Sign-in to Ask A Doctor - 24x7
OR
Sign in with GoogleGet your health question answered instantly from our pool of 18000+ doctors from over 80 specialties
What To Do When Gargling Doesn T Reduce The Pain While Swallowing, Head Aches, Inflammatory Back In A Person With Pharyngitis?
I have pharyngitis, the left side now the right. It is so severe that swallowing is acutely painful, my head aches, my back feels on fire and generally I feel very low. Have been gargling several times a day, taking fortes 6 hourly and Strepsils but nothing is helping. This is the 4th full day and it is so painful and I liken it to the tonsillitis I had as a child. I m 66 years old. I have read up on pharyngitis and saw the Doctor who as with the internet stated antibiotics won t help. The pain however is not decreasing any suggestions, or just persevere the way I m going? Thank you, Robyn
Fri, 10 Jan 2014
Hello,
Acute pharyngitis is generally caused by a viral infection but in some cases it can be caused by a bacterial infection.
Normally no antibiotics are given as the condition generally resolves within 3-7 days.
Antibiotic course is given if your finds evidence of bacterial infection in throat or if throat swab culture is positive.
I would advise you to wait for 2 days more or you can alternatively go for a throat swab culture.
If culture is positive,then take antobiotics otherwise there is no need because if it is viral,it would b over by the time culture report comes.
Thanks
Acute pharyngitis is generally caused by a viral infection but in some cases it can be caused by a bacterial infection.
Normally no antibiotics are given as the condition generally resolves within 3-7 days.
Antibiotic course is given if your finds evidence of bacterial infection in throat or if throat swab culture is positive.
I would advise you to wait for 2 days more or you can alternatively go for a throat swab culture.
If culture is positive,then take antobiotics otherwise there is no need because if it is viral,it would b over by the time culture report comes.
Thanks
I find this answer helpful
Note: Consult an experienced Otolaryngologist / ENT Specialist online for further follow up on ear, nose, and throat issues - Book a Call now.
Disclaimer: These answers are for your information only and not intended to replace your relationship with your treating physician.
This is a short, free answer.
For a more detailed, immediate answer, try our premium service
[Sample answer]
Related questions you may be interested in
Recent questions on Acute pharyngitis
Loading Online Doctors....