Can pharyngitis cause referred pain in the front chest and back?

Pharyngitis may cause referred pain in the front and back of the chest.

Pharyngitis refers to inflammatory changes in the pharynx and larynx, characterized by congestion, edema, and inflammatory exudation of the mucous membranes. Causes include viral or bacterial infections, physical or chemical irritants, and laryngopharyngeal reflux. If not treated promptly, it may lead to local mucosal hyperplasia or even atrophy, clinically known as chronic pharyngitis. The main symptom is sore throat, which worsens during swallowing. If the inflammation involves the larynx, symptoms such as hoarseness and cough may occur.

In some individual cases, patients may experience reflexive back pain. Additionally, systemic symptoms such as chills, fever, dizziness, chest or back pain, and chest tightness may also be present. Infection can be controlled under medical guidance with medications such as penicillin V potassium tablets, amoxicillin capsules, and acyclovir tablets. Oral vitamin AD softgel capsules and vitamin B2 tablets may also be taken to promote epithelial regeneration of the pharyngeal mucosa.

It is recommended that patients with pharyngitis actively identify underlying triggers and treat the primary condition to achieve rapid symptom relief.