which, without appropriate and timely treatment, quickly becomes chronic.

Table of contents:

The danger of the disease also lies in the development of serious complications.

There are many methods for treating pharyngitis - irrigating the throat with a spray, gargling, inhalation, antibacterial therapy, and internal medication.

The main causes of pharyngitis

Pharyngitis is an inflammation of the pharyngeal mucosa

Pharyngitis often occurs due to hypothermia or overheating of the throat. This occurs mainly as a result of mouth breathing, as well as eating foods that are too cold or hot.

Pharyngitis is caused by bacterial and viral infections. In most cases, the causative agent of the disease is considered to be streptococci, staphylococci, pneumococci, and viruses include rhinovirus, adenovirus, and influenza virus. A fungus can sometimes provoke this pathology.

The disease can be caused by the following reasons:

  • Weakened immune system.
  • Dry throat due to a tense voice for a long time.
  • Dental diseases.
  • Chronic otolaryngological diseases.
  • Deviation of the nasal septum.
  • Poor posture.
  • Pathological processes of the digestive organs.
  • Malfunctions of the hormonal system.

Sometimes allergic reactions influence the occurrence of pharyngitis. Due to these reasons, in most cases, acute pharyngitis occurs. If it is not treated in a timely manner or the treatment tactics are chosen incorrectly, the disease can become chronic.

Factors that provoke the development of the disease include:

  • Unfavorable climate for the patient.
  • Tobacco smoking.
  • Frequent consumption of alcoholic beverages.
  • Environmental factor.

Rarely, pharyngitis occurs as a result of surgery or foreign objects entering the throat.

In order to choose the right treatment tactics, a specialist needs to establish the underlying cause of the disease. For example, to cure pharyngitis caused by pathogenic bacteria, antibiotics are necessary.

Symptoms of the disease

Sore throat, redness of the tonsils, dry cough and fever are possible signs of pharyngitis

The main symptom of pharyngitis is considered to be a sore throat, especially noticeable in the morning after sleep. In addition, the pronounced signs of the pathological condition are as follows:

  • Headache.
  • Heat.
  • Dryness and sore throat.
  • General fatigue.
  • Redness of the tonsils with a white coating.
  • Swelling of the throat mucosa.
  • Nausea or vomiting.
  • Enlarged lymph nodes in the neck.
  • Cough without sputum production.
  • Feeling of a lump in the throat.
  • Pain when swallowing.
  • There is a gray coating on the tongue.

Sometimes, with weak vessels in the oropharynx that are damaged during coughing, blood may be present in the sputum or saliva. In addition, with pharyngitis, the patient feels as if swallowing relieves a sore throat. The disease may also be accompanied by muscle pain and runny nose.

To diagnose pharyngitis, in addition to examination by a specialist, sometimes a throat smear may also be required.

It is important to note that the signs of the disease may differ depending on the two forms of pharyngitis: acute and chronic. When pharyngitis occurs in an acute form, the symptoms are more pronounced, and the patient feels significant discomfort. Chronic pharyngitis is characterized by minimal clinical signs.

You can also determine the type of pharyngitis based on the symptoms of the disease:

  • Hyperemia of the throat mucosa indicates catarrhal pharyngitis.
  • Enlarged lymph nodes may indicate a hypertrophic type of disease.
  • With atrophic pharyngitis, the mucous membrane becomes thinner due to a prolonged inflammatory process.
  • Pharyngitis, caused by inhalation of allergens, is accompanied by a dry cough, hyperemia of the back of the pharynx, swelling of the mucous membrane, and sore throat.

If the above symptoms are detected, you should consult a specialist for an accurate diagnosis of the disease, which can be confused with tonsillitis or laryngitis. After the examination, the doctor will prescribe the necessary therapy.

Drug treatment

Treatment of pharyngitis should be carried out with an integrated approach

In case of an acute illness that occurs as a result of a bacterial infection, antibacterial therapy is mandatory.

These can be antibiotics of the following groups:

  • Penicillin group. Such drugs effectively act on staphylococci. They contain clavulanic acid and amoxicillin. Augmentin, Trimafox, Flemoxin, Flemoclav, Amoxicillin, Ecoclave are considered popular in the treatment of pharyngitis.
  • Macrolides. Such drugs are often used because they have the property of quickly penetrating into the infectious focus and are effective against many pathogenic bacteria. In addition, they are used for penicillin intolerance. The macrolide group includes Azithromycin, Erythromycin, Zitrolide, Sumamed, Spiramycin.
  • Cephalosporin series. Effective agents are Cefriaxon, Suprax, Cephabol, Zinnat, Cephalexin, Cefuroxime. They are used for advanced pharyngitis and the development of complications.
  • Tetracycline group. Prescribed in rare cases when microorganisms are resistant to antibiotics of other groups. These drugs are not recommended for use in the treatment of pharyngitis in children.
  • Sometimes topical antibacterial agents may be prescribed. These are drugs such as Fusofungin or Bioparox.

When taking antibiotics, you must not forget about preventing dysbiosis, which develops from antibacterial therapy. To do this, take probiotics - Lactobacterin, Linex, Bifiform.

For viral pharyngitis, it is necessary to take antiviral drugs, for example, Anaferon, Neovir, Arbidol, Isoprinosine.

Imudon is considered a modern and effective drug for the treatment of pharyngitis.

Only a doctor can prescribe the correct treatment for pharyngitis, depending on the cause of its occurrence.

To eliminate discomfort and pain in the throat, you can use the following tablets:

  • Falimint
  • Strepsils
  • Grammidin
  • Lysobacter
  • Faringosept
  • Hexoral Tabs
  • Sebidin
  • Septolete
  • Neo-angin
  • Drugs containing iodine may be prescribed: Yox, Vocadin, Iodinol

An integral method of treating pharyngitis is gargling. Medicinal solutions of Furacilin, Miramistin, Chlorhexidine or Chlorophyllipt are excellent for the procedure.

Sprays will help relieve inflammation and reduce pain:

For coughs that accompany pharyngitis, it is recommended to use syrups that help thin the sputum. Many of them contain extracts of medicinal plants: Gedelix, Alteyka, Doctor Mom, Gerbion, Linkas. These syrups are especially suitable for the treatment of pharyngitis in children. You can drink syrups based on ambroxol and acetylcysteine.

For illnesses that arise as a result of allergens entering the body, antihistamines are prescribed: Cetrin, Tavegil, Claritin, Suprastin, Loratadine. They help relieve swelling and redness of the throat.

You can learn more about how to treat pharyngitis at home from the video:

To reduce sore throat and high temperature, you can take painkillers such as Analgin, Acetaminophen, Ibuprofen, Paracetamol.

To improve immunity, it is necessary to consume vitamin-mineral complexes containing B vitamins and ascorbic acid. Immunomodulators are also prescribed, for example, Viferon.

Traditional medicine for illness

The best folk recipes for treating pharyngitis at home

As an auxiliary method of treating pharyngitis, decoctions of medicinal herbs are used to gargle.

Effective means in this regard are the following fees:

  • Black elderberry flowers, speedwell and mint.
  • Birch leaves and oak bark.
  • Calamus bark and chamomile.
  • Horsetail, raspberry (leaves), immortelle.

Plants are taken in equal proportions. The collection (a tablespoon) is brewed in one glass of boiling water. Leave to brew for about two hours. The throat should be gargled with warm broth. You can also perform the procedure with decoctions of chamomile, eucalyptus, mint, calendula, and elm bark, both individually and in collections.

For the procedure, you can use fresh, but diluted with water, juices of white cabbage or beets. An effective, affordable and safe solution for rinsing is table solution, but better than sea salt. Gargling will help reduce pain and discomfort in the throat.

The popular method is inhalation.

Inhalation based on honey is effective. This beekeeping product can also be used for applications. The following remedies can be used for pharyngitis:

Folk remedies are considered very effective. However, they are only auxiliary methods of treatment and their use should be agreed with a specialist.

Inhalation using a nebulizer

Inhalation with a nebulizer for pharyngitis is one of the best methods of treating the disease

The inhalation procedure can be significantly simplified and the therapeutic effect of this method can be increased using a special device – a nebulizer.

There are several types of such devices on the pharmaceutical market. It is quite simple to use - just pour the medicinal solution into the nebulizer tank and, using a mask, breathe in the healing vapors for about 15 minutes. It is important to note that the nebulizer is indispensable in the treatment of otolaryngological and colds in children and pregnant women.

Infusions of medicinal herbs that have anti-inflammatory, bactericidal and analgesic effects are suitable for inhalation for pharyngitis:

For the inhalation method of treatment, the following essential oils can be used to help moisturize the pharyngeal mucosa and reduce the reproduction and growth of pathogenic microorganisms:

When coughing, medicinal solutions can be used for inhalation - Fluimucil, Acetylcysteine.

Useful tips: what not to do and what to do if you are sick

When you have pharyngitis, you must follow certain rules so that recovery occurs faster.

Experts strongly recommend ensuring that the patient is properly hydrated. This is necessary in order to prevent dehydration and moisturize the throat, which helps reduce pain in it. In addition, warm liquid significantly soothes an irritated throat. Suitable drinks include water, green tea with honey, fruit drinks, and compotes.

A patient with pharyngitis is not recommended to eat spicy, sour, salty, or pickled foods. It is advisable to include soft food in your diet that will not irritate the mucous membrane of the throat. You should also avoid drinking and eating with temperature changes.

It is important to remember that smoking and drinking alcoholic beverages is also unacceptable if you are ill.

Patients whose pharyngitis is caused by a bacterial infection should follow the rules of personal hygiene in order not to get sick again and to prevent the spread of the disease.

Possible complications of pharyngitis

To avoid complications of the disease, it is necessary to start treating pharyngitis on time.

Among the possible undesirable consequences of pharyngitis are the following diseases:

  • Kidney failure.
  • Scarlet fever.
  • Abscess is retropharyngeal or peritonsillar.
  • Rheumatism, which affects the joints, heart muscles, and nervous system.
  • Laryngitis.
  • Inflammatory processes of the inner ear or auditory tube.
  • Chronic bronchitis.
  • Sialadenitis.
  • Cervical lymphadenitis.

A complication of acute pharyngitis is also the transition of the pathological condition into a chronic form.

Prevention measures

To prevent the development of pharyngitis, you should adhere to the following preventive rules:

  1. Avoid hypothermia of the body.
  2. Strengthen the immune system by stabbing the body.
  3. Eat fresh fruits and vegetables more often.
  4. Add beekeeping products to your diet.
  5. Avoid temperature changes in food.
  6. Limit consumption of salty, spicy and sour foods.
  7. Stop drinking alcoholic beverages and smoking.
  8. Avoid inhaling hot fumes and contaminated air.

Iodine vapor and sea air help prevent pharyngitis. Therefore, in the summer it is advisable to arrange a trip to the sea. If this is not possible, then you can periodically do inhalations with sea salt with the addition of iodine for preventive purposes.

If you follow these preventive measures, you can reduce the risk of developing pharyngitis several times.

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Comments (9)

12/20/2016 at 09:18 pm | #

When my throat hurts, for example, I am ready to be treated with everything at once. But I found an effective remedy for myself: Isla-Mint lozenges. They relieve inflammation in the throat. Moisturize the mucous membrane and restore a hoarse voice.

Veronica

01/06/2017 at 10:36 | #

I usually start treating pharyngitis by rinsing with chamomile decoction. But recently the pharmacy recommended Trachisan lozenges to me. I liked the effect of them, the sore throat went away quickly, and they freshen my breath perfectly.

02/06/2017 at 14:03 | #

Yes, I, too, was treated with Isla-Mint lozenges for pharyngitis. They removed irritation in the throat and burning sensation. I was satisfied with the treatment.

03/07/2017 at 11:46 | #

It’s good that I work from home, I can rest normally when I’m sick. Recently, for pharyngitis, I literally gargled every two hours, and then dissolved a Trachisan tablet. The sore throat went away quickly.

Svetlana

04/11/2017 at 21:11 | #

Unfortunately, I don’t have time to gargle, I don’t have enough time. But the pharmacy advised me to take Trachisan. I bought it and the result surprised me. They quickly relieved the pain, the inflammation went away. The throat returned to normal within a few days.

Natasha

08.11.2017 at 21:01 | #

At the slightest sign of pharyngitis, such as dryness and sore throat, I immediately begin to dissolve Isla-Mint. The lozenges act quite quickly. They also help moisturize the throat and relieve discomfort.

Irina L

02/10/2018 at 15:35 | #

And I can very quickly relieve inflammation and pain by sucking Grammedin Neo tablets with an anesthetic, they also contain an antibiotic and an antiseptic. And no cumbersome treatments, multiple medications are unnecessary. You just dissolve the tablet, it tastes good, and the pain quickly relieves, the inflammation goes away in a few days.

02/20/2018 at 12:11 | #

I don't like gargling. But tablets or lozenges are a normal issue, you need to look for something at the pharmacy.

Natalie

03/23/2018 at 03:14 | #

Maya, then I advise you to take a closer look at Grammidin, they mentioned him above. I also like these tablets, mint). The throat softens quite well, and the pain goes away.

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Pharyngitis: chronic, acute, causes, signs, how to treat

A disease of the pharynx, manifested by discomfort, pain and sore throat, is called pharyngitis. This pathology is usually diagnosed in middle-aged and elderly people. Men get sick more often than women. Pharyngitis is an independent nosological unit or symptom of most respiratory pathologies: acute respiratory infections, acute respiratory viral infections, tonsillitis, adenoiditis in children.

The structure of the pharynx is conventionally divided into 3 sections: the nasopharynx, oropharynx and laryngopharynx.

Pathological processes occurring in the pharynx are also divided depending on location. In acute viral or bacterial inflammation, the mucous membrane of all parts of the pharynx is affected. In chronic pathology, the mucosa of one anatomical region is usually affected.

Etiology

In more rare cases, the causative agents of pharyngitis are respiratory syncytial virus, Coxsackie virus, Epstein–Barr virus, and human immunodeficiency virus.

  1. The cause of nonspecific bacterial pharyngitis is usually streptococcal, mycoplasma, chlamydial, or staphylococcal infections.
  2. Specific forms of pharyngitis are associated with a specific pathogen: gonococcal pharyngitis is caused by gonococcus, leptotrichosis of the pharynx is caused by Leptotrix buccalis.
  3. The causative agent of fungal pharyngitis is a yeast-like fungus of the genus Candida.
  4. Protozoal lesions of the pharynx are rare and indicate dysfunction of the immune system.
  5. Allergic pharyngitis is associated with the penetration of allergens into the body along with inhaled air. Often the cause of the disease is food allergy.

Irritating factors contributing to the development of the disease include:

  • Cold,
  • Smoking,
  • Chemicals - alcohol,
  • Rough, spicy and hot food,
  • Infectious foci in the body - caries, sinusitis, rhinitis,
  • Long conversation
  • Industrial emissions,
  • Predisposition to allergies
  • Discharge flowing down the back wall of the pharynx, with chronic sinusitis.

Chronic pharyngitis develops in the absence of adequate and timely treatment of the acute form of the pathology.

The main factors provoking the disease include the following:

  1. Features of the anatomical structure of the pharynx and digestive tract,
  2. Infection - bacteria, viruses,
  3. Bad habits,
  4. Hypo- and vitamin deficiency,
  5. Allergy,
  6. Impaired breathing through the nose,
  7. Menopause,
  8. Endocrine diseases - diabetes mellitus, hypothyroidism,
  9. Condition after tonsillectomy,
  10. Irritants - chemicals, smoke, dust,
  11. Chronic pathology of the digestive organs,
  12. Weakening of the immune system
  13. Cardiovascular and hepatic-renal pathology.

Classification

Pharyngitis is classified into two main forms - acute and chronic.

  • The acute form of the disease develops as a result of the simultaneous impact of the causative factor on the pharyngeal mucosa.
  • Chronic pharyngitis is a pathology that develops as a result of prolonged exposure to irritating factors.

Based on its origin, pharyngitis is classified into types:

According to the nature of the lesion and morphological changes:

  • Simple or catarrhal
  • Hypertrophic or granulosa,
  • Subatrophic or atrophic.

Symptoms

The main clinical sign of acute pharyngitis is a sore throat that gets worse with coughing. Often the onset of pain is preceded by dryness and soreness that persist for several days. The more pronounced the swelling of the mucous membrane, the more intense the pain. Severe pain radiates to the ears and causes patients to refuse to eat. After the formation of a persistent pain syndrome, a painful, dry, “scratching” cough appears in the throat.

Common symptoms of pharyngitis are: deterioration of general condition, weakness, malaise, fatigue, fever. These signs of intoxication persist for three days and gradually disappear.

When examining a patient, an ENT doctor discovers hyperemia of the posterior wall of the pharynx with areas of mucopurulent plaque, as well as swelling of the palate, tonsils and uvula. The submandibular and cervical lymph nodes are painful and enlarged in most patients.

Pharyngoscopy allows you to detect inflamed mucous membrane of the posterior pharyngeal wall with characteristic manifestations - hyperemia, edema, lymphoid granules on the mucous membrane.

Gonococcal pharyngitis is a symptom of urogenital gonorrhea, and in some cases it is an independent pathology. Gonorrheal pharyngitis develops after unprotected orogenital intercourse with an infected person. In most cases, the pathology is asymptomatic and is discovered accidentally during microbiological examination. Some patients develop classic symptoms of pharyngitis. On the hyperemic and edematous mucous membrane of the oropharynx, areas with a yellow-gray coating and individual follicles in the form of red grains appear. Inflammation often spreads from the pharynx to the tonsils, gums, palate, and larynx with the development of corresponding pathologies.

Allergic pharyngitis is an inflammation of the pharynx that develops after an allergen enters the mucous membrane. Allergens can include: dust, pollen, pet hair, feathers, medications, food, chemicals used in everyday life and at work. All symptoms of allergic pharyngitis are associated with swelling of the pharyngeal mucosa. The disease manifests itself with local symptoms - dryness, sharp pain when swallowing, increased mucus production. In addition to the symptoms of inflammation of the pharynx, nasal congestion, hoarseness and other signs associated with exposure to the allergen on the upper respiratory tract occur. If it is not eliminated in time, acute pharyngitis can become chronic.

With chronic inflammation of the pharynx, the general condition of patients remains stable: the temperature does not rise, there is no intoxication.

Local signs of catarrhal inflammation:

  1. Dry throat mucosa,
  2. Sore throat,
  3. Painful and dry cough,
  4. A constant desire to cough, associated with the irritating effect of accumulated secretions on the pharyngeal mucosa.

Patients become irritable, their sleep and normal rhythm of life are disrupted.

In adults, some forms of chronic pharyngitis may differ in morphological changes and clinical signs.

  • Granular pharyngitis often complicates the course of inflammatory diseases of the nose, paranasal sinuses, tonsils, and caries. In the absence of adequate and timely therapy, red nodules form on the pharyngeal mucosa, causing paroxysmal coughing. The pathology manifests itself as painful sensations and sore throat, paroxysmal cough with copious sputum.
  • Subatrophic pharyngitis is a consequence of regular exposure to substances that irritate the pharynx. This form of the disease often complicates the course of chronic pathologies of the digestive organs - pancreas, gallbladder, stomach. Treatment consists of eliminating the main etiological factor.
  • Hypertrophic pharyngitis is manifested by thickening and hyperemia of the pharyngeal mucosa, as well as the formation of purulent secretion. This pathology is characterized by the formation of lymphoid accumulations in the pharynx and the release of viscous sputum.

Features of inflammation of the pharynx in childhood

Pharyngitis is a pathology that quite often affects the children's body, occurs in various forms and is often a manifestation of another disease - adenoiditis, scarlet fever, tonsillitis. Children who do not walk much and sleep in a room with dry and warm air are at risk.

To avoid severe complications and the transition of the disease to an atrophic or subatrophic form, sick children are prohibited from going outside in wet weather and soaring their throats for a week. Soda rinses are also not recommended for children with chronic pharyngitis, since soda dries out the mucous membranes, which can provoke the development of severe complications.

It is quite difficult to identify pathology in children. This is due to mild clinical manifestations that do not allow the disease to be detected by eye. After listening to the complaints, the specialist examines the child’s pharynx. The oropharynx in this disease is red, swollen, swollen with the presence of mucous or purulent discharge, the posterior wall is granular with pinpoint hemorrhages or blisters filled with blood.

The child's main complaints:

Local signs persist for a couple of days and gradually disappear. Body temperature is subfebrile or normal. Children usually find it more painful to swallow saliva than to swallow food.

When a secondary infection occurs and complications develop (angina or adenoiditis), general symptoms with severe intoxication begin to increase.

Infants cannot express their complaints, so it is very difficult to recognize pharyngitis in them. Sick children become restless, their temperature rises, sleep and appetite are disturbed. These symptoms are not specific: they can indicate any other disease. If such signs appear, you should immediately contact your pediatrician.

Pharyngitis during pregnancy

Pharyngitis, like any other disease, is dangerous for a pregnant woman’s body and creates many inconveniences associated with the inability to use conventional treatment methods.

The disease manifests itself in pregnant women with classic local symptoms, low-grade fever, lymphadenitis, hoarseness, and hacking cough.

Pharyngitis often complicates pregnancy. In the absence of adequate treatment in the early stages, it can lead to miscarriage, and in the later stages - to premature birth.

Diagnostics

Diagnosis of pharyngitis includes an instrumental examination of the patient - pharyngoscopy, immunodiagnosis, microbiological examination of nasopharyngeal discharge, determination of streptococcal antigens in the blood.

When the first suspicion of inflammation of the pharynx appears, it is necessary to examine it. Examination of the pharynx is a simple procedure, often performed at home, and does not require any special skills or abilities. The patient must be brought to the light and the handle of a spoon pressed on the central part of the tongue. The depth of advancement of the spoon should be controlled so as not to provoke vomiting.

Patients have a red throat, the mucous membrane is injected and swollen. If the disease is accompanied by fever, you should consult a doctor, since the symptoms of pharyngitis are in many ways similar to the symptoms of a sore throat. Acute inflammation of the tonsils is a terrible pathology, often leading to severe complications.

Distinctive signs of sore throat in children are:

  • Purulent plugs on the tonsils;
  • Plaque in the form of yellow dots, islands, threads;
  • Severe intoxication - lack of appetite, fever;
  • Severe pain syndrome.

Differential diagnosis of pharyngitis is carried out with laryngitis and tonsillitis.

Inflammation of the pharynx and larynx

Pharyngitis is a disease with localization of the pathological process on the mucous membrane of the pharynx. It is manifested by local inflammatory signs and general symptoms of intoxication - fatigue, tiredness, decreased performance, headache. The pathology complicates the course of rhinitis and ARVI.

An inflammatory disease of the mucous membrane of the larynx and vocal cords of bacterial or viral origin is called laryngitis. Local symptoms of laryngitis: hoarseness, hoarseness, barking cough. Systemic signs include: fever, muscle and joint pain, malaise, weakness. In addition to infectious factors, the causes of laryngitis are: overstrain of the vocal cords, injuries of the larynx and their consequences.

Inflammation of the pharynx and larynx differ in the localization of the pathological process, etiology and pathogenesis. Treatment of laryngitis in most cases is carried out using antibiotics, and in the treatment of pharyngitis they are practically not used. Both pathologies are companions of ARVI and make themselves felt from the very beginning of the disease.

Inflammation of the pharynx and tonsils

Tonsillitis is an acute infectious and inflammatory pathology that affects the mucous membrane of the tonsils. Sore throat is caused by conditionally pathogenic bacteria of the droplet group of infections - streptococci and staphylococci, transmitted by airborne droplets from a sick person. In more rare cases, the disease is caused by viruses, fungi and even chlamydia. Sore throat complicates the course of respiratory infections.

Inflammation of the pharynx and tonsils manifests itself with similar clinical signs.

With pharyngitis - morning sore throat, hyperemia and swelling of the mucous membrane, burning and dryness, coughing, lump in the throat. General signs of intoxication are mild or completely absent.

With a sore throat, the sore throat is more intense, radiating to the ears and worsening after lunch. The tonsils are covered with purulent plaque. Patients develop characteristic symptoms of intoxication - headache, fever, chills, muscle and joint pain, nausea, vomiting.

The therapeutic principles used for lesions of the pharynx and inflammation of the tonsils are significantly different. For acute tonsillitis, antibiotics are prescribed, and for chronic tonsillitis, surgery is prescribed. For pharyngitis, antiseptic solutions for rinsing, aerosols, inhalations, and drinking plenty of fluids are usually used.

Treatment

Treatment of acute pharyngitis

For acute pharyngitis, hospitalization is not carried out and patients are treated at home. The prognosis is favorable: recovery occurs in approximately 7 days.

Treatment of pathology includes:

  • Compliance with a gentle regime, in which it is forbidden to eat hot and spicy foods, drink alcoholic beverages, strong coffee and tea. These products irritate the pharyngeal mucosa, which requires complete rest during treatment.
  • Gargling should be regular throughout the acute period. The ideal option is to rinse every hour, up to 6 times a day. Adults are recommended to gargle with furatsilin or soda solutions.
  • Inhalation with a nebulizer with decoctions of medicinal herbs, alkaline solutions, mineral water, essential oils.
  • Antiseptic agents in the form of sprays - “Ingalipt”, “Chlorophyllipt”, “Kameton”.
  • Lollipops for sore throat with antimicrobial components - “Faringosept”, “Septolete”. Lollipops with herbal ingredients and menthol cleanse the mucous membrane of infection and increase the body's resistance.

Treatment of chronic pharyngitis

It is necessary to begin treatment of chronic pharyngitis by eliminating the causative factors and unfavorable conditions that slow down the healing process.

During the period of exacerbation, the use of local antibacterial drugs is indicated. Systemic antibiotic therapy is carried out only in the presence of severe symptoms of the disease and signs of intoxication.

Pathology with pronounced trophic changes in the mucosa is difficult to treat, and atrophic pharyngitis is not completely curable.

Basic principles of treatment:

  1. Gargling, using medications in the form of sprays, lozenges, lozenges.
  2. The use of mucolytic agents to cleanse the mucous membrane of crusts, plaque and mucus,
  3. Mechanical treatment of the pharyngeal mucosa,
  4. Regular moistening of the mucous membranes by irrigating the pharynx with vegetable oils,
  5. Multivitamins and immunostimulants,
  6. Physiotherapy - ultrasound, nebulizer inhalation, UHF.

You can supplement drug therapy for chronic pharyngitis with traditional medicine.

ethnoscience

Decoctions and infusions of medicinal herbs are widely used to treat acute pharyngitis. They are used for gargling a sore throat or for inhalation.

  • Sea water is a universal and very effective remedy used for gargling and rinsing the nose.
  • Baths with the addition of essential oils are recommended for pharyngitis. To do this, add 3-4 drops of eucalyptus or fir oil to hot water.
  • Gargling with salt water. Dissolve a teaspoon of salt in half a liter of warm water and gargle with salt water every hour.
  • Chamomile infusion compresses. Soak a napkin in the heated chamomile infusion and wrap it around the neck.
  • Garlic is a natural antiseptic. A mixture of horseradish, honey and garlic is dissolved in water and a sore throat is gargled with the resulting product.
  • Inhalations soften a sore throat and reduce unpleasant symptoms. The duration of one procedure is 5 minutes. In total, treatment will require from 5 to 10 inhalations. For this, infusions and decoctions of medicinal herbs are used: string, viburnum, chamomile, yarrow.

Phytotherapy

  • Inhalations. The main components of solutions for inhalation: infusions and decoctions of lavender, mint, viburnum, linden, string.
  • Gargling with a warm decoction of sage, plantain, chamomile tea, and calendula infusion.
  • Teas and decoctions for oral administration. To combat chronic inflammation of the pharynx, it is recommended to regularly take ginger tea, lemongrass and mint tea, chamomile tea, a warm decoction of black currant and sage with the addition of essential oils.

Treatment of pharyngitis in children

Treatment of pathology in children is carried out at home. Basic therapeutic measures for pharyngitis:

  1. Gentle nutrition, eating warm, non-irritating food and sufficient fluids.
  2. Gargling with solutions containing antiseptics or extracts of medicinal herbs - “Chlorophyllipt”, “Rotokan”, “Miramistin”, infusion of eucalyptus or chamomile.
  3. Take a decoction of sage or calendula 2 times a day, chamomile or linden tea at night.
  4. Irrigate the throat with aerosols with antiseptics or antibiotics - “Proposol”, “Yox”, “Stopangin”, “Kameton”.
  5. Children over 3 years old can use lozenges and lozenges that relieve pain and soothe the throat - Faringosept, Strepsils.
  6. Local antibiotics - “Grammidin”, “Septolete”.
  7. Local immunostimulating drugs - “Imudon”, “Lizobakt”.
  8. Antimicrobial agents - interferons “Viferon”, “Grippferon”, as well as “Arbidol”, “Kagocel”, “Orvirem”. They should be used from the first day of illness in conjunction with local therapy.
  9. You can take antibiotics orally only as prescribed by a doctor and after taking a throat smear to test the microflora and determine sensitivity to antibiotics.
  10. Dry heat on the neck.
  11. Alkaline inhalations with mineral water, saline solution, essential oils, decoctions of medicinal herbs.
  12. Foot baths.

The only treatment for pharyngitis in infants is to drink plenty of fluids, since antiseptic sprays can cause reflex bronchospasm, and they still cannot gargle or dissolve lozenges.

If, after carrying out all the described measures at home, the child’s condition worsens and the body temperature rises, it is necessary to consult a doctor.

Treatment of pharyngitis in pregnant women

All pregnant women experiencing a sore throat should see a specialist. Self-medication in this case is unacceptable, since we are talking about preserving the health and life of the woman and the unborn child. The specialist, taking into account the characteristics of the disease and the condition of the pregnant woman, will determine the cause of the pathology and prescribe appropriate treatment.

Therapeutic measures for pregnant women consist of following the basic principles:

  • Peace,
  • A gentle diet
  • Regular ventilation of the room and humidification of the air in the room,
  • Gargling with herbal decoctions,
  • Inhalations with essential oils - eucalyptus, pine needles, fir,
  • Use of lozenges, lozenges and aerosols.

Traditional medicine used to treat pharyngitis in pregnant women - propolis, honey, garlic, herbal medicine.

Prevention

Simple rules will help prevent the development of the disease:

  1. Sanitize foci of infection in the mouth,
  2. Avoid crowds of people
  3. Use antiviral ointment or drops before going outside,
  4. Rinse your nose with saline solution after returning home,
  5. Take regular walks in the fresh air,
  6. Don't drink cold drinks
  7. Take multivitamins.

Complications of pharyngitis

A complication of the acute form of the disease is chronic inflammation of the pharynx, which over time leads to the development of a number of serious pathologies.

Streptococcal pharyngitis is complicated by the formation of a peritonsillar abscess, manifested by unilateral symptoms: soft tissue swelling, pain and erythema.

With pharyngitis, the infection spreads in a descending manner, which leads to the development of inflammation of the larynx, trachea and bronchi. In addition to laryngitis, tracheitis and bronchitis, articular rheumatism occurs in patients with prolonged streptococcal inflammation of the pharynx.

The main complication of pharyngitis is a general decrease in quality of life. For people whose professional activities involve the need to speak, this disease becomes a real problem. Long-term inflammation leads to a change in voice timbre.

  • Local complications of pharyngitis include: sore throat, abscesses, otitis, phlegmon, inflammation of the salivary glands, cervical lymphadenitis.
  • Common complications of pharyngitis: scarlet fever, rheumatism, glomerulonephritis, myocarditis, sepsis, false croup in children, shock, respiratory arrest.

Source: http://uhonos.ru/gorlo/bolezni-gorla/faringit/

Pharyngitis: symptoms, treatment

Pharyngitis is an acute or chronic inflammatory process localized in the pharynx, affecting its mucosa and deeper layers, as well as the tissues of the soft palate and lymph nodes. Even a severe disease in itself is not life-threatening. This is a very common disease, some forms of which are very difficult to cure.

Types of pharyngitis

According to the course of the disease, acute forms of pharyngitis are distinguished, as well as chronic ones.

They are divided according to the degree and depth of damage to the structure of the mucous membranes of the pharynx: catarrhal OF, purulent OF,

  • Acute catarrhal pharyngitis - externally characterized by the appearance of swelling and hyperemia (redness) of the mucous membranes of the pharynx. At the same time, many red follicle grains sometimes form on its back wall, and clear or slightly cloudy mucus accumulates. There is swelling and redness of the tongue.
  • Purulent forms of acute pharyngitis are accompanied by the appearance on the surface of the posterior pharyngeal wall of accumulations of purulent masses with the possible formation of ulcers.

Acute pharyngitis can occur independently, and can also be accompanied by acute inflammation affecting the upper respiratory tract: rhinitis or inflammation of the mucous membranes of the nasopharynx.

The forms of chronic pharyngitis differ in the depth of damage to the structure of the mucous membranes of the pharynx: catarrhal, hypertrophic and atrophic.

  • Chronic catarrhal pharyngitis is characterized by hyperemia, slight swelling of the tissue layers of the pharyngeal mucosa. Individual areas are sometimes covered with clear or slightly cloudy mucus.
  • Chronic hypertrophic pharyngitis is a significant severity of hyperemia and swelling of the mucous membrane. Additionally, thickening of the uvula and swelling of the soft palate are observed.
  • Chronic atrophic pharyngitis is characterized by some thinning (atrophy) of the lining of the pharynx. They are usually pale pink, sometimes shiny varnished. Some of their areas become covered with crusts, viscous mucus, often with pus.

Lateral pharyngitis is one of the forms of hypertrophic chronic pharyngitis, characterized by hypertrophy of lymphadenoid tissues located inside the pharyngeal lateral folds behind the palatine arches.

Factors in the development of acute pharyngitis

The main cause of acute pharyngitis (AP) is inhalation of contaminated, infected or cold air through the mouth, as well as exposure to various irritants on the surface of the pharynx. That is why OF is further divided according to etiological characteristics (origin):

  • allergic;
  • traumatic - surgical medical intervention, contact with the mucous membrane of a foreign body;
  • infectious - fungal, viral, bacterial.

Acute pharyngitis can be caused by a variety of irritants: smoking, alcohol-containing drinks, radiation, inhalation of hot fumes, dust-contaminated air, and chemicals.

The development of the disease can be provoked by:

  • microbes - staphylo-, strepto-, pneumococci and others;
  • viruses (almost 70% of cases of OF) - adenoviruses, influenza viruses, rhinoviruses, coronoviruses;
  • mushrooms - candida.

OF can develop due to the spread of infections from any inflammatory foci adjacent to the pharynx area. For example, in the case of rhinitis, dental caries, sinusitis, sinusitis. There are forms of OF that are named after specific pathogens: Leptotrix buccalis, Epstein-Barr virus, Yersinia enterocolitica or with gonococcus (gonorrheal pharyngitis).

Causes of development of chronic pharyngitis

It is extremely rare that chronic pharyngitis is diagnosed as an independent inflammation. This is usually how cholecystitis, pancreatitis, gastritis, or other gastrointestinal pathologies manifest themselves. Tonsillectomy (removal of the palatine tonsils), as well as smoking, can provoke the development of inflammatory processes in the pharyngeal mucosa. Catarrhal HF can develop due to frequent ingestion of acidic gastric contents into the throat, for example, in the case of a hiatal hernia. Chronic pharyngitis can develop as a result of:

  • sufficient duration of difficulty in nasal breathing - rhinitis, sinusitis, deviated nasal septum, polyps;
  • using vasoconstrictor drops for a long period of time.

There are several more common factors that stimulate the emergence and development of HF:

  • individual characteristics of the constitution, structure of the mucous membranes of the pharynx, gastrointestinal tract;
  • long-term or very strong exposure to the surface of the mucous membrane of the throat of chemicals, scalding hot, cold dry, dusty or smoky air and other exogenous factors;
  • hormonal disorders - menopause, diabetes, hypothyroidism;
  • lack of vitamin A;
  • diathesis, allergies;
  • abuse of alcoholic beverages, smoking;
  • renal, pulmonary, liver, and heart failure.

The development of chronic forms of pharyngitis is stimulated by severe inflammatory processes affecting the pharynx and frequent colds. It is facilitated by joining existing viral and bacterial infections. Chronic pharyngitis is often accompanied by inflammation of the tonsils of the pharynx (angina).

Symptoms of pharyngitis

The very first signs of pharyngitis are the appearance of unpleasant, painful sensations inside the throat: tickling, soreness, burning. In the morning, the need to get rid of viscous mucous accumulations - expectoration, coughing, can cause nausea and vomiting. Patients complain of pain when swallowing.

The severity of symptoms depends on the etiology and forms of pharyngitis. Usually OF and HF are accompanied by:

  • hyperemia of the mucous membranes of the pharynx;
  • “graininess” of lymphoid pharyngeal tissues;
  • the formation of mucopurulent deposits on the back surface of the pharynx, sometimes spreading to the surface of the palatine tonsils;
  • general weakness;
  • periodic, sometimes constant headaches;
  • persistent, often dry cough;
  • increase in temperature - up to 37.5 0;
  • rhinitis;
  • muscle pain.

In the case of HF, which is only a manifestation of an underlying disease, the symptoms are “enriched” with its symptoms.

With pharyngitis, the occipital and submandibular lymph nodes may enlarge, pressure on which can cause quite painful sensations. The spread of infection to the middle ear area is indicated by the appearance of a feeling of stuffiness and pain in the ears.

OF in children is often confused with various ARVI diseases: scarlet fever, measles. Its symptoms are similar to those of angina, which is distinguished not only by greater severity of pain symptoms, but also by a significant increase in temperature - up to 39 0. The symptoms of pharyngitis are similar to those of diphtheria. Distinctive feature: the absence of difficult to separate gray-white and white films.

A number of neurological disorders and diseases of other body systems are also characterized by similar symptoms. To make an accurate diagnosis, you should contact an ENT doctor and undergo an examination.

Diagnosis of pharyngitis

Diagnosis of all forms of pharyngitis is based on pharyngoscopy (visual examination of the pharynx) and medical history. The minimum diagnostic complex includes:

  • examination of a throat smear for diphtheria;
  • complete blood count to rule out blood diseases and infectious mononucleosis;
  • general urinalysis to rule out kidney disease (glomerulonephritis).

It is possible to use methods for specific diagnosis of GABHS.

  • Cultural examination - inoculation of taken materials on a nutrient medium.
  • Rapid diagnosis - identification of streptococcal antigen in throat swabs.
  • Immunoserological diagnosis - the method is specific in the case of streptococcal infection.

The feasibility of microbiological studies is determined depending on the presence/absence of:

  • cough;
  • fever;
  • plaque on the tonsils;
  • soreness of the cervical lymph nodes.

At the same time, diagnostic measures may be needed to identify concomitant diseases, additional consultations with other specialists: endocrinologist, cardiologist, allergist.

Treatment of pharyngitis

The treatment regimen for an ENT disease is determined by its etiology and type. The first task of all treatment methods is to relieve discomfort, therefore drugs with analgesic, antiseptic and antibacterial effects are actively used.

  • Infectious origin - rinsing, spraying the throat, taking tablets and lozenges. The specific drug is determined depending on the pathogen identified. To stimulate the immune system, the doctor may additionally prescribe immunomodulators.
  • Chronic pharyngitis - treatment begins with the sanitation of foci of infection. Surgical methods can also be used: laser coagulation, cryodestruction.
  • Atrophic pharyngitis is treated with rinses, inhalations, and taking iodine and vitamin A.

At the same time, measures are being taken to eliminate the causes of the disease. In the case of HF, treatment of diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, cardiovascular system, and hormonal disorders is prescribed.

In addition to drug treatment, otolaryngologists usually recommend:

  • gentle regime - talk less, breathe clean, warm, humidified air;
  • diet - exclusion of spicy, sour foods, carbonated drinks from the diet;
  • plenty of warm drinks - teas, compotes, decoctions, milk with honey.

It is also recommended to give up bad habits: smoking, drinking alcohol.

Pharyngitis during pregnancy

Almost all infectious diseases can cause complications during pregnancy. Acute, chronic pharyngitis in a pregnant woman is not just an unpleasant, painful sensation. Inflammatory processes in the pharynx can cause spontaneous miscarriage in the first weeks of pregnancy, and in the later stages contribute to the development of fetal hypoxia and cause premature birth.

The expectant mother should consult an ENT doctor at the first signs of inflammation. The otolaryngologist will prescribe the necessary diagnostic measures and select a treatment regimen taking into account the course of pregnancy.

Pharyngitis in children

Pharyngitis is very severe in young children; this disease is especially dangerous for babies under one year old. Sometimes OF in children is accompanied by an increase in temperature to 40 0. The child refuses to eat due to a sore throat. Swelling of the mucous membrane can cause symptoms of suffocation. The presence of a focus of inflammation in the pharynx in young children often leads to the development of acute otitis media.

An attempt at self-treatment can cause irreparable harm to the child’s fragile body. At the slightest suspicion of OF in a baby, you should immediately consult a doctor.

Complications of pharyngitis

If pharyngitis itself is not dangerous, then its complications are a serious threat. In the absence of adequate treatment, increased sensitivity to pathogens may develop. Streptococcal pharyngitis can provoke non-purulent and purulent complications.

  • Non-purulent - rheumatism (formation of inflammatory nodules in any tissue of the heart, musculoskeletal system), post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis.
  • Purulent - retropharyngeal or peritonsillar abscess. In the second case, sepsis may develop, which poses a threat to the patient’s life.

An apparently harmless disease can develop into:

  • inflammation of the cervical lymph nodes (cervical lymphadenitis) - is especially severe in adults;
  • inflammation of the salivary glands (sialoadenitis) - treatment may require surgery;
  • inflammation of the inner ear, auditory tube - threatens partial or complete hearing loss;
  • laryngitis - the focus of inflammation covers the mucous membrane of the larynx;
  • tracheitis - inflammation of the tracheal mucosa, which in turn can develop into bronchopneumonia, bronchitis;
  • chronic bronchitis - penetration of infection into the bronchi requires long-term treatment with antibiotics.

Untreated OF easily transforms into a chronic form.

Prevention of pharyngitis

The first main preventive measure is to follow the rules of a healthy lifestyle:

  • hardening the body - walking in the fresh air, playing sports, swimming;
  • giving up bad habits - smoking, drinking alcohol;
  • strengthening the immune system - introducing the maximum amount of vegetables and fruits into the diet, taking vitamin complexes (as prescribed by a doctor).

Doctors strongly recommend not inhaling frosty air through your mouth and protecting your respiratory system when in a gassy or dusty environment. A runny nose, dental caries, and diseases of the genitourinary system should be treated promptly. Any source of infection in the body “opens” the path to pharyngitis.

The second preventive measure can be called timely seeking qualified medical help if a sore throat, dryness, or sore throat occurs. Only an ENT specialist can, based on the results of diagnostic measures, prescribe competent treatment for pharyngitis.

Source: http://bezboleznej.ru/faringit