Methods of treating sore throat associated with various diseases
Pharyngitis.This disease is characterized by inflammation of the pharynx mucosa. The main symptom of pharyngitis is throat discomfort (burning sensation and dryness, irritation, hoarseness); the pain may become more intense during swallowing. A dry cough appears, and the body temperature rises if the inflammation is marked. The main cause of pharyngitis is bacterial or viral infection. Usually pharyngitis is treated locally with drugs eliminating pharyngalgia – gargle solutions; antiseptic and anti-inflammatory sprays; warm inhalations; antihistamines; voice care and adherence to the doctor's recommendations. To prevent complications, antibacterial agents may be prescribed.
Laryngitis.This is an acute inflammation of larynx mucosa. The main causes of the disease are bacterial and viral infections. Laryngitis may be a result of SARS (severe acute respiratory syndrome), eating cold food, body overcooling, vocal load and other irritating factors. Most common complaints in case of laryngitis are hoarseness, irritation, discomfort in the throat, dry cough, followed by sputum discharge. The treatment is based on keeping silent until the acute inflammation is over as well as use of topical medicines. Doctor may prescribe antibiotics if streptococcal and pneumococcal origin is confirmed.
Tonsillitis.The acute form of this disease is characterized by inflammation of palatine tonsils (glands). The main cause of the disease is bacteria (staphylococcus, streptococcus, etc.).Acute tonsillitis is a common complication of seasonal colds (SARS). It is usually characterized with sore throat, fever, acute pain when swallowing, swollen tonsils, yellowish purulency-like deposits on tonsils and tongue, enlarged lymph nodes palpated under the lower jaw close to the neck. Sore throat is treated with various gargles, pain-reducing pastilles and sprays, washing salt solutions. Depending on the type of tonsillitis, doctor may prescribe antibiotics, antihistamines and other drugs.
Adenoiditis.This is an acute inflammation of the pharyngeal tonsil located in the upper part of the back of the throat. Most often the disease attacks children because the adenoidal tissue proliferates in childhood usually disappears completely by the age of 20. This disease may accompany a viral infection or overchilling. Inflammation and swelling of the pharyngeal tonsil cause breathing disturbances and hinder normal mucous outflow from the nose. An acute form of this disease in small children starts with fever (39–40°С) accompanied by vomiting and diarrhoea. The main symptoms of adenoiditis include: troubled nasal breathing, increased nasal secretions, hypernasal voice. The disease is treated with systemic or local anti-inflammatory drugs.
