MyMediktor - Viral tonsillopharyngitis

Very low urgency

Very common-

Inflammation of the pharynx and tonsils due to a viral infection.

It starts as a common cold with cough followed by slight pain when swallowing. It is seldom accompanied by fever, pus in the tonsils or swollen lymph nodes on the neck.

Diagnosis is clinical, through questioning and physical examination. In some cases, laboratory tests may be ordered to differentiate it from a bacterial infection.

As it is a viral infection, it is not treated with antibiotics. It is advisable to reduce the local pain with regular painkillers and ensuring proper hydration.

Bibliographic references

Anthony W Chow, Shira Doron. Evaluation of acute pharyngitis in adults. UpToDate. Jan 04, 2016.
Huovinen P, Lahtonen R, Ziegler T, et al. Pharyngitis in adults: the presence and coexistence of viruses and bacterial organisms. Ann Intern Med 1989; 110:612.
Alcaide ML, Bisno AL. Pharyngitis and epiglottitis. Infect Dis Clin North Am 2007; 21:449.

Author

Dr. Oscar Garcia-Esquirol

Symptoms

Red or swollen tonsils

Irritation or inflammation of the throat

Sore throat

Dry cough

Fever / Feel very hot

Symptoms to watch out for

Fever that doesn't subside with antipyretics (paracetamol, ibuprofen)

Inability to swallow

Neck swelling

History of immunodeficiency (HIV, diabetes mellitus, oncological disorders, long-term corticosteroid consumption).

Difficulty breathing

Self-care

Consume over-the-counter analgesics and antipyretics in case of muscle pain or fever (Tº > 38ºC).

Relative rest, rest until symptoms subside.

Do not take antibiotics without medical advice.

Maintain hydration of 2 litres per day.

Drink hot beverages (e.g. tea with honey or lemon or chicken soup).