Sore Throat
A sore throat is generally caused by an infection, either viral or bacterial. These infections are typically contagious and are easily transmitted between people via airborne pathogens due to coughing, mouth to mouth transmission, or mouth to hand to hand to mouth transmission, among others. A sore throat is a symptom of viruses such as the flu, the common cold, mononucleosis, or bacteria such as strep, mycoplasma, or hemophilus. It can often be transmitted in densely populated areas such as New York or New Jersey.
Bacterial infections that cause sore throats can be treated by antibiotics. Strep throat, caused by the bacteria, streptococcus, is one of the most common types of bacterial infection. It can also cause rheumatic fever, nephritis, scarlet fever, ear infections, sinusitis, pneumonia and tonsillitis. The most dangerous type of bacterial throat infection is epiglottis. This potentially deadly infection causes the airways in the throat to swell, and must be treated immediately.
Viral infections of the throat may not be treated by antibiotics. Instead, the body must build antibodies to fight and eventually destroy the virus. This process takes several weeks, but after the virus is defeated, the body retains the ability to produce antibodies and will not be as susceptible to further infections.
Mononucleosis is a viral infection that can last several months, and requires medical attention. It causes the patient to feel weak and lethargic as it infects the lymph system.
Sore throats may also be caused by allergies. Pollens and molds that irritate the nose may also aggravate the throat when inhaled. Animal dander or common household dust can also cause sore throats in those with allergies to them.
Reflux, the regurgitation of stomach acids, can cause sore throats as well. In order to prevent this, it is important to elevate the head above the feet at least 6-inches while sleeping. Antacids will also help to alleviate this condition.
Tumors of the tongue, larynx, mouth and throat may also cause sore throats. Such tumors are usually caused by longer term smoking or tobacco use. Pain radiating from the ear through the throat, chronic throat irritation, a bump on the neck, sudden weight loss, or bloody saliva can all be indications of this type of tumor.
Dry or hot conditions can create throat irritation, especially in the mornings. Other potential irritants include alcoholic beverages, smoke, chemicals in the air, or even spicy foods. Yelling can also cause throat pain due to the straining it causes to throat muscles as well as to the rough treatment of membranes in the throat.
Visit a doctor if you have severe symptoms, chronic pain, or irritation in the throat in order to mitigate the extent of your condition.
Copyright ENT and Allergy Associates, LLP
Physicians:
04/15/2010
