In our continuation of “Countdown to Flu 2010″ we will be comparing the difference between the flu and pharyngitis. Let’s use iTriage (iPhone, Android, or at www.itriagehealth.com) to learn about pharyngitis. Please see our previous posts or iTriage to learn more specific details about the flu.
Description
Pharyngitis is a throat infection. The pharynx is the part of the throat between the tonsils and the larynx, or vocal cords. Acute inflammation and infection of the pharynx can be caused by bacteria or viruses. Approximately 40%–60% of cases of pharyngitis are caused by a virus and about 15% are caused by the Streptococcus bacteria (strep throat). Other bacteria that can cause this infection include: Mycoplasma pneumoniae, Chlamydia pneumoniae, and Neisseria gonorrhoeae. The infection is spread from person to person contact and smokers have a higher risk of infection. Frequent hand washing and covering one’s mouth when coughing can decrease the spread of the infection. Although rare, the infection can become severe spreading into the neck and chest, and can cause airway obstruction.
Symptoms
Sore throat, fever, headache, and swollen lymph nodes in the neck. Viral causes may be associated with runny nose and postnasal drip. Severe cases can cause: difficulty swallowing, difficulty breathing, and stiff neck.
Tests to Diagnose
A history and physical exam will be performed. A rapid stress test, throat culture, and/or mono spot may be done to identify the organism.
Treatment
The treatment depends on the underlying cause. Viral infections are managed with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications/NSAIDs (ibuprofen/Motrin or Advil, naproxen/Naprosyn), pain medications such as acetaminophen (Tylenol), and oral fluids. Antibiotics are needed if strep throat is diagnosed, and the entire course should be taken to prevent Rheumatic fever. Patients with mononucleosis must avoid contact sports to prevent a splenic rupture.
As you can see pharyngitis can be caused by bacteria or viruses. Most cases of pharyngitis are actually caused by viruses and no specific treatment is needed. The table below can be used to help you tell the difference between the flu and pharyngitis.
Pharyngitis |
Flu |
|
Onset of symptoms |
Gradual |
Rapid |
Cough |
Absent or minimal |
Present |
Sore throat |
Moderate to severe |
Mild to moderate |
Fever |
Low grade |
Usually greater than 101 F (38.3 C) |
Muscle aches |
Absent or minimal |
Moderate to severe |
The best way to determine the difference between the flu and pharyngitis is to get a flu swab test and a rapid strep test. The results of these tests return in less than 1 hour and are available at retail clinics, urgent care clinics, emergency departments, or at your primary care doctor’s office. You can use iTriage to find these providers anywhere in the United States.
Tomorrow we will write about the difference between the flu and sinusitis.
