The arrival of winter usually entails an increase in respiratory infections, of which the faringoamigdalitis is one of the most common. Unlike laryngitis, which is an inflammation of the larynx, this is an inflammation of the pharynx and adjacent lymphatic tissuessuch as the tonsils (also known by the common angina).
The infection can be caused by a virus or bacteriaso the symptoms can vary slightly, but they are usually fever, headache, sore throat, malaise, and lack of appetite.
Bacterial, usually due to streptococci, is recognized because it also presents red and white spots in the throat, pain in the lower part of the stomach, difficulty swallowing and in some cases skin rashes.
Although it has always been said that the origin of this disease is due to cold, drafts or drinking very cold liquids or eating ice cream, contagion is produced by aerosols (when a sick person coughs or sneezes near the newly infected person) or by direct contact. However, the cold does help bacteria and especially viruses have free rein, since defenses are reduced.
To prevent contagion, as in any infectious respiratory disease, it is advisable to keep distanceavoid direct contact with the sick, wear masks and exercise extreme hygiene of the hands and the clothes of the sick.
Viral tonsillopharyngitis should not be treated with antibiotics, since they do not affect them, while if it is bacterial they can be prescribed by a doctor.