Posted on 23rd Aug 2024
Pharyngitis which is commonly known as throat infection, is a frequent ailment because of which you might feel discomfort, it can also cause further disruption in your daily life. The throat infection usually ranges from a mild irritation to a severe condition that may require medical attention. To prevent throat infections you need to understand the causes of throat infections and implement a prompt treatment accordingly. This blog revolves around the primary causes of throat infections, their symptoms and preventive measures to maintain throat health.
It is one of the primary causes of throat infections or sore throat or. Streptococcus pyogenes is the bacteria which causes the throat infection. You can identify a strep throat by a sudden, severe sore throat, pain when swallowing and at times an individual might as well suffer from a fever. Other bacterias like Neisseria gonorrhoeae and Corynebacterium diphtheria which are also proven to infect the throat.
Often, bacterial throat infections are more severe than viral infections and at times, throat infections do require antibiotics treatment. In order to prevent or treat the throat infection you will need a prompt medical diagnosis and treatment which will further defenestrate the complications such as rheumatic fever or kidney inflammation.
The common cold is usually caused by the rhinoviruses and the flu is caused by the influenza virus which further leads to sore throats. Infection can also be caused due to other viruses like Epstein-Barr virus and the Coronavirus (including SARS-CoV-2, which also causes COVID-19).
In most of the cases you might not need antibiotics to cure the sore throat. Symptoms of throat infection include runny nose, cough and sometimes fever. Rest, hydration and over-the-counter pain relievers can help you alleviate the symptoms.
There are very few scenarios where fungal infections cause throat infections, but on the other hand it can occur in the individuals who possess a weakened immune system. Candida albicans, the fungus which is responsible for thrush can also cause sore throat, white patches in mouth and additionally, you can even face difficulty in swallowing. If an individual is suffering from diabetes, undergoing chemotherapy or taking certain medications such as corticosteroids are more prone to fungal infections.
There are various environmental factors which can contribute to the throat infection. Dry air can dry out your throat especially if you are in an air-conditioned space or at a place where there is winter. Furthermore, if you are exposed to pollutants such as cigarette smoke, industrial chemicals and dust, all of the above can irritate the throat and lead to infection.
In order to prevent infections you need to maintain a humid environment which can further avoid irritants and can help you in preventing throat infections which are related to environmental factors.
If you are allergic to pollen, dust mites, pet dander and mold, it can cause post nasal drip, where excess mucus runs down the back of the throat. This can further lead to throat irritation and infection. Allergic rhinitis which is also commonly known as hay fever is one of the most prevalent causes of throat discomfort during allergy seasons.
In order to reduce the risk of throat infections, managing allergies with antihistamines, nasal sprays and avoiding allergens can prove to be beneficial.
GERD is a condition where stomach acid flows back into the esophagus which can further cause a sore throat. The acid in-turn irritates the lining of the esophagus and throat which additionally leads to symptoms like heartburn, a persistent cough and a hoarse voice. Chronic GERD can damage the throat and it can also lead to recurrent infections.
You can manage GERD and reduce the risk of associated throat infections just by making some changes in your lifestyle, modifying your diet and apt medications.
It is also known as mono and it is caused by the Epstein-Barr virus. It is also known as ‘kissing disease’ as it spreads through saliva. Symptoms of the same include a severe sore throat, swollen lymph nodes, fever and fatigue. You might also suffer prolonged throat pain which in-turn requires rest and supportive care for recovery.
In case of oral sexual contact your throat can be infected by certain STIs such as gonorrhea and chlamydia. You might have to suffer a sore throat and it may also require specific antibiotic treatments. In order to prevent these types of infections you need to regularly go to the STI screenings.
Common symptoms of throat infections include:
Diagnosis of the same often includes a physical examination, throat swabs to identify bacterial or viral infections and sometimes you will also have to undergo blood tests for specific conditions like mono.
Having a healthy diet might not always solve the puzzle when it comes to conquering a sore throat. If you need additional relief then you might have to consider lozenges like Cofsils which are available in five delicious flavors, Orange, Lemon, Honey, Ginger Lemon, Fresh Mint and Tulsi Pudina. Furthermore, Cofsil Lozenges offer a triple threat approach:
Anti-viral protection: Some of the flavors might include ingredients which can help in fighting the viruses that can cause coughs.
Anti-bacterial defense: Additionally, it can also help kill bacteria in your throat which can further reduce irritation and promote healing.
Soothing relief: It can also help you to stimulate saliva production as you suck on a lozenge which tends to soothe a scratchy throat and ease coughing.