hope this help alot..I know this got nothing to do with food but more into health instead.The truth is,I am having a terrible sore throat so when to the web to look for remedies.I stop by here to post articles about sore throat!so hopefully you guys find it useful when you are having sore throat.Hope this help you guys out there..Here is everything about sore throat(it is killing me right now)
A sore throat is caused by inflammation at the back of the throat. The proper medical term is pharyngitis.Most sore throats are caused by a bacterial or viral infection, and can be the first sign of a cold or flu starting.The majority of sore throats are caused by viruses which are spread by coughing, sneezing, kissing and sharing cups and utensils with someone who has the illness. Bacterial causes of sore throats are also contagious.
The tonsils are thought to be part of the first line of the body's defence against potentially harmful germs. Bacteria or viruses enter the mouth or nose and are "picked up" in the tonsils or adenoids, and infection here can cause them to swell. Tonsillitis is an infection mainly in the tonsils which are areas of spongy tissue on the side of the back of the throat.
The cause:
Bacterial infection
Tonsillitis
Quinsy (peritonsillar abscess)
Other possible causes:
Laryngitis (losing your voice or croaky voice)
Diphtheria (now a rare disease thanks to immunisation)
Measles
Breathing through the mouth can cause the throat to dry and become painful
Draining from the sinuses can cause throat irritation
In some cases a sore throat could be a sign of throat cancer (usually in smokers) or AIDS (unusual infections or severe thrush/candida)
What are the symptoms?
The symptoms for a sore throat caused by both bacterial and viral causes are the same; they include pain with swallowing, red throat, swollen tonsils, swollen neck glands, pus covering the throat, coughing, and possibly a fever.Patients may also suffer from a headache, stomach ache, and their voice may become hoarse. They may experience nausea and vomiting if they have the flu or another illness.Most people's throats will begin to feel better within three to five days after the start of the illness.
What can be done?
Sore throats caused by a virus do not respond to antibiotics but there are several measures that can be taken to help reduce the discomfort:
Gargle with a cup of warm water and 1/2 a teaspoon of salt
Suck throat lozenges or use throat sprays
Use a pain reliever such as paracetamol every four hours
Drink plenty of water, soft drinks or milkshakes (water or electrolyte solutions are best if the patient is vomiting)
Eat soft foods such as ice cream, soups and mashed vegetables
Avoid smoking because this can cause further throat irritation
Info from Family Health
