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Writer's pictureDr Vivek Viswanathan

"Understanding Chronic Pharyngitis in Children: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options"

Chronic pharyngitis refers to a persistent sore throat that lasts for weeks or even months in children. Unlike a typical sore throat caused by a virus that goes away within a week or two, chronic pharyngitis can be a source of significant discomfort and disrupt a child's daily life.




Here's a breakdown of chronic pharyngitis in children:


Causes:

  • Frequent Infections: Repeated bouts of viral or bacterial infections in the throat can lead to chronic inflammation.

  • Allergies: Allergies to pollen, dust mites, pet dander, or certain foods can irritate the throat and trigger chronic pharyngitis.

  • Postnasal Drip: Drainage from a chronic sinus infection or allergies can irritate the back of the throat, causing a persistent sore throat.

  • Dry Air: Dry indoor air can irritate the throat tissues and worsen symptoms.

  • Irritants: Exposure to smoke, secondhand smoke, or other environmental irritants can contribute to chronic pharyngitis.

  • Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): Stomach acid refluxing up into the esophagus can irritate the throat, leading to a chronic sore throat sensation.

  • Less Common Causes: In rare cases, chronic pharyngitis might be linked to enlarged tonsils, tumors, or underlying medical conditions.


Symptoms:

  • Persistent sore throat

  • Scratchiness or dryness in the throat

  • Difficulty swallowing

  • Painful cough, especially at night

  • Swollen lymph nodes in the neck

  • Difficulty sleeping due to throat discomfort

  • Hoarseness (change in voice)



Diagnosis:

A pediatrician will typically diagnose chronic pharyngitis through a physical examination and may recommend additional tests like a throat swab culture to rule out bacterial infection.


Treatment:

Treatment for chronic pharyngitis depends on the underlying cause. Here are some common approaches:


  • Medications: Depending on the cause, medications like pain relievers, allergy medications, or antibiotics might be prescribed.

  • Lifestyle Changes: Using a humidifier to combat dry air, avoiding irritants like smoke, and managing allergies can significantly improve symptoms.

  • Saltwater Gargle: Gargling with warm saltwater can soothe a sore throat.

  • Lozenges: Over-the-counter lozenges can provide temporary relief.


Complications:

While not life-threatening, chronic pharyngitis can impact a child's sleep, eating, and overall well-being. It's important to seek medical attention for persistent symptoms to ensure proper diagnosis and treatment.


Additional Resources:

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Jun 05
Rated 5 out of 5 stars.

Very good and informative writeup

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