Throat Infection: Symptoms, Causes and Treatment

A bacterial or viral infection can cause a throat infection, commonly referred to as pharyngitis. Inflammation of the throat’s tissues results in redness, discomfort, and swelling of the structures. Food is sent to the oesophagus and air is transported to the windpipe through the throat, or pharynx. Nasal or oral routes can be used to assess a throat infection. While bacteria can also cause some of these infections, viruses account for the majority of them. Streptococcal bacteria bring on the infamous and excruciating ailment known as strep throat.

Pain and a feeling of heat in the throat are the most typical symptoms of a throat infection. The tonsils, in particular, may be impacted, among other throat structures. From mild to severe, symptoms can include fever, coughing, congestion, and other flu-like symptoms such as body aches. Additionally, enlarged lymph nodes in the neck are a possibility. Certain medical professionals may make a tonsillitis diagnosis if the infection is limited to the tonsils.

Types

A throat infection can be categorised into three types

• Viral Pharyngitis: The most frequent infectious cause of a sore throat is a viral infection of the throat, often called viral pharyngitis. Inflammation is triggered by it, and it could potentially cause cold symptoms.
• Tonsillitis: Tonsillitis is a severe form of pharyngitis that can be brought on by either a viral or bacterial infection. Pain, redness, swelling, and a buildup of pus or debris in the tonsils are all signs of tonsillitis.
• Strep/Bacterial Pharyngitis: Bacterial infections are not a common cause of throat infections. However, group A Streptococcus bacteria are responsible for the majority of these bacterial infections, and the painful throat that results from them is usually referred to as “strep throat.” A pus-filled tonsil or throat is a common sign of bacterial pharyngitis. 

Symptoms

Symptoms of different types of throat infections are frequently identical. Among them are:

• Soreness throughout the body
• Coughing up mucus that is clear, yellow, light brown, or green
• Trouble swallowing 
• Sore throat or congestion
• Swollen lymph nodes or tonsils
• Fever and chills
• White or pus-covered tonsils 
• Hoarseness
• Nasal congestion

Depending on the cause and severity of the infection, you may not experience all of these symptoms. Each of these symptoms has the potential to get worse occasionally.

Causes

The most common cause of throat infection is a viral illness, such as the flu or the common cold. The following illnesses or problems may be indicated by sore throats:

• Bacterial Infection: Throat infection can result from bacterial infections, such as strep throat and bacterial sinus infections.
• Allergies: Another major cause of throat infection is allergies. The throat might get scratchy and dry due to an allergic reaction to mold, dust mites, pollen, or pets. Throat infections from post-nasal drip or the dropping of nasal mucus down the back of the throat are caused by allergies. The throat becomes painful and irritated due to the mucus.
• Tonsillitis: The two tiny lumps of soft tissue at the back of your throat are called tonsils, and they are the source of tonsillitis. The pathogenic microbes are captured by them. The result of an infected and inflamed tonsil is tonsillitis, which can be caused by both bacteria and viruses.
• Acid Reflux: Patients suffering from gastroesophageal reflux disorder (GERD) experience throat pain and burning, which can mimic prime symptoms of throat infection. Acid reflux from the stomach causes this sensation, known as heartburn, when it backs up into your oesophagus.
• Viruses: A virus is responsible for 80% of instances of throat infection. These kinds of viruses are usually spread by direct physical touch or by coughing, sneezing, or through communication.

Is Sore Throat a Symptom of Cancer?

A sore throat can sometimes be a sign of throat cancer, especially if it lasts a long time and doesn’t improve with treatment. That said, most sore throats are caused by much less serious things, like a cold or a mild infection. If you’re ever unsure, it’s always a good idea to try home remedies first. If it doesn’t work, it is better to consult a doctor.

Effective Home Remedies for Soothing a Sore Throat

1. Gargling with Salt Water

Salt water is a home remedy that kills sore throat-causing bacteria at a fast rate. It also helps loosen mucus and ease discomfort. Mix half a teaspoon of salt into a glass of warm water and gargle to help soothe your throat.

2. Using Honey

Honey has natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. It not only relieves throat pain but also helps suppress coughing. Add two tablespoons of honey to warm tea or water for a comforting drink. Don’t give honey to babies under one year old.

3. Drinking Chamomile Tea

Chamomile tea is renowned for its calming effects and has been used for centuries to alleviate cold symptoms, including sore throats. It may also support your immune system, helping your body fight off infections more effectively.

4. Trying Hot Sauce

Although it may sound unusual, hot sauce can relieve throat pain due to the capsaicin in peppers. This compound has natural anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving effects. Mix a few drops into warm water and gargle to help reduce discomfort. Expect a brief, burning sensation initially.

5. Getting Proper Rest

Rest is crucial for recovery. Aim to go to bed early and avoid straining your voice. To reduce pressure and swelling in your throat, try keeping your head elevated with pillows or sitting upright if lying flat increases discomfort.

6. Using a Humidifier

Dry air can make a sore throat worse. A humidifier adds moisture to the air, which helps keep your throat from drying out. For extra relief, you can add a small amount of VapoRub or hydrogen peroxide solution to the humidifier.

7. Boosting Immunity with Lemon

Lemon helps clear mucus and reduce pain. It’s also packed with vitamin C, which supports immune health. Add one teaspoon of lemon juice to a glass of warm water for a quick and natural remedy.

8. Using Peppermint

Peppermint has antibacterial and antiviral properties and contains menthol, which soothes sore throats and helps clear mucus. You can drink peppermint tea or make a throat spray by mixing food-grade peppermint oil with a carrier oil like coconut or olive oil.

9. Eating Chicken Soup

Chicken soup is a traditional remedy that provides hydration and nourishment. It may help reduce inflammation by slowing the activity of certain immune cells. While effectiveness may vary depending on the recipe, it remains a comforting and beneficial option.

Remedies for Babies and Young Children with Sore Throats

• Use a Cool Mist Humidifier: Place a cool mist humidifier in your child’s room to keep the air moist and reduce throat irritation.
• Keep Them Hydrated: Encourage your child to drink plenty of fluids. Avoid acidic drinks like citrus juice and ice pops that could further irritate the throat.
• Avoid Choking Hazards: Do not give hard lozenges or tablets to children under five. Even older kids should use throat lozenges under supervision.
• Don’t Give Honey to Infants: Honey should not be given to babies under 12 months old due to the risk of infant botulism.

Over-the-Counter Treatment Options

When treated promptly, most throat infections can be cured or resolved on their own over time.

A throat culture will be prescribed if the physician determines a throat infection. This will be used by your doctor to determine the source of your infection. The line of treatment will consist of:

• Antibiotics: A bacterial illness is treated primarily with antibiotic therapy, which is also quite successful. Adhering strictly to the treatment plan and taking all prescribed drugs on time will help prevent reinfection or recurrence.
• Pain Relievers: In addition to reducing inflammation or temperature, pain medications can help relieve discomfort. They are available in liquid, lozenge, or spray form.
• Antiviral Medicines for Specific Viruses: Antiviral drug treatment may be beneficial for certain viral causes of throat infections.
• Surgery: An infection of the throat that has spread to the tonsils is called tonsillitis. Surgery to remove the tonsils is one way to treat tonsillitis.
• Environmental Alterations: By altering their surroundings, people with viral throat infections may find that their symptoms subside. These include limiting exposure to cigarette smoke.

Frequently Asked Questions