What are Some Causes of Pharyngitis?
Pharyngitis is a medical condition characterized by an inflamed pharynx, which is the part of the throat and neck located immediately behind the mouth cavity. Individuals afflicted with pharyngitis experience a sore throat, which may be accompanied by a headache, fever, or swollen lymph nodes. Other symptoms may include a runny nose, difficulty swallowing, and difficulty breathing.
A variety of factors can cause pharyngitis, all of which are different types of microorganisms. The majority of pharyngitis cases are caused by viral infections, with the most common infections being flu, the common cold, mononucleosis, adenovirus, and Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV). Other viruses that can cause pharyngitis include adenovirus, measles, herpes simplex, coxsackieviruses, and Epstein-Barr virus.
Certain types of bacterial infections can also lead to pharyngitis. Group A streptococcus, which is responsible for strep throat, is one type of bacteria that can cause pharyngitis. In fact, it is responsible for approximately 15% of cases. Strep throat can also lead to serious complications, such as kidney dysfunction, rheumatic fever, and streptococcal toxic shock syndrome.
Other bacterial infections that can lead to pharyngitis include Arcanobacterium or Corynebacterium haemolvyticus, Chlamydia and Mycoplasma pneumoniae, Corynbacterium diphtheriae, and Neisseria gonnorrhoeae. Group C, G, and F streptococci can also cause pharyngitis to occur. These include endocarditis, meningitis, and subdural empyemas. This group accounts for about 10% of cases.
A few rarer types of bacteria can also lead to pharyngitis. These include Francisella tularensis, Borrelia species, Corynebacterium ulcerans, and Yersinia species.
Since respiratory diseases, bacterial infections, and viral infections occur most often in the colder months, pharyngitis is more prevalent during the same season. In addition, pharyngitis can be caused by dry air, which is common in the winter months as a result of the indoor heating. There are also causes of pharyngitis that do not involve microorganisms. These include chemical injury, smoking, gastroesophageal reflux disease, endotracheal intubation, and neoplasia. Allergies and postnasal drip can also lead to pharyngitis.
Proper treatment of pharyngitis depends on the underlying cause. If the pharyngitis is caused by a bacterial infection, it may be treated with antibiotics. To treat the symptoms of pharyngitis, a doctor may recommend taking pain relievers, gargling with warm saltwater, and ingesting plenty of fluids.
Written by Shannon Kietzman
