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Viral Pharyngitis

Authors:
  • Amy Scholten, MPH
Publication Type:

Condition

Viral Pharyngitis

(Viral Sore Throat)

Definition

Viral pharyngitis is a sore, inflamed throat.

Sore Throat Due to Inflammation.

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Causes

Viral pharyngitis is caused by a viral infection such as a common cold or the flu.

Risk Factors

Viral pharyngitis is more common in children and adolescents. Other things that may raise the risk are:

  • Living or working in crowded places
  • Not washing hands enough
  • Smoking
  • Allergies
  • Lowered ability to fight infection due to:
    • Stress or being tired
    • Recent illness
    • Long term health problems, such as HIV infection or AIDS
    • Chemotherapy

Symptoms

Symptoms of viral pharyngitis may be:

  • Sore, red, swollen throat
  • Problems swallowing
  • Swollen lymph nodes in the neck and behind the ears
  • Lack of hunger
  • Being tired
  • Rashes

Diagnosis

The doctor will ask about symptoms and past health. A physical exam will be done. The diagnosis may be based on the symptoms and a throat exam. The throat may be swabbed. This is to rule out other causes, such as strep throat.

Treatment

There are no specific treatments to cure viral pharyngitis. Most of these infections go away on their own in about a week. Treatments may help ease symptoms. Options may be:

  • Over the counter pain medicine—to ease discomfort
  • Warm salt water gargles—to ease sore throat
  • Throat lozenges
  • Warm drinks, soups, or cold fluids
  • A cool-mist humidifier—to soothe a dry or stuffy nose

Prevention

The risk of viral pharyngitis may be reduced by:

  • Washing hands frequently
  • Not sharing eating utensils or drinking glasses with someone who has a sore throat
  • Avoiding people who have a sore throat
RESOURCES:

CANADIAN RESOURCES:

CANADIAN RESOURCES:

References

  • Frye R, Bailey J, Blevins AE. Clinical inquiries. Which treatments provide the most relief for pharyngitis pain? J Fam Pract. 2011;60(5):293-294.
  • Murray RC, Chennupati SK. Chronic streptococcal and non-streptococcal pharyngitis. Infect Discord Drug Targets. 2012;12(4):281-285.
  • Pharyngitis - Approach to the Patient. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at: https://www.dynamed.com/approach-to/pharyngitis-approach-to-the-patient-25. Accessed April 6, 2021.
  • Sore throats. American Academy of Otolaryngology—Head and Neck Surgery website. Available at: http://www.entnet.org/content/sore-throats. Accessed April 6, 2021.

Contributors

  • David L. Horn, MD, FACP
Last Updated:
2022-08-01

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This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.