Pharyngitis is characterized by inflammation of the throat (pharynx). In society, this disease is popularly known as "strep throat". Pharyngitis disease often makes sufferers feel pain and itching in the throat or difficulty swallowing.
Pharyngitis can be transmitted to other people. If you are exposed to this disease, you are advised to wear a mask to prevent transmission, as well as to protect you from exposure to dust or germs.
Recognize the Causes and Symptoms of Pharyngitis
Pharyngitis disease can be caused by viruses and bacteria, but most occur due to viral infections. Some examples of viruses and bacteria that can cause this condition are:
- Adenovirus
- The virus that causes measles
- The virus that causes chickenpox
- Viruses that cause disease croup
- Bacteria Bordetella pertussis, causes of whooping cough or pertussis
- Bacteria Streptococcus group A
Symptoms that accompany pharyngitis can vary, depending on the cause. In addition to feeling pain or itching in the throat, people with pharyngitis can also experience:
- Cough
- Sneezing and runny nose
- Fever
- Headache
- Joint pain and muscle pain
- Hoarseness
- No appetite
- Swollen lymph nodes
Pharyngitis caused by a viral infection usually does not cause coughing up phlegm. These symptoms are more common in pharyngitis due to bacterial infection.
Although rare, in certain bacterial infections, strep throat can also be accompanied by symptoms such as sores or the formation of a grayish white membrane in the throat. This condition can be dangerous and requires immediate medical attention.
Understand CHow to treat pharyngitis
Pharyngitis disease should be treated according to the cause. Pharyngitis caused by viruses usually does not require special drugs and will heal on its own within 5-7 days. Doctors will only prescribe pain relievers, such as paracetamol, to relieve pain and fever.
However, if the pharyngitis is caused by bacteria, your doctor may prescribe antibiotics, such as amoxicillin and penicillin. The dose of antibiotics will be determined by the doctor based on the patient's age, weight, and overall health condition.
If antibiotics are given, you must finish them. Usually, antibiotics should be finished within 7–10 days. The use of antibiotics that are not used up or not according to the doctor's advice can make bacteria even become resistant to these drugs.
There are several ways you can do at home to relieve the symptoms of pharyngitis, including:
- Drink at least 8 glasses of warm water a day to keep your throat moist and prevent dehydration.
- Consumption of foods and drinks that can soothe the throat, such as chicken soup and warm tea mixed with honey.
- Gargle with salt water (½ teaspoon salt mixed with a glass of water).
- If you have one, use a humidifier at home to avoid dry air, which can irritate your throat.
- Avoid cigarette smoke.
Do Prevention of Pharyngitis Disease
Pharyngitis can be transmitted. Therefore, you can protect yourself from this disease by preventing its transmission. The way is quite simple, namely avoiding germs that cause and always maintaining personal hygiene.
Avoid sharing food or using the same eating utensils with people who have pharyngitis. You can also use a mask if you are near someone who has pharyngitis, especially if the symptoms are accompanied by sneezing or coughing.
Wash your hands regularly with soap and water, and don't touch your nose, mouth or face with dirty hands. If soap and water are not available, you can use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
Although pharyngitis itself is not dangerous, there are several dangerous diseases that can cause symptoms such as strep throat or pharyngitis. Therefore, if you experience symptoms of pharyngitis, such as sore throat, difficulty swallowing, and fever, you should consult a doctor.