Throat Infection
Ear Nose Throat Diseases
What is a Throat Infection?
Throat infections arise due to viruses and bacteria, commonly seen during the flu season. They bring symptoms like nasal discharge and sneezing. Most cases do not require medication, but doctor visits are necessary as serious illnesses may be present.
What are the Causes?
Causes are categorized into virus-induced and bacteria-induced. Virus-induced infections include the common cold and flu, which are highly contagious and prevalent in winter. These include tonsillitis, measles, pharyngitis, chickenpox, canker sores, cold sores, and laryngitis. Bacterial infections respond to antibiotics and include whooping cough, epiglottitis, and sinusitis.
What is the Treatment?
Treatments aim to accelerate recovery, reduce pain, and prevent serious conditions. Most throat infections resolve naturally without significant treatment. Treatments include:
Pain relievers: Used to reduce high fever during the illness.
Antibiotics: Used against bacterial infections and recommended in severe cases or when the immune system is very weak.
Tonsillectomy: Considered if tonsillitis recurs 4-5 times or more within a year.