Viral Pharyngitis

Viral Pharyngitis is a sore, inflamed throat caused by a virus.

The following viruses are most likely to cause a sore throat:

• Adenovirus
• Rhinovirus
• Parainfluenza virus
• Coxsackie virus
• Herpes Simplex virus
• Epstein-Barr virus
• Cytomegalovirus

A risk factor is something that increases your chance of getting a disease or condition.

• Age: Children
• Cigarette smoking or exposure to second-hand smoke
• Living or working in close quarters such as:
  • Daycare
  • School
  • Military forces
• Diabetes
• Lowered immunity due to:
  • Excess fatigue
  • Poor eating habits
  • Poor hygiene
  • Recent illness

Symptoms include:

• Sore, red, swollen throat
• Trouble swallowing
• Decreased appetite
• Fatigue
• Swollen, tender lymph nodes in the neck and behind the ears

The doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history, and perform a physical exam. Most viral sore throats are diagnosed based on the symptoms and examination of the throat. Often, the throat will be swabbed to make sure that the sore throat isn't due to strep infection, which requires treatment with antibiotics.

There are no treatments to cure a viral sore throat. Most cases of Viral Pharyngitis heal on their own within about a week's time.
Treatments to relieve symptoms until the infection heals, include:
Over-the-counter Pain Medication
Sore throat pain can be treated with acetaminophen or ibuprofen.
Note: Aspirin is not recommended for children with a current or recent viral infection. Check with your doctor before giving a child aspirin.
Salt Water Gargle
Gargling with warm salt water can help relieve a sore throat.
Throat Lozenges
Using throat lozenges every couple of hours can help relieve sore throat and cough.
Fluids
Drink plenty of fluids. Hot drinks and soups can be very soothing for a sore throat.
Humidifier
Consider running a cool-mist humidifier. It can help keep your nasal passages moist and reduce congestion, two factors that can worsen a sore throat.

To reduce your chance of getting a viral sore throat:

• Practice good hygiene, including careful hand washing.
• Dont share food or beverages with other people.
• Avoid areas where people are smoking.