Pharyngitis: Etiology, Symptoms, Diagnosis, Management

Pharyngitis:

Inflammation of the pharynx. Acute pharyngitis is the most common throat inflammation caused by hemolytic streptococci.

Etiology :

Pharyngitis may occur after the removal of tonsils

Signs and symptoms:

1.     Dryness of throat

2.     Sore throat, fever above 38.2  (101 F)

3.     Throat pain aggrevated by swallowing

4.     Hic cough

5.     Throat appears red and soreness starts from acute rhinitis and acute sinusitis.

Diagnosis :

1.     WBC ,shows leukocytosis.

2.     Throat culture for bacterialogical diagnosis to determine the presence absence of streptococci.

Management :

Medical :

1.     Penicillin Orally for two days or benzathine Penicillin G in single intra muscular dose.

2.     Erythromycin for the patient who is allergic to Penicillin.

3.     Acetylsalicylic acid as prescribed

4.     Lozenger containing mild anesthetic after may help to relieve the local soreness.

Nursing management:

1.     Acute pharyngitis is relieved by hot saline solution throat gargle.

2.     An ice collar may help the patient to feel move comfortable

3.     Moist inhalation may help to relive the dryness of the throat

4.     A liquid diet

5.     Bed rest is advised

6.     Maintain good oral hygiene to prevent drying and cracking of the lips.