Dizziness, sore throat, runny nose

Why is there a problem?

A sore throat without fever accompanies the remission stage of many chronic ENT pathologies - tonsillitis, pharyngitis, laryngitis. The sore throat and stuffy nose have been in this case for longer than 3 weeks. Most often, the exacerbation of such diseases occurs in the autumn-winter period of the year and is associated with hypothermia of the body.

In addition, the fact that the throat hurts, but there is no temperature, is caused by:

• increased dryness of air in living and working areas;
• unfavorable environmental situation in the region of residence, the presence of smoke and harmful impurities in the air;
• pathologies that have a depressing effect on the body’s immune system;
• traumatic effects on the mucous membrane of the oropharynx from excessively hot and cold food, spicy dishes, and foreign objects;
• failure to comply with safety measures when performing broncho- and esophagoscopy (incorrect use of medical instruments during the examination).

Nasal congestion, lack of temperature “jump” and sore throat may indicate:

• for hypothyroidism, chronic diseases of the endocrine system;
• diabetes;
• HIV infection.

Important! Similar symptoms often occur with prolonged treatment with antibiotics (in patients with sore throat), chemotherapy drugs, and corticosteroids (hormonal drugs).

Diagnosis of causes

An inflammatory process in the pharynx or larynx (laryngitis, pharyngitis) is accompanied by patient complaints of a lump or sore throat. The pain syndrome “haunts” him constantly and does not depend on swallowing.

In patients with laryngitis and pharyngitis, a red throat is visually detected, they experience weakness, and their nose is stuffy from time to time. The course of such infectious and inflammatory diseases is accompanied by an annoying dry paroxysmal cough.

An inflamed, red, painful throat is a sign of catarrhal tonsillitis.

Chronic laryngitis, characterized by damage to the vocal cords, causes a change in the timbre of the voice (it becomes low, hoarse). In the acute phase of the disease, sound reproduction is accompanied by increased pain in the throat. That is why the first symptomatic aid for patients with laryngitis is to maintain a gentle vocal regime.

Why does my throat hurt when swallowing?

The symptoms of chronic tonsillitis are different. As such, there is no soreness or lump in the throat, but pain when swallowing haunts patients constantly - for a week or even a month. During a medical examination, the otolaryngologist discovers enlarged tonsils covered with a dirty gray coating.

The diagnosis of “chronic tonsillitis” can be confirmed by the presence of regional lymphadenitis (the submandibular lymph nodes are not only enlarged, but also extremely sensitive to palpation).

Additional signs of the disease:

• fast fatiguability;
• tachycardia, arrhythmia, pain in the heart area;
• aching in bones and joints.

Important! When looking for the cause of a constant sore throat, do not forget about tumor processes. Pathological changes can be localized in the larynx, affecting the thyroid gland and pharynx. Patients with benign or malignant neoplasms describe their subjective sensations as the presence of a lump or foreign body in the throat.

Infections

A viral disease – infectious mononucleosis – also causes a prolonged runny nose and severe pain in the oropharynx in the absence of hyperthermia. A sore throat may bother patients for a week, or may “linger” for several months. Additional symptoms - enlargement of the submandibular lymph nodes, liver, spleen can also persist for a long time.

This is what chronic pharyngitis looks like, which is quite easily differentiated

Important! Adult patients who have become “victims” of sexually transmitted infections can have a severe sore throat. Thus, the pathogens of gonorrhea, syphilis, and chlamydia cause the development of an inflammatory process, the course of which is accompanied by severe pain without fever.

In rare cases, similar signs also occur against the background of a tuberculosis process localized in the throat - it is usually accompanied by a prolonged low-grade fever (37.2–37.3 degrees), but it happens that there is no hyperthermia.

Other reasons

In addition to colds, chronic rhinitis and other ENT diseases, pain in the throat area can be caused by:

• myocardial infarction;
• reflux – esophagitis;
• angina pectoris;
• hormonal diseases;
• anemia and other problems with the circulatory system;
• hypovitaminosis;
• neuralgia;
• diseases of the spine;
• inflammation of the gums;
• AIDS.

The backflow of stomach contents into the esophagus (acid reflux) can accompany the course of various diseases of the gastrointestinal tract - gastritis, esophagitis, ulcers. In this case, in addition to a sore throat, patients complain of belching, problems with stool, heartburn, a feeling of pain and heaviness in the upper epigastrium.

Visual diagnosis of sore throat allows you to distinguish the bacterial cause of the process from the viral one

Exacerbation of pain in the throat area is associated with meals; the problem can be aggravated if the patient immediately after eating takes a horizontal position or practices various physical activities.

Sore throat as a symptom of cardiac pathologies is accompanied by substernal pain syndrome, which worsens during sports or other physical activity. Additional signs: cyanosis (blueness of the skin), shortness of breath, swelling of the extremities.

Hypothyroidism (reduced thyroid function) and diabetes mellitus - the causes of pain - cause dry mouth, a constant feeling of thirst, and periodic attacks of sore throat.

The same clinical picture worries patients who have been taking corticosteroids for a long time. In addition, such patients suffer from hyperglycemia and other signs of impaired carbohydrate metabolism.

A lump in the throat, difficulty, painful swallowing are “faithful companions” of hypothyroidism. Swollen tongue and lips, dry mouth mucosa indicate the same endocrine problem. Vitamin deficiency in the body also leads to sore throat. Thus, a lack of ascorbic acid is accompanied by the appearance of ulcers in the mouth, on the back of the throat, and tonsils. Teeth become loose and fall out.

Lack of B12 causes a burning sensation on the tongue, atrophy of the oral mucosa (causes: gastritis, anemia). A reduced amount of vitamin A in the body is also fraught with erosions of the mucous membrane. Leukemia also leads to sore throat as a result of pronounced structural changes in the oropharyngeal mucosa.

Most patients suffering from AIDS develop candidiasis, bacterial stomatitis, pharyngitis and other diseases, the provocateurs of which are reduced immune function of the body.

Prolonged intense pain in the throat can accompany the course of heart and endocrine diseases

Neuralgia of the glossopharyngeal nerve is another cause of the problem. The pain syndrome is unilateral, paroxysmal in nature, discomfort can persist from a couple of seconds to several minutes. The disease is characterized by a chronic relapsing course.

Osteochondrosis of the cervical spine is one of the most common “provocateurs” of the presence of a coma and sore throat. Unpleasant sensations intensify with sudden movements. A sore throat in young children may indicate teething.

Irritation in the throat due to an allergic reaction also leads to severe pain. In this situation, the patient requires complex antiallergic therapy.

Sore throat, stuffy nose and no fever: what to do and how to treat it

A sore throat is the most common symptom. Quite often, sore throat and nasal congestion occur without an increase in overall body temperature.

Unfortunately, not all people know how to help themselves in this situation so as not to suffer from more serious symptoms in the future.

What could it be?

There is a whole range of diseases in which the throat hurts, the nose is stuffy, but the body temperature does not rise. This usually happens with a cold or acute respiratory infection, when the patient’s body on its own fights the microorganisms that have entered it.

Medicine identifies several reasons for a sore throat:

1. viral infections;
2. irritation of the mucous membrane;
3. injuries;
4. muscle overstrain.

If a virus has entered the body, treatment may be limited to a course of antiviral drugs and nasal drops. In such a situation, the throat does not hurt very often, but it still interferes with eating and swallowing saliva; the nose may be stuffy, but there is no fever.

Each person has a different pain threshold, and for this reason, for some, the pain does not seem very strong, while others cannot do without painkillers.

There is another reason for discomfort - irritation of the mucous membrane of the pharynx. This most often happens with allergic reactions that lead to swelling of the mucous membrane. It could also be laryngitis, which makes it difficult to talk. At the very beginning of the pathological process, the patient will notice a sharp, cutting pain, and then his voice suddenly disappears.

When the muscles of the larynx are overstrained, the voice also breaks down, which is due to increased tone.

What you need to know

When your throat hurts and your nose is stuffy, there is no reason to call an ambulance. However, there are exceptions:

1. the pain is so severe that it is impossible to swallow saliva and it flows out of the mouth;
2. the throat is so swollen that it is difficult to breathe, and at the same time sounds similar to whistling and squeaking are heard.

In all other cases, a simple trip to the clinic is quite enough. We are talking about symptoms such as enlarged cervical lymph nodes, pain during jaw movements, fluctuations in body temperature, hoarseness for no obvious reason, pus or purulent plugs in the tonsils.

The following measures can be used as self-help:

• control your breathing and try to breathe through your nose;
• give up lollipops (they require you to swallow more often);
• with laryngitis, it is better to talk normally than to whisper (whispering irritates the ligaments even more);
• do not shout, avoid irritating substances, smoking (active and passive);
• gargle with saline solutions without swallowing the liquid;
• humidify the air.

Oddly enough, doctors advise eating ice cream and similar cold foods for a sore throat. This will reduce swelling, inflammation and relieve pain.

Bacterial infection

In less than half of cases, the cause of a sore throat is a bacterial infection. To make an accurate diagnosis, you will need to take a swab from the throat and culture the bacterial microflora, the degree of its sensitivity to antibiotics.

If your throat hurts, an inflammatory process develops in it. It can occur both in the pharyngeal tonsils (provoking tonsillitis) and on the mucous membranes (with pharyngitis).

When the nose is also stuffy due to a bacterial infection, the sick person will note the following symptoms:

1. rapid development of pain;
2. deterioration of general condition;
3. increased body temperature;
4. enlargement of the submandibular and cervical lymph nodes.

In such a situation, it is important to contact a general practitioner or otolaryngologist as soon as possible to make a diagnosis and begin treatment with antibiotics. In addition, frequent gargling with medicinal solutions is recommended. It has been scientifically proven that mechanical cleansing of the mucous membranes is the key to a quick recovery.

Almost any solution is suitable for treatment:

• salt (take a teaspoon of salt per glass of water);
• herbal (a teaspoon of chamomile or calendula, brewed with 100 ml of boiling water);
• drugs Octenisept, Lizobakt.

Sometimes doctors recommend lozenges, for example, Hexalize. Sprays with an antiseptic effect have proven themselves to be excellent: Tantum Verde, Hexoral, Ingalipt. For severe severe pain, you can use an aerosol with the anesthetic Strepsils-plus.

If your body temperature rises and your throat hurts even more, you should take a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug based on Paracetamol or Ibuprofen.

Viral infection

With a viral infection, the nose may be stuffy and the throat may be sore. For example, with an adenovirus infection, the cervical lymph nodes also become enlarged, and severe viral pharyngitis develops. Moreover, the nature of the pain can be the same as with bacterial infections.

In adult patients, the throat hurts due to mononucleosis. The discomfort is sometimes so strong that it is difficult for the patient to swallow or eat. Very often, during illness, the temperature remains within normal limits, but dehydration develops.

No matter how severe the pain syndrome is, it does not require the use of antibiotics. Viral diseases are treated only with antiviral drugs.

Symptoms of a disease of viral etiology, in which the nose is stuffy, will be:

1. deterioration in general health;
2. gradual increase in soreness in the throat;
3. weakness in the body, pain in the head;
4. loss of strength, fatigue.

Symptomatic treatment will be required.

Irritation of the mucous membrane

The nose and throat can be bothersome due to allergic reactions or as a result of exposure to tobacco smoke, dry, polluted air.

Due to irritation of the pharyngeal mucosa, the patient suffers from sore throat, watery eyes, sneezing, and excessive nasal discharge. Allergies often cause itchy skin and a dry cough.

To improve the patient’s well-being, the doctor must determine the irritating factor, the allergen. Then the nose is washed with a saline spray, the throat is gargled with solutions (take a teaspoon of sea or kitchen salt per glass of warm water).

Additionally, it is very important to humidify the air in the room and ventilate regularly. The optimal humidity level is up to 60 percent.

Laryngitis

Another cause of health problems is laryngitis (inflammation of the larynx). The disease is characterized by a barking cough, wheezing in the chest, and pain in the neck. There are many causes of the disease, among the most likely are:

1. overstrain of ligaments;
2. frequent viral infections.

Laryngitis is very dangerous. As a result of high reactivity of the respiratory tract and repeated allergic reactions, an acute attack of suffocation, which is sometimes called croup, can begin. There is no increase in temperature during illness.

The main symptom will be hoarseness and fatigue. Purely psychological discomfort cannot be ruled out, because it is very difficult for a person to speak normally. Treatment of the disease begins with resting the ligaments. Doctors insist that you need to talk only when absolutely necessary.

Cigarette smoke will have a negative effect on the ligaments and throat, so even passive smoking should be avoided. You need to drink a lot of warm liquid and do steam inhalations. For the procedure, just bend over a pan with hot potato broth or plain water.

Alternatively, it is recommended to lock yourself in the bathroom, turn on the hot water, sit near the tap and inhale the moist hot air. You should be extremely careful, since the temperature of the water is very important; the steam should be moist, warm, but not scalding.

Correct treatment

Unfortunately, today there is no remedy that can treat a sore throat, even if there is no fever. The use of a strong local anesthetic will not help, since the patient will not be able to drink or eat after this.

The best option is treatment with drugs based on substances:

• phenol;
• dyclonine;
• benzocaine.

These components cause slight numbness in the throat, reducing pain sensitivity in it.

Lollipops made from menthol will help relieve pain. They help cool the throat, soften the tissues, relieving soreness. But it should be understood that lollipops do not have a therapeutic effect and will not eliminate the cause of the problem.

For a sore throat, the doctor will prescribe antibacterial and antiseptic aerosols. They contain components that quickly stop the activity of pathogenic microflora. It is best to use single-component medications, as there is a risk of an allergic reaction. If you treat your throat with complex drugs, the likelihood of complications of the disease increases.

Also, when the throat hurts, lozenges are prescribed. They are usually divided into several groups:

1. containing substances that inhibit viruses and bacteria (Hexaliz, Lysobact);
2. containing non-steroidal anti-inflammatory components (Strepfen);
3. containing lysates of pathogens that often provoke tonsillitis and pharyngitis (Imudon). Thanks to them, the body activates local immunity. Medicines in this group are indicated for chronic and indolent forms of ailments;
4. containing plant components. Natural substances improve blood flow and promote mucus formation, alleviating the symptoms of the disease.

It should be remembered that when your throat hurts and it becomes difficult to swallow, dehydration can begin very quickly. If the patient's body temperature begins to rise, the likelihood of water loss only increases. This fact must be taken into account and the fluid balance in the body must be replenished.

When your nose is stuffy, your doctor will recommend one of a number of medications:

• Naphazolin, Sanorin, Naphthyzin;
• Oxymetazoline, Nazol, Nazo-spray, Nazivin;
• Tetrizoline, Tizin;
• Xylometazoline, Tizin Xylo, Galazolin, Xymelin, Otrivin, Dlynos, Xylene, Snoop, Rinonorm.

If your body temperature begins to rise, you need to take a drug based on Paracetamol, Ibuprofen or Aspirin. The video in this article will tell you what to do if you have a sore throat.

Source: https://stopgripp.ru/bolezn/ango/bolit-gorlo-zalozhen-nos-net-temperatury.html

Treatment measures

What methods should be chosen to relieve pain depends on the cause of its occurrence. If the “culprit” of the problem is a cold, viral and bacterial infections, rinsing comes to the patient’s aid, first of all. So, in 250 ml of warm boiled water you need to dilute ½ tsp. sea ​​salt and regular baking soda and gargle with this mixture at least 5-6 times a day.

Decoctions of medicinal herbs (chamomile, sage, calendula) are also suitable for medicinal rinses. To prepare the healing composition, you need to take 1 tbsp. l. collection and boil it in 500 ml of water. Add 1 tsp to the cooled folk remedy. honey (if you are not allergic to it), add citric acid (on the tip of a knife). It is recommended to gargle with this mixture 2-3 times a day.

Popular pharmaceutical products for gargling (lubricating) a sore throat

Chronic pharyngitis and laryngitis “react” well to alcohol tincture of propolis. 40 drops of a 10% pharmaceutical solution are mixed with 60 g of warm boiled water. Therapeutic rinses are carried out 30 minutes before meals twice a day.

Warm compresses are a good remedy for a sore throat in the absence of hyperthermia. For example, squeezed cottage cheese or potatoes boiled in their skins (the mass is first kneaded with a spoon) are wrapped in natural fabric, applied to the painful area, and insulated with polyethylene or a scarf. The compress can be left overnight.

Various pharmaceutical sprays (Tantum Verde, Hexoral) or tablets, lozenges (Strepsils) help to cope with the “pursuer”. Such products have antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, soothing, softening properties, so they quickly relieve pain.

Important! Such medications are only a symptomatic measure aimed at eliminating unpleasant sensations.

Which doctor should I contact?

If your nose is stuffy and your throat hurts, you have a fever and runny nose, you should consult a therapist or ENT doctor. If symptoms appear in the spring, you need to consult an allergist.

If sore throat and nasal congestion arise as a result of professional activity, then you should visit an occupational pathologist or pulmonologist. If symptoms appear constantly, and there is no temperature, it is necessary to do an FGDS and bronchoscopy to make sure that there are no neoplasms.

If your nose and throat are congested, if you experience shortness of breath or suffocation, you should first call an ambulance. In other cases, you need to visit a doctor - he will prescribe the correct treatment. Self-medication can lead to complications or chronic pathology.

Medicines

Antibacterial therapy can only be prescribed by a doctor in the presence of pus, sputum, plaque, or high temperature. Self-prescription of antibacterial agents threatens intestinal dysbiosis. Antibiotics will not help with viral infections. Therefore, it is important to differentiate bacterial pathology from viral pathology. In the latter case, antiviral drugs (Remantadine, Amantadine, Famciclovir, Zovirax) or interferon inducers (Ergoferon, Cycloferon, Viferon, Amiksin) are prescribed.

Medicines based on Paracetamol will help relieve headaches and reduce fever. Lozenges (Hexaliz, Lizobakt, Strepfen) will help eliminate inflammation of the throat. For a runny nose, rinsing the nasal cavity with Aquamaris, Axalor, or saline solution will be effective. To reduce congestion, you can instill vasoconstrictors (Xylene, Otrivin, Dlyanos). They can be used for no more than 7 days.

Rinse

These procedures are effective in eliminating inflammation in the pharynx and its redness. For rinsing, you can use soda and salt, calendula, Miramistin, Chlorhexidine, Furacilin.

Inhalations can be steam inhalations, when vapors of medicinal plants are inhaled. Ultrasonic inhalers, which create fine aerosol particles, can also be used for inhalation. With the help of such devices you can breathe drugs, for example, Lazolvan, Berodual, Ambrobene, Atrovent. They are effective in the presence of phlegm. These medications reduce its viscosity, dilate the bronchi, accelerating its elimination.

Compresses are ineffective as an independent treatment. They can be used only in complex therapy in the presence of sputum, to improve its removal. Mustard plasters, semi-alcohol solutions, and turpentine are used. Contraindications are angina pectoris, arterial hypertension, individual intolerance.

When to see a doctor

The patient requires medical attention if:

• pain does not go away within 2 days (even during therapeutic inhalations, rinsing, after resorption of tablets);
• the pain is very severe, it is difficult for the patient not only to swallow, but even to open his mouth;
• there is snot, an itchy rash on the body (does not disappear after taking antihistamines);
• a sore throat haunts the patient constantly and is muted in nature (a sure sign of chronic inflammation).

Pharmacy throat sprays relieve pain, relieve redness, irritation, soreness, soothe the mucous membrane of the oropharynx

Which doctor should I contact?

If your nose is stuffy and your throat hurts, you have a fever and runny nose, you should consult a therapist or ENT doctor. If symptoms appear in the spring, you need to consult an allergist.

If sore throat and nasal congestion arise as a result of professional activity, then you should visit an occupational pathologist or pulmonologist. If symptoms appear constantly, and there is no temperature, it is necessary to do an FGDS and bronchoscopy to make sure that there are no neoplasms.

If your nose and throat are congested, if you experience shortness of breath or suffocation, you should first call an ambulance. In other cases, you need to visit a doctor - he will prescribe the correct treatment. Self-medication can lead to complications or chronic pathology.

Medicines

Antibacterial therapy can only be prescribed by a doctor in the presence of pus, sputum, plaque, or high temperature. Self-prescription of antibacterial agents threatens intestinal dysbiosis. Antibiotics will not help with viral infections. Therefore, it is important to differentiate bacterial pathology from viral pathology. In the latter case, antiviral drugs (Remantadine, Amantadine, Famciclovir, Zovirax) or interferon inducers (Ergoferon, Cycloferon, Viferon, Amiksin) are prescribed.

Medicines based on Paracetamol will help relieve headaches and reduce fever. Lozenges (Hexaliz, Lizobakt, Strepfen) will help eliminate inflammation of the throat. For a runny nose, rinsing the nasal cavity with Aquamaris, Axalor, or saline solution will be effective. To reduce congestion, you can instill vasoconstrictors (Xylene, Otrivin, Dlyanos). They can be used for no more than 7 days.

Rinse

These procedures are effective in eliminating inflammation in the pharynx and its redness. For rinsing, you can use soda and salt, calendula, Miramistin, Chlorhexidine, Furacilin.

Inhalations can be steam inhalations, when vapors of medicinal plants are inhaled. Ultrasonic inhalers, which create fine aerosol particles, can also be used for inhalation. With the help of such devices you can breathe drugs, for example, Lazolvan, Berodual, Ambrobene, Atrovent. They are effective in the presence of phlegm. These medications reduce its viscosity, dilate the bronchi, accelerating its elimination.

Compresses are ineffective as an independent treatment. They can be used only in complex therapy in the presence of sputum, to improve its removal. Mustard plasters, semi-alcohol solutions, and turpentine are used. Contraindications are angina pectoris, arterial hypertension, individual intolerance.

Prevention

To prevent the appearance of a sore throat as a symptom of various ENT pathologies (and not only), it is recommended:

• avoid hypothermia;
• exclude contact with all possible allergens;
• treat runny noses and colds in a timely manner;
• strengthen immunity;
• monitor the condition of the body in general, the cardiovascular and endocrine systems in particular;
• promptly clean, ventilate, and monitor air humidity in living and working areas (optimal indicators are 60%).

It is important to understand that a sore throat is only a symptom that indicates another, more serious health problem. That is why a timely consultation with an otolaryngologist (therapist) will help identify the root cause of the pain syndrome and prevent possible negative consequences for the patient’s body.

Sore throat: causes, diseases, what to do when you have a sore throat, treatment

A symptom of a sore but not sore throat is usually the beginning of a cold caused by a viral infection. But more “serious” diseases that can develop even in children can also manifest themselves. Let's look at the main pathologies and their differences.

Why can my nose and throat get sore?

To inhale air, a person is “equipped” with a device such as a nose. The mouth will also provide air into the lungs, but it is not intended to disinfect it and warm it up. This is done with the help of a richly supplied mucous membrane, which “meets” the incoming air and “transmits” it along a rather long path - from the tip of the nose to the nasopharynx, which anatomically begins at the level of the root of the nose. At the same time, following this path, the gas mixture we breathe is moistened and cleansed of dust particles and large microbes. This is done by cilia - microscopic cylindrical outgrowths on top of the cells of the mucous membrane. They know how to move, and their movement is aimed at exiting the nose. When they cannot “expel” particularly large or numerous irritating particles, they “turn on” the sneezing reflex, aimed at “expelling” them.

What the cilia of the nasal epithelial cells could not remove goes to the next level - into the lymphatic tissue. In the area of ​​the nose and pharynx, it forms a whole ring of tonsils, which “check” the air and the microorganisms contained in it one after another, in several stages:

• First, the air passes through the “control” of the pharyngeal tonsil. This is a lymphoid tissue that, growing in a child, is called “adenoids” (“adeno” - gland, “-idny” - similar, that is, literally “adenoids” is tissue similar to glandular tissue). Adults do not have adenoids;
• the air mixture goes further to the oral cavity, bypassing the islands of lymphoid tissue located on the back wall of the pharynx (“tube” from the nose to the larynx that connects the nose and mouth);
• then the air passes past the palatine tonsils (these are the ones we see when we open our mouths in front of a mirror and breathe through our mouths);
• simultaneously with the palatine tonsil, the lingual tonsil cleanses from microbes;
• Further, the absence of germs is carried out by paired tubal tonsils, but they are more focused on keeping germs out of the ear, so they are not closely involved in the air mixture.

The muscles are not involved in the process of inhaling air, so they are not present along the nasal cavity, along the pharynx and to the larynx. The wall of the pharynx consists of only two layers: the mucous membrane and the fibrous membrane. Nerve endings from the cranial nerves, which provide sensitivity to this area, are suitable here.

Let's move on to the question of why there is a sore throat directly. The causes of this symptom can be divided into several groups:

1. Drying of the mucous membrane of only the nasopharynx or oropharynx. This is caused by some medications, dry air, tobacco, harmful chemicals contained in the air (paints, chlorine-containing substances, fragrances, etc.), especially if a person breathes them chronically).
2. Irritation of the oropharyngeal mucosa. This is especially often done by hydrochloric acid, which is thrown here from the stomach (if this condition exists constantly, it is called gastroesphageal reflux disease, but a similar situation can develop acutely - when taking a horizontal position after eating and drinking alcohol).
3. Inflammation of the mucous membrane of the oropharynx: infectious (these are ARVI group viruses, bacteria, less often fungi) and non-infectious, for example, with an allergy to a substance contained in the air.
4. Impaired blood supply to the mucous membrane.
5. Tumors developing from the fibrous membrane.
6. Disruption of the brain, which processes sensations coming from this area.
7. Malfunction of the nerve endings approaching the area behind the tonsils.

The most common causes of a sore throat are infectious inflammation of the tonsils (tonsillitis) and the back wall of the pharynx (pharyngitis). Here you need to act quickly so that the infection, which has been inhibited by the tonsils and smaller lymphoid tissue, does not go down to the bronchi and lungs. Therefore, below we will look at the main causes, their symptoms and differences from each other.

The main causes of a sore throat

It is easier to understand the reason for the development of such a symptom as a sore throat if you remember how it manifests itself:

1. appeared acutely, sharply, against the background of complete health;
2. There is a constant sore throat, but there are periods of improvement, when the symptom can be forgotten, and stages when it comes back with renewed vigor.

A dry cough is almost always accompanied by a sore throat: this is a reflex reaction to irritation of the receptors of the mucous membrane or swelling that occurs when it is inflamed. In some cases, the cough can be wet, when the body not only tries to get rid of the microbe or irritant that caused the inflammation, but tries to do it effectively by dissolving it in a small amount of liquid and then turning on the cough reflex.

A sore throat appeared sharply, suddenly

This describes 2 main diseases - ARVI and allergies. Sometimes a sudden tickle appears due to a sudden reflux of hydrochloric acid from the stomach, as well as the accidental ingestion of some aggressive chemical substance.

Acute respiratory disease

If your throat starts to feel sore, and the person:

• I do not smoke;
• does not work in hazardous industries;
• did not take new pills;
• did not “get acquainted” with new plants, animals, household chemicals, did not end up in a dusty room,

this indicates that he has an acute respiratory disease caused by viruses (ARVI), bacteria or fungi. The diagnosis may sound like:

1. “ARI: acute tonsillitis” - then there is inflammation of the tonsils;
2. “ARI: acute pharyngitis” - this means that the microbe has caused inflammation of the pharynx;
3. “ARI: acute nasopharyngitis”: inflammation of the nasal and oropharyngeal mucosa occurred. In this situation, there is a runny nose and a sore throat.

Viruses

The viral nature of the disease is indicated by:

• red and watery eyes;
• sneezing;
• the throat is very sore;
• temperature 37, sometimes higher or lower;
• cough is usually dry;
• if you have a runny nose and it has just begun, then the snot is clear and liquid;
• may sore throat and nose;
• if you look into the throat, you can see that it is very red (that is, the tonsils, the uvula between them and the back wall of the pharynx are colored much more intensely than the gums). The back wall of the pharynx (what is visible behind the tonsils) is also red, with tubercles (“grains”) of lymphoid tissue visible on it. They are red in color.

Flu

With the flu, you may also experience a sore throat. But here this symptom is often not so disturbing, because the following come to the fore:

• aches throughout the body, especially in the muscles and joints;
• high, fluctuating body temperature;
• there may be chest pain;
• dry cough.

A runny nose and sneezing are not typical for the flu. Learn more about flu symptoms.

Fungus

Fungal infection of the throat (acute fungal pharyngitis) occurs after treatment with antibiotics against the background of immune and blood diseases. It manifests itself:

• soreness;
• sensation of a “lump” in the throat;
• pain when swallowing, which radiates to the jaw, neck and/or ear;
• dry cough;
• increased temperature;
• if you open your mouth and breathe in it, while looking in the mirror, you can see a red throat, when the tonsils and back wall of the pharynx are covered with a whitish or yellowish coating.

Bacteria

If inflammation of the pharynx and tonsils is caused by pyogenic bacteria, the following symptoms develop:

• first - a sore throat, then - a sore throat, very strong;
• simultaneously with the tickling, the temperature rises to 40 °C;
• there is a feeling of a “lump” in the throat”;
• painful to swallow;
• headache;
• dry cough;
• When examining the throat, it is clear that it is red; yellow or gray viscous pus is visible on the back wall.

Angina

If there is yellow, white or white-grayish pus on the tonsils, in their natural recesses, the throat is very sore, the temperature has risen to high levels and it is painful to swallow, most likely the person has developed a sore throat. This is a highly contagious bacterial disease. In this case, you need the help of an ENT specialist and an infectious disease specialist. If we are talking about a child, it is better to go to an infectious diseases hospital: such a sore throat, if treatment is not followed, is dangerous for the heart and kidneys.

Rejection of hydrochloric acid into the throat

In this case, there does not have to be gastritis or peptic ulcer, which are manifested by pain in the upper abdomen, nausea and vomiting. Sometimes it is enough to just lie down immediately after eating or eat it while lying down, especially when the orbicularis muscle that separates the esophagus and stomach is relaxed.

Allergic pharyngitis

Contact with household dust, flowering plants, inhaled medications, animal hair, perfumes, household chemicals, mold, and certain food products can lead to:

• sore throat and cough;
• cough;
• runny nose;
• and even a temperature of 37 or slightly higher.

In this case, there may be a red rash on the body, a slight headache, and watery eyes. There are no aches in the muscles, no pain behind the sternum. If you suspect the allergic nature of a sore throat, you need to take an antihistamine (such as Diazolin, Fenistil) and consult an allergist.

Throat injuries

Injury to the pharyngeal mucosa by a fish bone, large dust particles or other foreign bodies leads to the development of inflammation at the site of injury. This is accompanied by pain and sore throat, pain when swallowing.

If bacteria attach to the site of inflammation, this will cause increased sore throat, fever, weakness and headache. Purulent sputum may be coughed up.

If you have a constant sore throat

This could be due to one of many reasons.

Staying in a room with dry air

When air humidity is less than 50%, and a person has been indoors for more than 2 hours, you can get a sore throat. It is not accompanied by other symptoms: runny nose, fever, malaise.

Smoking

A similar symptom can be caused by smoking. Then it is also present in the singular, not accompanied by other features.

Abuse of vasoconstrictor nasal drops

Difficulty breathing through the nose (for example, due to chronic sinusitis), when only its symptomatic elimination is carried out with drops such as Galazolin, Naphthyzin, Xylo-Mefa and others, causes a narrowing of the vessels of the pharynx, which is accompanied by a sore throat and constant coughing.

Exposure to occupational hazards and adverse environmental factors

Production, in which the side effect is the appearance of large and medium-sized dust particles in the air, exhaust gases, vapors of varnishes and paints can also cause a sore throat, accompanied by a dry cough. There is no muscle aches or fever. It becomes easier in a clean room or in the fresh air, and a coughing attack is relieved by drinking clean water.

Neurosis of the pharynx

If the functioning of the nerve endings that send commands to the upper digestive tract is disrupted, this is called pharyngeal neurosis. The disease most often appears in the autumn-spring period, usually after a provoking factor such as a cold. But the causes of neurosis lie deeper. This could be syphilis, nervous disorders, or tumors of the pharynx and larynx.

In this case, a person feels a constant tickling, tickling, burning sensation in the throat, a feeling of a “lump” in it. A dry cough often appears. It is paroxysmal, especially painful when excited or worried.

There is no fever, drowsiness, or headache, the person feels healthy. Taking antiseptic lozenges (Strepsils, Septolete, Faringosept) does not lead to the disappearance of symptoms.

Diabetes

A sore throat is not the only symptom of this disease. It is also manifested by thirst, the release of large amounts of urine, urination at night, and prolonged wound healing. Read more about the symptoms of diabetes.

Nodular goiter

If a node has formed in the thyroid gland, this may be accompanied by a sore throat, because this node puts pressure on the trachea, which is connected by nerves to the pharynx. This may be the only symptom of the disease if the goiter is not accompanied by an increase or deterioration in thyroid function. With hyperthyroidism, you will experience weight loss, irritability, rapid heartbeat, and increased appetite. If the gland produces few hormones, a person becomes sluggish, his heartbeat and metabolism slow down, his skin becomes swollen and dense, his hair becomes sparse; body weight increases.

Vocal cord overstrain

This pathology develops in those who, due to their duties, are forced to talk or sing a lot (speakers, singers, teachers, actors, lecturers). In this case, there are no signs of acute respiratory viral infection, but the throat is constantly sore, the voice may disappear for a while, but may become hoarse or low.

Tumors of the throat or larynx

The symptoms of these pathologies are similar to ARVI. This includes tickling in the throat, dryness, slight pain in the throat, and a change in voice to a more hoarse or hoarse voice. The difference from acute respiratory infections is that with tumors the temperature does not rise, headaches or weakness are not felt. There is only a slight decrease in performance, and this, as well as the soreness and dryness in the throat, are getting worse.

Diseases of the gastrointestinal tract

A sore throat can be caused by any of the following diseases:

• peptic ulcer;
• gastritis with reflux of stomach contents into the esophagus above;
• cholecystitis;
• pancreatitis;
• hiatal hernia.

It is mainly associated with the ingress of gastric secretions with hydrochloric acid and (in the case of cholecystitis and pancreatitis) bile that gets there. And if you feel periodic nausea, a burning sensation in the chest after eating, stool disorders, bitterness in the mouth, or pain in the upper abdomen after eating hot, spicy food, the soreness is most likely associated with gastrointestinal pathologies.

Symptom of sore throat in pediatrics

If a child has a sore throat, most likely he is developing either an acute viral disease, or a sore throat, or this is how an allergy manifests itself. In the first case, the baby will sneeze, parents will notice redness in his eyes, and snot appears from his nose. With a sore throat, you will notice that the child has become less active, his temperature is elevated, and due to pain when swallowing, he refuses to eat and drink.

Allergic pharyngitis will manifest itself as a sore throat, coughing, possibly lacrimation and other allergy symptoms (swelling of the face, difficulty breathing, hives). It is distinguished from ARVI by the absence of an increase in temperature to high numbers and minor symptoms of malaise. An allergic irritation appears after contact with something new for the child: plants, animals, medicines, household chemicals, being in conditions with a high content of book dust in the air.

Perspiration in children can also be observed after staying in a smoky, poorly ventilated room, or a place where materials were painted or varnished.

Oncological diseases, pharyngeal neurosis, gastroesophageal reflux, and bronchial asthma are extremely rare causes of sore throat in children.

Basic questions about symptoms

1. If you have a sore throat and a dry cough, it could be any of the diseases listed above.
2. A sore throat and runny nose are symptoms of either acute respiratory infections or allergies.
3. Paroxysmal soreness, worsening at night and with excitement, is a sign of laryngeal neurosis.
4. Soreness after eating. This is a symptom of gastric contents refluxing into the throat.
5. Itchy throat and cough appears only at night. This is how bronchial asthma or whooping cough can manifest in adults.
6. Perishes after being in a room where paint and varnish materials were used. This indicates irritation and drying of the pharyngeal mucosa by toxic substances (mild chemical burns of the mucous membrane).
7. A sore throat in the morning can occur if you breathe with your mouth open while sleeping, with an exacerbation of chronic tonsillitis, or with gastroesophageal reflux.

Algorithm for treating a sore throat

To decide what to treat if you have a sore throat, you need to find the cause of this phenomenon.

As you can see, treatment for conditions with a sore throat can be completely different: it all depends on the disease that caused this symptom.

What to do if your throat is very sore:

1. Take an antihistamine that is suitable for you.
2. Stop smoking and drinking alcohol.
3. Buy an antiseptic with an anesthetic at the pharmacy (for example, Strepsils 2 in 1 or Septolete). If you are not allergic to anesthetics (the teeth were treated/removed with an injection and there was no reaction to this), you can purchase a spray (see all throat sprays, for example, Strepsils, Stopangin or Kollustan).
4. If ulcers are visible in the throat, immediately call a doctor at home. You cannot take antibiotics before this.
5. Avoid contact with possible allergens.
6. Apply nasal drips to the salt preparation “No-Sol”, “Aqua-Maris”, “Physiomer”, “Aqualor”.
7. Eliminate from your diet all spicy, peppery, smoked, sour, bitter, hot and spicy foods that can cause throat irritation.
8. Sleep on a high pillow.
9. Ensure voice rest.
10. Drink plenty of liquid: teas with honey, linden, with raspberry or currant branches.
11. Drink milk with honey at night (if you are not allergic to it).
12. You can take a Valerian tablet or motherwort tincture at night.
13. Make a vodka compress. To do this, moisten a piece of cotton wool or gauze with vodka, wrap it around the throat, put cellophane on top and cover it with a woolen scarf.

Traditional methods for treating a sore throat

Traditional medicine for a sore throat suggests that both adults and children drink more liquid in the form of:

• tea with raspberries;
• rowan infusion;
• rosehip decoction;
• linden decoction with honey;
• herbal teas;
• decoction of parsley leaves.

Healers say that your diet should include:

• lingonberries;
• cranberries;
• lemon;
• jams from currants, strawberries, raspberries.

It is also recommended to breathe without heating, but by spraying in the room:

• onion and garlic juice;
• pine tincture;
• pharmaceutical tincture of eucalyptus.

There are also the following recipes for fighting infection in the nasopharynx and oropharynx:

1. You need black radish, honey and milk. Black radish must be grated and squeezed to obtain juice. Mix 1 part radish juice and 2 parts milk. To make it drinkable, add 1-2 tsp. honey into a glass of the product. You need to take 1 tbsp. spoon three times a day, warm, after meals.
2. Mix 1:1 blackcurrant and cherry juice, add a tablespoon or more of honey. You should drink 2 glasses of the product per day.
3. Several mint leaves are poured with boiling water, infused for 3-4 hours, and filtered. You need to gargle with this infusion.
4. Take 1-2 beets and make juice. For a glass of juice you need a spoonful of apple cider vinegar. This gargle is used three times a day, after each meal.

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How to treat a sore throat and runny nose

Every person has experienced a sore throat and nasal congestion, but not everyone knows how to properly cope with the symptoms of a respiratory disease.
A common runny nose often transforms into sinusitis or frontal sinusitis, and pain in the larynx is the first sign of an incipient sore throat or bronchitis.

Knowing how to quickly cure nasal congestion and discomfort in the throat, you can not only avoid complications, but also restore your ability to work as soon as possible.

How to soothe a sore throat?

Thanks to the many medicines available in pharmacies today, you can quickly and effectively eliminate the onset of sore throat and diseases in which the larynx becomes irritated. The most popular medications today are:

• Agisept. Tablets are recommended if your throat hurts and a runny nose interferes with normal functioning. Sucking on such lollipops relieves irritation and pain in the larynx. In addition, the medicine helps improve overall health. Both adults and young patients (over 6 years old) can be treated with Adjisept. The pills should be dissolved every 3 hours (no more than 8 pieces per day).
• Grammidin. A Russian-made medicine that is effective against many throat diseases due to its active effect on bacterial microflora. Available in both the classic version and with the addition of an anesthetic. For very severe sore throat, it is recommended to buy the second option of tablets. Treatment with Grammidin is carried out for 5 or 6 days (2 tablets per dose 4 times a day).
• Strepsils. Lollipops are available in various flavors, but if a cold is accompanied not only by a sore throat, but also a runny nose, you should choose lozenges with the addition of menthol and eucalyptus. By dissolving such tablets, you can make nasal breathing easier for a long time without the use of additional means,
• Karmolis. Suitable for treating people who prefer herbal medicine to modern medicines, since the lollipops contain ten varieties of alpine herbs. The version of the tablets developed for children does not contain menthol (the effectiveness is ensured by lemon and honey), so the tablets will appeal to even the smallest patients.
• Lysobacter. They are one of the drugs approved during pregnancy and breastfeeding. They have a good antiseptic effect, in addition, they contain pyridoxine, which promotes the regeneration of the mucous membrane. The tablets should be dissolved slowly, keeping the dissolved medicine in the mouth for as long as possible. The treatment course is no more than 8 days.
• Faringosept. Suitable for treating young children (from 3 years old). They have a bacteriostatic effect and cause a minimal number of adverse reactions. It is necessary to be treated with Faringosept for 3-4 days.
• Tantum Verde. It is a medicine that is active against a wide range of microorganisms. The drug has not only an analgesic but also an anti-inflammatory effect. Therapy should not be continued (1 tablet 3 times a day) for longer than a week.

By sucking lozenges, you can treat a sore throat only after consulting a doctor. Many people consider such pills to be one of the safest medications, but this is far from true.

Drugs that eliminate discomfort in the larynx have a number of contraindications, so most of them are prohibited for use in pregnant women and young children. There are also pills that cannot be used to treat when planning a new addition to the family.

For example, such drugs include Stopangin and any other tablets containing phenol.

The doctor will help you choose the lollipops after the examination.

You can remove unpleasant sensations in the larynx by using modern aerosols, each of which is designed for different cases:

• for sore and dry throat, “Kameton” and “Proposan” will be effective;
• if painful sensations are associated with a sore throat, “Hexasprey”, “Lugol-Spray” or “Chlorophyllipt-Spray” is needed;
• for very severe pain and soreness, medications such as Strepsils Plus and Tantum Verde are indicated.

In what situation are antibiotics needed?

We also recommend reading:

How to treat a sore throat

Often people, trying to treat a runny nose and unbearable pain in the larynx, resort to antibacterial agents. Such therapy is not always justified.

You need to think about using antibiotics if the temperature has exceeded 38 degrees. This symptom may indicate that a bacterial infection has “settled” in the body. You can find out for sure whether this is so by doing a laboratory test.

Among the diseases that require antibiotic therapy to eliminate them are: pharyngitis, meningitis, tonsillitis and others. A person affected by such a disease feels a very rapid deterioration in health.

If timely control of bacteria has not been started, microorganisms can penetrate the lungs or bronchial tree, causing inflammation of the lungs or bronchial mucosa.

In many cases, antibiotics are also necessary for nasal congestion. Having noticed that the discharge from the sinuses has acquired a yellow-green tint, and there is a feeling of distension in the area of ​​the wings of the nose and forehead, you need to urgently visit a doctor.

A change in the color of nasal mucus indicates the addition of an infection and the formation of a purulent substrate. Similar symptoms, coupled with a sharp increase in body temperature, are characteristic of frontal sinusitis or sinusitis.

The inflammatory process in the paranasal sinuses requires the prescription of antibacterial agents, made after determining the type of infectious pathogen.

Most often, to eliminate the growth of pathogenic microflora in the oral and nasal cavity, the following drugs are used:

• Penicillin (“Amoxiclav”, “Flemoxin”, “Augmentin”);
• Cephalosporin (Cefatoxime, Suprax Solutab);
• Fluoroquinolone (“Ciprofloxacin”, “Gatifloxacin”);
• Macrolide (Summamed, Azithromycin).

How to properly disinfect your throat?

Rinsing the larynx with disinfectant solutions, for example, with the addition of furatsilin, helps to effectively treat pain. For each procedure, you need a freshly prepared mixture of a glass of warm water and 1 tablet of furatsilin. In order for the product to dissolve faster in liquid, the tablet can be crushed into a fine powder and mixed thoroughly in water.

You can disinfect, reduce inflammation and discomfort in the larynx by using a soda-salt solution. To prepare it you will need 1 teaspoon of soda, 200 ml of boiled water and 1 teaspoon of salt.

Having thoroughly dissolved all the components, add a drop of iodine to the liquid and mix until smooth.

Rinsing with such a product is good at clearing plaque from inflamed tonsils, but it can harm the mucous membrane, so you should not get carried away with using a soda solution.

One of the most powerful antimicrobial drugs is chlorophyllipt.

To treat the throat, you only need a few drops of the drug, diluted in half a glass of warm water. It is recommended to carry out this procedure at least 4 times during the day, gargling for 5 minutes.

A good therapeutic effect can also be achieved by using dried chamomile and calendula flowers to treat an inflamed larynx. An infusion of medicinal plants is quite simple to prepare: 1 teaspoon of each type of dry raw material is poured into a glass of boiled water, left for a quarter of an hour, filtered and used while the medicine is still warm.

After consulting with your doctor, during pregnancy you can only use throat aerosols based on sea water.

How to remove nasal congestion?

Modern tablets and nasal sprays help treat a runny nose that is accompanied by severe sinus congestion. Drugs that have pronounced anti-edematous and anti-inflammatory effects include Sinupret tablets.

The drug is also suitable for the treatment of rhinitis of bacterial or viral origin. The treatment course is from 7 to 14 days. As active substances, the tablets contain plant components (gentian root, verbena herb, elderberry flowers, etc.

).

Despite its natural composition, Sinupret is contraindicated during breastfeeding. The herbs present in the medicine can provoke a number of allergic reactions. During pregnancy, only a doctor should prescribe such tablets, having assessed the expected effect for the mother and the possible risks for the baby.

During the period when active production of mucus from the nasal passages began, it is useful to regularly rinse the paranasal sinuses.

It is best to use pharmaceutical disinfectant solutions for the procedure, for example, Aqualor Forte, but you can also use a means at hand - table salt.

In order to rinse, you will need a medical syringe without a needle or a rubber bulb.

If the paranasal sinuses are clogged with excessively viscous mucus, before starting the procedure it is necessary to treat the mucous membrane with a vasoconstrictor spray. Otherwise, the water that gets into the nasal passage will not flow out of the other nostril, which can result in an inflammatory process in the middle ear.

Having felt the first symptoms of a runny nose, many people begin to use drops and sprays that relieve nasal congestion, without thinking about the consequences.

Such drugs have only a temporary vasoconstrictor effect, and their long-term use is fraught with the development of chronic swelling of the nasal mucosa.

In order to prevent the development of rebound edema, treatment with vasoconstrictor drops should be avoided for longer than the period recommended in the attached instructions.

How to speed up recovery

What to do if you have a sore throat and runny nose? If the throat hurts with an increase in body temperature, the patient needs bed rest. In this case, the body will fight the manifestations of the disease much more effectively. The following tips will also help alleviate the condition of an adult or child who has a cold:

• A sick person needs to drink a lot of fluid (at least 2 liters per day). Cranberry juice, which has an antibacterial effect, can be used as drinks that promote recovery. Tea, especially ginger or with the addition of natural honey, is also useful for sore throat.
• You can quickly stop the inflammatory process by spending enough time rinsing the larynx with disinfectants.
• Drinking a glass of warm milk with the addition of a small amount of honey will help soothe a sore throat.
• The room where the patient spends time must be constantly ventilated (in the absence of the sick person). Pathogenic microorganisms cannot multiply in cool air, so for sore throat and runny nose, such a measure is a necessity.
• You should not immediately reduce the rising temperature if it does not exceed 38 degrees. In such conditions, the pathogens of the disease die, in addition, the immune system gives a persistent response and interferon is produced. Women carrying a child and babies in the first year of life need to reduce their body temperature already at 37.6 degrees.

Unpleasant sensations in the larynx caused by bacteria can transform into pneumonia or bronchitis, and nasal congestion can be a symptom of sinusitis. To prevent the development of such complications due to a cold, it is necessary to treat a runny nose in time and eliminate the causes that cause a sore throat.

Source: https://med-post.ru/zdorove/kak-lechit-bol-gorle-nasmork