Laryngitis and pharyngitis : Common ailments of the throat

Laryngitis and pharyngitis : Common ailments of the throat

Among the many types of ailments that can affect the throat, the most common are laryngitis and pharyngitis. Whether viral or bacterial, both of these throat infections often share similar symptoms. In most cases, only those caused by bacteria require antibiotics.

Laryngitis

As its name suggests, laryngitis is caused by an inflammation of the larynx. The main symptoms are hoarseness of the voice, a tingling sensation in the back of the throat and a constant need to cough.

Causes of laryngitis

Laryngitis can be brought on by many factors:

  • Exposure to a smoky environment;
  • Excessive use of your voice, during a concert, for instance;
  • A consequence of another health problem, like a cold or the flu.

Treating laryngitis

The treatment for laryngitis depends on the nature of the problem. Most cases of laryngitis are viral. However, bacterial cases are often the result of a pre-existing infection, such as bronchitis. Antibiotics may then be prescribed to treat the illness. In all cases, getting plenty of rest is recommended. If other symptoms appear, however, or if these last more than two weeks, see your doctor.

Pharyngitis

Pharyngitis, which is an inflammation of the pharynx, can also have a viral or bacterial origin.

Symptoms of pharyngitis

In addition to a sore throat, the main symptoms of pharyngitis are similar to those of a cold – that is a runny nose and fever. Some people will also have purulent secretions near the pharynx or tonsils.

Treating pharyngitis

As with laryngitis, the treatment of pharyngitis may require antibiotics depending on its origin. In addition, failure to properly look after bacterial pharyngitis may lead to various other complications, such as ear or sinus infections.

To establish thetype of infection you have, a throat culture is taken, using a long cotton-swab-like instrument. The specimen is then analyzed by a lab, which allows the doctor to establish a clear diagnosis and an appropriate treatment plan.

Pharmacy services

Would you like to know more about pharyngitis and laryngitis and their treatment? Talk to your pharmacist. He’s there to help!

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