Pharyngitis is the medical term for inflammation of the pharynx, which is the area between the tonsils and esophagus at the back of the throat.

This condition is commonly referred to as a sore throat, and is one of the most common reasons people visit their doctor.

Causes of Pharyngitis

Pharyngitis can be caused by a wide variety of factors, including:.

Viral infections, such as the common cold, flu, or mononucleosis
Bacterial infections, such as strep throat, diphtheria, or whooping cough
Allergies or environmental irritants, such as smoke, pollutants, or dry air
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), a condition in which stomach acid backs up into the esophagus and throat
Postnasal drip, which occurs when excess mucus from the nose drips down into the throat
Injury or trauma to the throat

Symptoms of Pharyngitis

The symptoms of pharyngitis can vary depending on the cause, but may include:.

Soreness, pain, or scratchiness in the throat
Difficulty or pain when swallowing
Dry or swollen throat
Swollen or tender lymph nodes in the neck
Fever or chills
Fatigue or weakness
Headache or body aches
Cough or congestion

Treatment for Pharyngitis

The treatment for pharyngitis depends on the underlying cause.

If the pharyngitis is caused by a viral infection, treatment typically involves rest, hydration, and over-the-counter pain relief medications like acetaminophen and ibuprofen to help manage symptoms.

If the pharyngitis is caused by a bacterial infection like strep throat, antibiotics may be prescribed to help clear the infection.

It is important to note that antibiotics should only be used when absolutely necessary and as prescribed by a healthcare provider.

Other treatments that may be recommended for pharyngitis include:.