A sore throat is pain, discomfort, or dryness in the throat. This condition is a symptom or complaint that can caused by various interference or disease, one of which is a viral infection. Sore throat usually gets worse when eating and drinking.
Sore throats are most often caused by viral and bacterial infections. One type of virus that can cause sore throat complaints is the SARS-CoV-2 virus that causes COVID-19.
In general, some diseases that can cause symptoms in the form of a sore throat are:
- Tonsillitis, which is inflammation of the tonsils or tonsils
- Pharyngitis, namely inflammation of the tube that connects the nose or mouth with the esophagus (esophagus) or the channel where the vocal cords (larynx) are located
- Laryngitis, which is inflammation of the larynx
In some cases, a sore throat can also be a sign of a more serious illness, such as:
- Infectious mononucleosis, which is an Epstein Barr virus infection characterized by enlarged lymph nodes, fever, and sore throat
- peritonsillar abscess, which is a purulent swelling that occurs on the roof of the throat and the back of the tonsils
- Epiglottitis, which is inflammation of the epiglottis or the valve that separates the respiratory tract from the digestive tract
- COVID-19, which is a Corona virus infection that attacks the respiratory tract and causes various symptoms, including flu, sore throat, fever, cough, and shortness of breath
If you have a sore throat and need a COVID-19 test, click the link below so you can be directed to the nearest health facility:
- Rapid Test Antibodies
- Antigen Swab (Rapid Test Antigen)
- PCR
Sore Throat Symptoms and Causes
When experiencing a sore throat, a person can feel complaints in the form of:
- Discomfort or pain in the throat
- Burning feeling in the throat
- Difficult to swallow
- Hoarseness
As described above, a sore throat is a symptom of a variety of conditions or diseases. In addition to infectious diseases, sore throats can also be caused by allergies, stomach acid disease, or tumors in the throat.
Sore throat is one of the early symptoms of Corona virus infection. To determine whether the sore throat experienced is a symptom of the Corona virus, a rapid test or PCR is needed. To find a place to do a rapid test or PCR around your home, click here.
Sore Throat Treatment and Prevention
Sore throats can generally be treated by drinking plenty of water and getting enough rest. However, if the symptoms persist, see a doctor immediately to get the right treatment.
Your doctor can give you paracetamol to relieve pain in your throat or prescribe antibiotics if your sore throat is caused by a bacterial infection.
In addition to treatment, there are several ways to prevent a sore throat, namely:
- Avoid sharing eating and drinking utensils with others
- Avoid contact with sick people
- Wash your hands regularly