2023-10-09 12:40:00
“Sore Throat: More Than Just An Annoyance”
Sore throats are a common ailment that can cause significant discomfort and hinder daily activities. However, doctors are warning that this seemingly harmless symptom could be a sign of a more serious underlying condition.
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Paraya Asanasen from the Department of Rhinology and Allergy at the Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital explains that a sore throat can manifest in various ways depending on its cause. Symptoms may include pain, burning or irritation in the throat, difficulty swallowing, a dry sensation, and even changes in the voice. In some cases, the pain may radiate to the ears. Other visual signs may include redness of the throat lining, swollen tonsils with white or yellow pus spots, and enlarged and painful lymph nodes in the neck.
When caused by a respiratory infection, a sore throat may be accompanied by fever, chills, coughing, headache, body aches, pain in the ears, a hoarse voice, clear mucus, stuffy nose, itching, sneezing, phlegm, bad breath, red conjunctivitis, stomach pain, diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting. Various viruses and bacteria, such as the common cold, influenza, strep throat, bronchitis, measles, chicken pox, herpes, tonsillitis, and laryngitis, can be responsible for these symptoms.
However, not all sore throats are caused by infections. Acid reflux, excessive use of the voice, allergic and non-allergic rhinitis, chronic inflammation of the vocal cords, nerve diseases, throat tumors, foreign objects lodged in the throat, and exposure to irritants like smoke, dust, or chemicals can also lead to sore throat symptoms.
When seeking treatment for a sore throat caused by a viral infection, doctors usually focus on symptom management. This may involve prescribing lozenges, throat gargles, or sprays to soothe the throat and increase moisture. Pain relief and fever-reducing medications, such as paracetamol and NSAIDs, may also be recommended, along with nasal decongestants or antihistamines if needed.
If a bacterial infection is identified as the cause, the doctor will typically prescribe antimicrobial therapy or anti-inflammatory drugs for a specified period of time, especially if the infection is caused by Streptococcus. This is crucial to prevent complications like rheumatic fever or acute glomerulonephritis.
Chronic sore throats require a more thorough examination, including a detailed medical history, physical examination, and possibly an endoscopy to accurately diagnose the underlying cause. It is important for individuals with chronic coughs to avoid self-treatment with antimicrobial drugs or anti-inflammatory medicine, as this may not target the actual cause and could potentially lead to drug resistance.
In conclusion, a sore throat should not be ignored, as it can signify more than just a minor inconvenience. Seeking medical attention and proper diagnosis is essential to identify and address any underlying conditions contributing to the symptoms. Stay vigilant and prioritize your health when faced with a sore throat.
Source: Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital]
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