Causes and risks Return to top Pharyngitis is caused by a variety of microorganisms. Spread among household members is common. The medical importance of recognizing strep throat as a cause of pharyngitis stems from the need to prevent its complications which can include acute rheumatic fever, kidney dysfunction and severe disease such as bacteremia and rarely streptococcal toxic shock syndrome. Treatment Return to top Treatment is dependent upon the underlying cause of pharyngitis. Viral infections are managed with supportive measures such as warm saline gargles, analgesics and fluids.
Antibiotic therapy is indicated if strep throat is diagnosed.
Prognosis Return to top Most cases of pharyngitis are self-limited and resolve without sequelae. Call your health care provider if Return to top Notify your provider if you develop a persistent sore throat that does not resolve in several days or if you have high fevers, swollen lymph nodes in the neck or rash. If you have a sore throat and develop difficulty breathing, you must seek medical care immediately. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. The information provided herein should not be used for diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition.