Throat Diseases
Important and common diseases affecting the throat: Click on the following links for detailed information.
- Pharyngitis: Inflammation of the pharynx, often resulting in a sore throat. It can be caused by viral or bacterial infections.
- Tonsillitis: Inflammation of the tonsils, characterized by sore throat, fever, and swollen tonsils. It can be caused by viruses or bacteria.
- Laryngitis: Inflammation of the larynx, often leading to hoarseness or loss of voice. It’s usually caused by viral infections, overuse of the voice, or irritation.
- Strep Throat: A bacterial infection caused by group A Streptococcus, leading to a severe sore throat, fever, and swollen lymph nodes.
- Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): A chronic condition where stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, causing irritation and inflammation in the throat.
- Vocal Cord Nodules and Polyps: Benign growths on the vocal cords, often caused by vocal strain or overuse.
- Throat Cancer: Includes cancers of the pharynx, larynx, and other structures of the throat. Symptoms may include a persistent sore throat, difficulty swallowing, and changes in voice.
- Epiglottitis: Inflammation of the epiglottis, which can be life-threatening if it leads to airway obstruction. It’s less common now due to vaccinations.
- Dysphagia: Difficulty swallowing, which can be due to various causes, including neurological disorders, structural problems, or esophageal spasms.
- Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA): A condition where throat muscles intermittently relax and block the airway during sleep, leading to breathing pauses.
These conditions can vary in severity and may require different treatment approaches, from medication to surgery. Early diagnosis and management are essential for effective treatment and prevention of complications.