Pharyngitis

Pharyngitis is inflammation of the pharynx, at the back of the throat, that causes pain, scratchiness and discomfort on swallowing. Sore throats are common and tend to spread among family members and close contacts, mostly in the colder months. Viruses such as those behind colds and influenza cause most cases, and smoking can also cause it; bacteria, mainly group A streptococcus, account for fewer. Other features include fever, headache, joint and muscle aches, rash and swollen neck glands. Complications include ear infection, sinusitis and an abscess near the tonsils, and difficulty breathing or swallowing needs urgent care. Clinicians examine the throat and may use a rapid strep test or throat culture, with further tests chosen by suspected cause. Treatment is short term: simple pain relief, lozenges and soothing measures, with antibiotics reserved for confirmed bacterial infection and antivirals sometimes used when influenza is the cause.

Seek emergency care for severe breathlessness, blue lips, breathing that does not improve with a reliever inhaler, or confusion. See a doctor for a cough lasting more than three weeks, coughing up blood, fever with chest pain, or wheeze that limits daily activity. Call the local emergency number for any symptom that is sudden and severe. This page is a reference for healthcare professionals and does not replace an assessment.