Sore throats are common by themselves or as part of another illness like a cold or flu. Children are especially prone to contraction from other children. There are a few symptoms to identify a sore throat and it is important to know if it is a viral or bacterial infection. A doctor should be considered when the level of pain is high and when the sore throat is paired with other symptoms such as dizziness, nausea or a headache.
Significance
Sore throats can come from a variety of places effect people in many different ways. It is important to identify the symptoms of a throat to know if it is an infection, virus, bacterial, or another variety of soreness. A sore throat could be simply that--just a sore throat--or it could also be a symptom of some other type of infection going on in the body such as the flu. Seeing a doctor to test for strep throat is a common practice and important in the healing process.
Identification
A sore throat will vary depending on the site of the soreness as well as the intensity of the pain. The pain may spread to the ears and a fever may also ensue when one is sick. The tonsils and lymph nodes may swell due to the infection and there is sometimes a coating on the soft palate and tonsils. Certain viruses can cause blisters to form on the tonsils and soft palate and will erupt then scab, which causes pain.
Complications
According to NetDoctor.co.uk, further complications can arise from having a sore throat. A secondary infection can develop in the middle ear which will cause more pain and further treatment. Sinus or chest infections may also occur and will have to be treated. If the sore throat is due to a virus called streptococcus, a rash may form. Swollen glands in the neck and throat also may affect breathing.
Contract
Sore throats are usually caused by bacteria or a virus. The viral infections come from a person to person contractual basis. Coughing, sneezing, or not washing ones hands can all be ways to spread the virus. If it is a bacterial infection, the soreness may occur up to four days before being able to be diagnosed as a bacterial infection. The most common type of bacterial infection is the streptococcus group A.
Treatment
There are natural home remedies that are recommended for treating mild sore throats. Gargling lukewarm salt water is a common practice to help ease the pain of a sore throat. Also, simply drinking warm liquids may help subside the pain. For bacterial or viral infections, antibiotics may be prescribed. Penicillin may be used or even ibuprofen to ease the pain and get rid of the infection. Over the counter sprays and numbing agents can be recommended by a doctor.
Tags: sore throat, bacterial infection, come from, common practice, ease pain, soft palate