Pharyngitis

Pharyngitis is inflammation of the pharynx, the back area of the throat, and it usually causes discomfort when swallowing and redness of the mucosa. Most cases are viral in origin, though they can also be due to bacteria or other irritants.

Frequent symptoms:

• Sore throat or burning
• Difficulty or discomfort when swallowing
• Redness, sometimes with fever or swollen lymph nodes

Common causes: Respiratory infections, exposure to smoke, dry air, or contact with sick people are usually behind the condition.

When is it advisable to seek care? If the discomfort lasts a long time, the fever is high, or difficulty breathing or swallowing appears, it is time for a professional check-up.

Which specialist handles it? The general practitioner and the pediatrician assess routine cases, while the otolaryngologist steps in when episodes recur or become complicated. The wisest thing is to let a professional confirm the cause before taking any measures.