Pharyngitis

Christopher Hobbs:

“Pharyngitis is an inflammation of the pharynx, the upper part of the throat which connects to the esophagus up to the base of the skull. This ailment usually produces a sore throat and can be associated with tonsillitis.”

Etiologic and Other Factors Leading to Pharyngitis

Pharyngitis, or a sore throat, is inflammation of the pharynx caused by various factors:

1. Infectious Causes:
   • Viral: Most common, caused by viruses like rhinovirus, influenza, Epstein-Barr virus (mononucleosis), or COVID-19.
   • Bacterial: Most notably Streptococcus pyogenes (group A strep), which can cause strep throat.
   • Fungal: Rare, but can occur in immunocompromised individuals.
2. Non-Infectious Causes:
   • Allergies (e.g., pollen, dust, pet dander).
   • Irritants (e.g., smoke, pollution, chemicals).
   • Dry air, especially in winter.
   • Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
   • Overuse or strain of vocal cords.
3. Other Factors:
   • Autoimmune diseases (e.g., Sjögren’s syndrome).
   • Underlying conditions like tumors in the throat.

When to Seek Professional Help

Consider seeking medical attention if you notice the following:

• Severe or persistent sore throat lasting more than 5–7 days.
• Difficulty breathing, swallowing, or opening the mouth.
• High fever (over 101°F or 38.3°C) or chills.
• Swelling in the neck or face.
• White patches or pus on the tonsils (sign of strep throat or other infection).
• Skin rash (potential scarlet fever associated with strep).
• Ear pain or joint pain.
• Blood in saliva or phlegm.
• Recurrent sore throats or a family history of throat cancer.