Pharyngitis

Pharyngitis is an inflammation of the pharyngeal mucosa and submucosal tissues, often a component of upper respiratory tract infections. Based on the duration of the disease and the nature of pathological changes, it is divided into two major categories: acute pharyngitis and chronic pharyngitis. As the weather turns cold, the number of patients with redness, swelling, and pain in the pharynx as the main symptoms gradually increases. Pharyngeal redness and sore throat are common acute pharyngeal diseases in otolaryngology, usually caused by viral infections, bacterial infections, and environmental irritation. Bacteria and viruses are typically transmitted through droplets or close contact, while environmental factors mainly refer to high temperatures, dust, smoke, and irritating gases. The onset of this disease is relatively acute, starting with dryness, burning sensation, and a foreign body sensation in the pharynx, followed by obvious sore throat, which is often more severe during swallowing saliva than when eating. Sometimes the pain may radiate to the ear. Systemic symptoms are generally mild, but vary in degree depending on age, immunity, and the virulence of the virus or bacteria, and may include fever, headache, loss of appetite, or aching limbs. If the above symptoms occur, prompt medical attention and timely treatment should be sought to avoid complications such as otitis media, sinusitis, and acute inflammation of the upper and lower respiratory tracts. If there are no complications, recovery usually occurs within one week. Special attention should be paid to diet, avoiding greasy, sticky, fried, and irritating foods. Nutrition should be adequate with a reasonable diet, ensuring the intake of high-quality protein, vitamins, and minerals. It is advisable to drink plenty of plain water, with a diet based on the principle of being light and easy to digest.