What is "pharyngitis"

Pharyngitis \Phar`yn*gi"tis\, n. [NL. See Pharynx, and -itis.] (Med.) Inflammation of the pharynx.

1824, from stem of pharynx + -itis.

n. Inflammation of the pharynx.

n. inflammation of the fauces and pharynx [syn: sore throat, raw throat]

Pharyngitis is inflammation of the back of the throat, known as the the pharynx. It typically results in a sore throat and fever. Other symptoms may include a runny nose, cough, headache, a hoarse voice. Symptoms usually last three to five days. Complications can include sinusitis and acute otitis media. Pharyngitis is typically a type of respiratory tract infection.

Most cases are caused by a viral infection. Strep throat is the cause in about 25% of children and 10% of adults. Uncommon causes include other bacteria such as gonorrhea, fungus, irritants such smoke, allergies, and gastroesophageal reflux disease. Specific testing is not recommended in people who have clear symptoms of a viral infection such a cold. Otherwise a rapid antigen detection test or throat swab is recommended. Other conditions that can produce similar symptoms include epiglottitis, thyroiditis, retropharyngeal abscess, and occasionally heart disease.

NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen, can be used to help with the pain. Topical lidocaine may also help. Strep throat is typically treated with antibiotics, such as either penicillin or amoxicillin. It is unclear if steroids are useful in acute pharyngitis, other than possibly in severe cases.

About 7.5% of people have a sore throat in any three month period. This resulted in 15 million physician visits in the United States in 2007. Pharyngitis is the most common cause of a sore throat. On the average, adults get a sore throat two to three times a year and children about five times a year. The word comes from the Greek word pharynx meaning " throat" and the suffix -itis meaning "inflammation."