In most cases, the first sign of a throat infection is a sore throat. A sore throat causes a scratchy, excruciating feeling in the back of the throat. Speaking and swallowing may cause pain if you have a sore throat. So what causes it?
Numerous factors, like bacterial and viral allergens, can result in sore throats. The majority of sore throat symptoms go in a few days. But if your sore throat persists for over a week, worsens, or you experience symptoms like fever or enlarged lymph nodes, you should see a doctor.
Signs of a throat infection
Other than a sore throat, other indications of a throat infection include the following:
- A painful throat
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Fever
- Headache
- Stuffy nose or nasal congestion
- Fatigue
- Hoarseness
- Pain when talking or swallowing.
You should contact your doctor immediately if your symptoms intensify or become severe. Severity may be in the form of a fever of more than 38°C, joint pain, or blood in the saliva in addition to the symptoms described above. This could indicate a larger problem that could negatively affect your health.
Common causes of throat infections
Viral infections, including the flu or the common cold, cause most sore throats. However, the following illnesses or problems may all cause sore throats as a symptom:
Bacteria
Bacterial and viral sore throats can make it painful to swallow, but they are more likely to be accompanied by red, swollen tonsils that you can see at the back of your throat. There might also be white streaks or areas of pus visible. Although not what is expected for this type of illness, the presence of those symptoms suggests one. Additionally, strep throat can also be associated with bacterial throat infections.
Streptococcus
Many strains of bacteria, viruses, and allergens can cause sore throats, but the well-known strep throat or pharyngitis results when streptococcus infects the throat. The so-called group A streptococcus, which causes acute and excruciating throat irritation, is to blame.
When a throat-infected person coughs or sneezes, the bacteria can get into the air and be inhaled. It can enter the body via an open wound or droplets released into the environment. Crowded and enclosed areas are more conducive to the spread of infections. Strep throat medication is necessary to treat this kind of infection.
Virus
The symptoms of a typical cold are more frequently present, along with a viral throat infection. Coughing is an excellent way to distinguish a viral infection from a throat infection. Other symptoms of a viral throat infection include visible swelling of the throat, fever, sneezing, cough, runny nose, headache, and body aches.
Treatment of throat infections
Most sore throats resolve on their own in a few days. Antibiotics are necessary to treat bacterial infections like strep throat. It’s important to be aware of your symptoms and use the appropriate treatment to be effective for your infection. This is because the medications needed to treat each ailment vary.
If you have any concerns, speak with a qualified medical practitioner to schedule a consultation to get the right treatment for your symptoms
