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What causes a sore throat?

Aug 29, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Lu Cheng
Introduction
In general, a sore throat refers to pain in the pharynx. Sore throat may be related to excessive use of the vocal cords, environmental factors, acute pharyngitis, tonsillitis, gastroesophageal reflux, and other factors. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly for symptomatic treatment. Patients should rest their vocal cords, stay hydrated, maintain adequate sleep, and avoid spicy or irritating foods to help alleviate symptoms.

Generally, a sore throat refers to pain in the pharynx or throat. Throat pain may be related to overuse of the vocal cords, environmental factors, acute pharyngitis, tonsillitis, gastroesophageal reflux, and other causes. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly for symptomatic treatment. Specific analyses are as follows:

1. Overuse of the vocal cords

Speaking loudly, singing, or shouting for prolonged periods may lead to vocal cord fatigue and cause throat pain. It is recommended to rest the voice and maintain adequate hydration.

2. Environmental factors

Dryness, pollution, or exposure to smoke can irritate the throat's mucous membranes, leading to pharyngeal pain. It is advisable to keep indoor air humidified and wear a mask to reduce inhalation of harmful substances.

3. Acute pharyngitis

Viral or bacterial infections may invade the mucous membranes of the throat, causing acute pharyngitis. Inflammation can result in redness, swelling, and pain in the throat, possibly accompanied by fever, cough, and difficulty swallowing. Patients are advised to take medications such as ribavirin tablets, oseltamivir phosphate capsules, or compound houttuynia liquid under medical guidance.

4. Tonsillitis

The tonsils, as part of the immune system, may develop an inflammatory response when affected by bacterial or viral infections, leading to swelling and pain that causes throat discomfort. Symptoms may include fever and painful swallowing. Patients may follow medical advice to use medications such as Pudilan anti-inflammatory oral liquid, ibuprofen sustained-release tablets, or Houercuan anti-inflammatory granules to relieve symptoms.

5. Gastroesophageal reflux

Gastroesophageal reflux may arise from impaired anti-reflux barriers in the esophagus or inadequate clearance of acid. Stomach acid flowing back into the esophagus may reach the throat, irritating the mucous membranes and causing inflammation and throat pain. Symptoms may include a burning sensation behind the breastbone, acid regurgitation, and belching. Patients are advised to take medications such as Huangqi Jianzhong pills, Weikangling capsules, or Weisu granules under medical supervision.

Patients are advised to rest their vocal cords, stay well hydrated, maintain sufficient sleep, and avoid spicy or irritating foods, which may help improve symptoms.

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