Sore Throat? Cold/Flu Strep Throat or Tonsillitis?
Sore throats have many causes. Most are caused by viral infections that result in colds or flu. A sore throat caused by a cold usually gets better on its own – only to be followed by such familiar and unwanted symptoms as sneezing, coughing, and nasal congestion. Throat pain can also be a symptom of more serious conditions such as strep throat or tonsillitis.
Cold or Flu?
A sore throat caused by flu will be accompanied by more severe symptoms like aching muscles and a high fever. While there is no cure for colds or flus, there are treatments that can make the patient feel better. Sprays and lozenges can ease the pain of the sore throat. The patient should also get plenty of rest and drink lots of fluids. Antibiotics, on the other hand, do not work on viruses and should not be used. Make an appointment to see Pembroke Pines ENT Dr. Robert Contrucci at Southeastern ENT to determine the cause of your throat pain.
What is strep throat?
Strep throat is a sore throat caused by a bacterial infection. The name is short for Streptococcus Pyogenes, the bacteria that usually causes the condition. Strep throat is characterized by its sudden onset. Symptoms include a very painful sore throat, extreme fatigue, and a high fever. It is easily treated with several types of antibiotics including Amoxicillin and Clindamycin. If strep throat is not treated, the bacteria can spread to other parts of the body – including the heart. We treat strep throat here at Southeastern ENT in Pembroke Pines.
What is tonsillitis?
Tonsillitis is an infection of the tonsils, and it can be caused by bacteria or viruses. Unlike colds or flu, tonsillitis does not involve nasal congestion. The tonsils become swollen and often have characteristic white or yellow spots. Other symptoms of tonsillitis can include the following:
- Fever
- Halitosis
- Throat pain when swallowing
- Swollen lymph glands in the neck
- Changes in the voice
The treatments for tonsillitis will vary somewhat depending on whether it’s caused by bacteria or a virus. Regardless of the cause, the patient should get plenty of rest, drink lots of fluids and eat soothing and smooth foods like soup, ice cream and gelatin.
If the tonsillitis is severe or recurrent, Dr. Contrucci may recommend a tonsillectomy or surgical removal of the tonsils. .
Call (954) 437-5333 to set an appointment with Southeastern ENT in Pembroke Pines.