I have a question about the symptoms of tonsilitis. i have had a sore throat for about a week. there is no pain in speaking or eating but only after my throat is a bit dry, it is sharply painful....it appears that the back of my throat is red and swollen but i have no fever. i am just wondering if this is just a bad sore throat or something more serious. and i have never had strep throat or mono, just a couple episodes of post-nasal drip.
Reply: ------------------------------
The symptoms you are describing are suggestive of pharyngitis, although a physical examination would be required to make a definitive diagnosis. Pharyngitis is an inflammation of the lining of the throat which can have a variety of causes including infection (bacterial, viral, yeast), sinus drainage, metabolic disturbances, hydration, environmental irritants, gastro-esophageal reflux, etc. Since your symptoms have been present for a week or more, I would suggest consulting with your family physician.
--
Steve Dankle, MD
Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery
Milwaukee, Wis
NOTICE: OFCN is not engaged in the rendering of professional medical services. The information contained on this system or any other OFCN system should not supplant individual professional consultation. It is offered exclusively as a community education service. Advice on individual problems must be obtained directly from a professional.
Click here to review
previous Ear, Nose and Throat Clinic consultations