Throat infections are one of the most common contagious diseases. Through droplet transmission, children in a crowded school community can easily contract the disease and then spread it to many others more. Building a strong immune system as well as the observance of preventive measures can significantly lessen the incidence of this throat infection.
Bacterial Throat Infection
- Refers to the infection of the throat and surrounding structures caused by bacteria.
- Is also known as pharyngitis which is defined as an inflammation of the pharynx of throat which is also one of the common causes of a sore throat.
- There are different types of infection of the throat.
- All of which are usually easily transmitted or contagious through contact, droplet, or airborne transmission.
- Both men and women as well as young and old can get affected by a throat infection.
- The most vulnerable age group is the school-age children.
- Throat infections usually occur in specific seasons.
- Common types of throat infections include strep throat, tonsillitis, and pharyngitis.
- The most common bacteria that cause throat infection is the streptococcus bacteria.
Bacterial Throat Infection Symptoms
No matter the type of throat infection, the major signs and symptoms are the same. These include:
- Sore throat
- Red or inflamed tonsils
- Pain during swallowing
- Difficulty breathing
- Fever
- Swollen lymph nodes on the neck
- White or yellow patches on the tonsils
Bacterial Throat Infection Home Remedies
When detected early home remedies for throat infections can be quite successful. Common home remedies include:
- Saline gargle – gargle warm water with a pinch of salt three times a day.
- Increased water intake – helps flush out bacteria causing the infection.
- Healthy diet – increases and strengthens the immune system which enables the body to respond to the infection.
- Adequate rest – avoid strenuous activities to give the body strength to fight off the infection.
Other Treatments Include:
- Over the counter lozenges and sprays – provides relief for sore throats.
- Antipyretics – Helps reduce fever.
- Antibiotics – Helps fight off the bacteria causing the infection.
Extensive Treatment:
For throat infections that do not respond to conservative treatments and are recurrent, the following treatments are recommended:
- Hospitalization – The patient will be placed on fluid therapy with intravenous fluids and started on antibiotic therapy given intravenously.
- Surgery – Recurrent throat infections usually warrant the need of surgery such as tonsillectomy to prevent further recurrence of infection and the development of complications.
For throat infections that do not respond to home or conservative treatment and for worsening of symptoms, the patient should be submitted to the doctor for a more thorough examination.