Pharyngitis
Treatment:
Treatment of viral pharyngitis is only to relieve symptoms. Antibiotics are not effective. To reduce pain and inflammation, gargle with warm salt water (one-half teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water) several times a day. Over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen - oral may be helpful.
Note: antiseptic lozenges and sprays may aggravate this condition rather than provide relief.
Bacterial pharyngitis is treated with antibiotics. The full course of antibiotics should be taken, even if symptoms improve before the medication is gone.
Chronic pharyngitis is treated by eliminating the cause of inflammation.
Expectations (prognosis):
Pharyngitis most often clears up on its own.
Complications:
Calling your health care provider:
Call for an appointment with your health care provider if a sore throat lasts for more than a few days.
Go to the emergency room or call the local emergency number (such as 911) if difficulty breathing occurs.
|
