Understanding Pharyngitis: Causes, Symptoms, And Holistic Treatments

Pharyngitis, commonly known as a sore throat, is an inflammation of the pharynx—the area at the back of the throat. This condition is one of the most frequent reasons for doctor visits, especially during colder months, and can significantly impact daily activities due to discomfort and pain.

Pharyngitis refers to the inflammation of the mucous membranes lining the pharynx. It typically presents as a sore, scratchy, or burning sensation in the throat, often making swallowing or speaking painful. While pharyngitis itself is a symptom, it is most often a sign of an underlying infection or irritation.

Pharyngitis can be caused by a variety of factors, with infections being the most common. Other factors include allergies, dry air, smoking, mouth breathing, irritants, and even muscle strain from excessive voice use can also lead to pharyngitis.

Symptoms

The presentation of pharyngitis can vary depending on the cause but commonly includes:
1. Sore, dry, or scratchy throat
2. Pain or difficulty swallowing
3. Swollen, tender lymph nodes in the neck
4. Red, swollen tonsils, sometimes with white patches
5. Hoarseness or loss of voice
Additional symptoms may include sneezing, runny nose, cough, fever, headache, fatigue, body aches, chills, and loss of appetite, especially if associated with viral infections like the cold or flu.

Acupressure

While conventional treatments focus on symptom relief and, in the case of bacterial infections, antibiotics, holistic and traditional Asian therapies offer supportive measures that can enhance comfort and potentially speed recovery.

Take a Byol magnet and a piece of micro surgical paper adhesive tape. Place yellow side of the magnet on the adhesive side of the tape. Find lung meridian point No. 8 a with a probe. It is located below the wrist joint as shown in the figure. It will be slightly painful when touched with the probe. Place the tape with the magnet on this point and firmly stick the magnet to the point, preferably at night and remove it in the morning. Repeat the treatment using the same magnet, while changing the adhesive tape for a few days till problem vanishes.

Disclaimer: The content provided here is for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice.

Published on: Sunday, June 29, 2025, 12:00 AM IST