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:Â Repeated bouts of viral or bacterial infections in the throat can lead to chronic inflammation.
Allergies:Â Allergies to pollen, dust mites, pet dander, or certain foods can irritate the throat and trigger chronic pharyngitis.
Postnasal Drip:Â Drainage from a chronic sinus infection or allergies can irritate the back of the throat, causing a persistent sore throat.
Dry Air:Â Dry indoor air can irritate the throat tissues and worsen symptoms.
Irritants:Â Exposure to smoke, secondhand smoke, or other environmental irritants can contribute to chronic pharyngitis.
Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD):Â Stomach acid refluxing up into the esophagus can irritate the throat, leading to a chronic sore throat sensation.
Less Common Causes:Â 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:Â Depending on the cause, medications like pain relievers, allergy medications, or antibiotics might be prescribed.
Lifestyle Changes:Â Using a humidifier to combat dry air, avoiding irritants like smoke, and managing allergies can significantly improve symptoms.
Saltwater Gargle:Â Gargling with warm saltwater can soothe a sore throat.
Lozenges:Â 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.
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