What causes a sore throat?

Dec 21, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Lu Cheng

Introduction

Sore throat refers to pain in the pharynx. Pharyngeal pain may be caused by factors such as dry environment, excessive voice use, spicy diet, acute pharyngitis, or acute tonsillitis. If discomfort occurs, timely medical attention is recommended. Under normal circumstances, ensure adequate sleep, with 7–8 hours per night, to enhance the body's immunity; engage in regular exercise, such as jogging or yoga, to improve overall physical health.

In general, a sore throat refers to pain in the pharynx (throat). Pharyngeal pain may be caused by factors such as dry environment, excessive voice use, dietary irritation, acute pharyngitis, or acute tonsillitis. If discomfort occurs, timely medical consultation is recommended. Detailed explanations are as follows:

1. Dry Environment

When the ambient humidity is low, the air continuously draws moisture from the pharyngeal mucosa, causing it to become dry and dehydrated, which can lead to pain. It is advisable to use a humidifier to increase indoor humidity and wear a protective mask when outdoors to reduce direct irritation of dry air on the throat.

2. Excessive Voice Use

Prolonged loud talking, singing, or shouting can cause fatigue in the throat muscles and frequent vibration and friction of the vocal cords, leading to congestion and swelling of the pharyngeal mucosa and resulting in pain. It is recommended to use your voice scientifically, avoid prolonged continuous vocalization, and drink water promptly to soothe the throat when experiencing dryness.

3. Dietary Irritation

Consuming excessive spicy or hot foods may directly irritate the pharyngeal mucosa, causing mucosal damage and resulting in a burning sensation and pain. A bland diet is recommended, with controlled intake of spicy and hot foods. Eating should be done at a slower pace to prevent thermal injury to the throat.

4. Acute Pharyngitis

Acute pharyngitis is mostly caused by viral infections, such as rhinovirus and adenovirus, with bacterial infections (commonly streptococcus) being secondary causes. Viruses and bacteria invading the pharyngeal mucosa trigger an inflammatory response, causing congestion and swelling of the mucosa, resulting in throat pain. Patients may also experience symptoms such as dryness and itching in the throat. Treatment may include medications such as Guilin Watermelon Frost tablets, Lanqin Oral Liquid, and Amoxicillin capsules, under a doctor's guidance.

5. Acute Tonsillitis

Acute tonsillitis is primarily caused by bacterial infections such as group A beta-hemolytic streptococcus. When the body's resistance decreases, pathogens invade, multiply, and attack the tonsillar crypts, causing swelling and pus formation in the tonsils, which compresses surrounding tissues and leads to throat pain. Symptoms such as high fever and difficulty swallowing may also occur. Patients may follow medical advice to use medications such as Penicillin V potassium tablets, ibuprofen sustained-release capsules, and compound chlorhexidine mouthwash for treatment.

Maintain adequate sleep, aiming for 7-8 hours per night, to enhance the body's resistance. Engage in regular exercise, such as aerobic activities like jogging or yoga, to improve overall physical fitness.

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Can roxithromycin capsules treat a sore throat?

In general, whether roxithromycin capsules can treat a sore throat depends on the specific circumstances. If the sore throat is caused by a bacterial infection, roxithromycin capsules may be needed. However, if it is caused by a viral infection or other non-bacterial factors, the use of roxithromycin is unnecessary and unlikely to have significant effect. To relieve discomfort from a sore throat, it is recommended to drink plenty of warm water daily.

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Can I take azithromycin for a sore throat and cough?

Common formulations of azithromycin include tablets, capsules, etc. Generally, whether azithromycin can be taken for sore throat and cough depends on the specific underlying cause. It can be used when the condition is caused by bacterial infection, but should not be used if caused by viral infection or non-infectious factors. The cause should be clearly identified before taking azithromycin to avoid inappropriate use. Dosage and duration of treatment must be strictly followed according to medical advice or the drug instructions.

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Is it effective to take azithromycin tablets for a sore throat?

Sore throat caused by infection with sensitive bacteria is often accompanied by symptoms such as redness and swelling of the pharynx, pus formation, and fever. Azithromycin inhibits bacterial protein synthesis, preventing bacterial replication, thereby reducing inflammation and relieving pain. It is particularly suitable for patients allergic to penicillin or those who cannot conveniently use other antibiotics, serving as an alternative treatment option. Moreover, it is typically taken once daily with a relatively short course of treatment.

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Can Lianhua Qingre Jiedu capsules be taken together with ibuprofen?

This combination is suitable for conditions caused by heat-toxin attacking the lungs, such as influenza presenting with fever, muscle aches, sore throat, and cough. Lianhua Qingwen Capsules can clear away epidemic toxins, resolve exterior symptoms, and relieve lung heat, thereby addressing the underlying cause and alleviating heat-toxin-related symptoms. Ibuprofen rapidly reduces fever and relieves pain. The two medications complement each other; when taken as directed by a physician, they can simultaneously address the root cause and relieve discomfort.