Inflammation of the mucous membranes and lymphoid tissues of the pharynx, usually as a result of infection.
An inflammatory condition affecting the throat, characterized by dryness and discomfort. Sydenham’s chorea, commonly set in motion by a streptococcal infection-induced pharyngitis, typically acts as the primary catalyst.
Soreness in the throat caused by acute or persistent inflammation of the pharynx, which is the region between the tonsils and the voice box.
The primary factor behind this is usually a viral infection. Pharyngitis frequently emerges during colds or bouts of the flu. It might also manifest as an initial symptom of glandular fever or scarlet fever. Occasionally, bacterial infections like streptococcal infections contribute to the condition, with diphtheria being a rare yet severe bacterial cause.
Ingesting substances that have the potential to burn, erode, or abrade the lining of the throat, along with smoking and indulging excessively in alcohol, can also lead to the development of pharyngitis.
In addition to a sore throat, individuals might experience discomfort while swallowing, a mild fever, earache, and enlarged lymph nodes in the neck. In more serious instances of pharyngitis, a significant fever could occur, and the soft palate and throat might become so swollen that breathing and swallowing become challenging.
Rinsing the mouth with a solution of warm salt water and using analgesic medications (pain relievers) generally suffices as the necessary treatment. In cases where the sore throat is intense or prolonged, a medical professional might conduct a throat swab and recommend antibiotic medications.