Throat infections

Throat infections are a very common form of illness that we have all experienced at some time. They are usually mild and easy to treat although they can turn nasty on occasion. If they do then medical treatment is required. This can be over the counter medication or prescription medicine from your GP.

So what are the most common throat infections?

These include:

  • Strep throat
  • Tonsillitis
  • Laryngitis
  • Pharyngitis
  • Diptheria
  • Bacterial throat infections
  • Viral throat infections
  • Glandular fever
  • Throat polyps
  • Quinsy
  • Candidiasis

Each of these is discussed separately within this section of the guide.

Both adults and children develop sore throats although children are particularly prone to infections such as tonsillitis and enlarged adenoids. In most cases they grow out of these but severe cases will require surgery.

This is discussed in more detail in our sore throat and children section.

Throat infections can be grouped into the following categories:

  • Viral infections
  • Bacterial infections
  • Fungal infections

These all cause a sore throat, a scratchy feeling at the back of the throat and difficulty with swallowing. These symptoms are common to many throat infections.

Other symptoms include swollen glands in the neck, nausea, swollen or white patches on the tonsils and a general feeling of being unwell.

Most throat infections clear up without any ill effects or can be treated at home. However, a sore throat or throat infection can be a side effect of certain forms of medication or medical conditions such as underactive thyroid or diabetes.

In some cases a throat infection can be a symptom of a serious disease such as cancer or AIDS.

© Medic8® | All Rights Reserved