Types of Sore Throat

Viral Pharyngitis: Viruses like influenza and COVID-19 cause it. Viral pharyngitis is typically accompanied by fever and other symptoms, including weakness, fatigue, and muscle aches. Viral infections can cause complications, such as pneumonia; therefore, they require immediate medical attention and proper treatment at an early stage.

Bacterial Pharyngitis: Bacterial pharyngitis is caused by various types of bacteria, most commonly Streptococcus. It can be associated with fever, chills, swollen lymph nodes, and cough. It requires immediate medical attention to avoid the severity of infection. 

Allergic Sore Throat: This type of sore throat is triggered by exposure to smoke, dust, dry air, and pollution. Cold water, canned drinks, and oily food can also cause a sore throat.

Tonsillitis-related Sore Throat: Tonsillitis is a condition characterised by inflammation of the tonsils. Viruses or bacteria can cause this inflammation, and it is typically associated with fever, difficulty swallowing, and the development of white patches on the tonsils. 

Causes and Risk Factors of Sore Throat 

• Viral infections such as influenza, COVID-19 19 etc 
• Bacterial infections, such as Streptococcus infections 
• Allergies
• Air pollution
• Excessive use of voice or shouting
• Gastroesophageal reflux disease can be a reason behind a sore throat 
• Weak immunity in patients like those with HIV, TB 
• Close contact with an infected individual can lead to the transmission of infection from one person to another. 

Symptoms of Sore Throat 

• Pain or burning sensation in the throat 
• Difficulty in swallowing due to pain
• Redness of the throat 
• Swollen glands in the neck area
• Change in voice or hoarseness of voice
• Fever with chills
• Cough, runny nose and sneezing
• Headache and fatigue 
• White patches or the formation of pus on the tonsils. 

Diagnosis of Sore Throat 

• Based on physical examination and medical history 
• Blood tests, such as a Complete Blood Count (CBC) or Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate (ESR), are performed to rule out infection. 
• Throat swab or Rapid antigen test 
• Throat culture

Treatment of sore throat

• Oral medications
• Intravenous medications
• Intensive care in the case of the ICU 

Diet and Lifestyle for Sore Throat Relief 

• Drink warm fluids like soups, herbal tea, etc
• Understand the allergy triggers and avoid them. 
• Avoid smoking or exposure to smoke.
• Get adequate sleep
• Stay hydrated, drink 7-8 litres of water
• Do pranayam

Throat pain may seem like a harmless issue at first, but the symptoms can worsen within a short period. Most often, the cause of a sore throat is an infection; therefore, consult a doctor as soon as possible whenever you develop such symptoms. Self-medication is harmful in such situations; consider a doctor’s advice and guidance for a rapid recovery.