Pharyngitis

What is Pharyngitis

Pharyngitis is a sore throat (pharynx). This is when there is redness, pain, and swelling in your throat. Most of the time, this condition gets better on its own. In some cases, you may need medicine.

Follow these instructions at home:

  • Take over-the-counter and prescription medicines only as told by your doctor.
    • If you were prescribed an antibiotic medicine, take it as told by your doctor. Do not stop taking the antibiotic even if you start to feel better.
    • Do not give children aspirin. Aspirin has been linked to Reye syndrome.
  • Drink enough water and fluids to keep your pee (urine) clear or pale yellow.
  • Get a lot of rest.
  • Rinse your mouth (gargle) with a salt-water mixture 3–4 times a day or as needed. To make a salt-water mixture, completely dissolve ½-1 tsp of salt in 1 cup of warm water.
  • If your doctor approves, you may use throat lozenges or sprays to soothe your throat.

Contact a doctor if:

  • You have large, tender lumps in your neck.
  • You have a rash.
  • You cough up green, yellow-brown, or bloody spit.

Get help right away if:

  • You have a stiff neck.
  • You drool or cannot swallow liquids.
  • You cannot drink or take medicines without throwing up.
  • You have very bad pain that does not go away with medicine.
  • You have problems breathing, and it is not from a stuffy nose.
  • You have new pain and swelling in your knees, ankles, wrists, or elbows.

Summary

  • Pharyngitis is a sore throat (pharynx). This is when there is redness, pain, and swelling in your throat.
  • If you were prescribed an antibiotic medicine, take it as told by your doctor. Do not stop taking the antibiotic even if you start to feel better.
  • Most of the time, pharyngitis gets better on its own. Sometimes, you may need medicine.
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