About this condition
Pharyngitis is inflammation of the lining of the throat. An acute episode often accompanies a viral respiratory infection, while prolonged irritation may have several possible contributors.
What matters most
Throat redness, dryness and pain are not specific diagnoses. Similar symptoms can occur with tonsillitis, voice problems, postnasal drip or irritation from dry air and other exposures.
Symptoms and reasons to seek help
Patients report scratchiness, dryness, a lump-like feeling, mild painful swallowing, dry cough or mucus in the throat. The timing, presence of fever, nasal symptoms and contact with irritants help assessment.
Distinguishing similar conditions
An acute sore throat and months of repeated throat clearing may have different causes. Not every episode is bacterial and not every red throat warrants an antibiotic or throat swab.
How clinicians investigate
An ENT clinician reviews duration and associated symptoms and examines the pharynx and tonsils. Testing for streptococcal infection is considered when findings suggest that it may change treatment.
Care and important limitations
Care is based on the likely cause, hydration and exposure to irritants. Do not take antibiotics merely because of redness or discomfort. Persistent symptoms should be reassessed rather than repeatedly self-treated.
When emergency help is needed
Inability to swallow saliva, worsening breathing difficulty, noisy inhalation or rapid deterioration requires emergency help: call 103 or 112. Severe one-sided swelling or dehydration requires prompt in-person assessment.
Related information
Chronic tonsillitis; Acute tonsillitis in children; Hoarseness.
Signs and symptoms
Patients report scratchiness, dryness, a lump-like feeling, mild painful swallowing, dry cough or mucus in the throat. The timing, presence of fever, nasal symptoms and contact with irritants help assessment.
Diagnosis and tests
An ENT clinician reviews duration and associated symptoms and examines the pharynx and tonsils. Testing for streptococcal infection is considered when findings suggest that it may change treatment.
Care and treatment approaches
Care is based on the likely cause, hydration and exposure to irritants. Do not take antibiotics merely because of redness or discomfort. Persistent symptoms should be reassessed rather than repeatedly self-treated.
When to seek urgent care
Inability to swallow saliva, worsening breathing difficulty, noisy inhalation or rapid deterioration requires emergency help: call 103 or 112. Severe one-sided swelling or dehydration requires prompt in-person assessment.
Frequently asked questions
Is every case of pharyngitis bacterial?
No. Acute cases are often viral, and many other factors can cause persistent irritation.
Why can a throat feel scratchy without fever?
Dry air, irritation and other non-infectious factors may contribute. The context is important.
When are antibiotics appropriate?
Only when a clinical assessment supports a bacterial cause or another recognised indication.
Important information
A medical consultation is needed for diagnosis and treatment recommendations.
Self-treatment can be harmful to your health.
