There are many reasons a person may experience an occasional sore throat. During allergy season, irritants in the air may lead to a sore throat. Respiratory infections are also notorious for causing a sore throat. In many instances, a sore throat is just a nuisance that passes quickly. However, there are many times when a painful throat requires the expertise of an Ear Nose And Throat Doctor in Bethlehem PA.
The Pain Sticks Around
As mentioned previously, many sore throats clear up quickly without any intervention. However, if a sore throat persists for more than a few days, it may be the sign of something more serious. An Ear Nose And Throat Doctor in Bethlehem PA is trained to thoroughly examine patients to determine the cause of a sore throat. If the problem turns out to be related to allergies, the doctor may prescribe a medication or recommend routine allergy shots. If there is a virus in the patient’s system, the doctor will treat the illness to alleviate the pain.
The Pain Is Excruciating
While throat pain is never pleasant, there are some instances when the pain becomes so intense that the patient is unable to speak or eat. When this happens, the patient should seek medical attention right away. This is often the sign of a serious infection. Tonsillitis, an infection of the tonsils, is notorious for causing severe throat pain. If a patient gets tonsillitis several times in one year, their doctor may opt to remove their tonsils. Excruciating throat pain may also be an indicator of cancer or an injury.
The Pain Causes Other Symptoms
A sore throat may be the only symptom a patient has. However, if the patient begins to develop additional symptoms, it’s best to see a doctor for an accurate diagnosis. An ear, nose, and throat doctor understands how the different regions of the head are connected. A sore throat that is accompanied by coughing or post nasal drip may be the result of untreated allergies. If the patient experiences ringing in the ear or dizziness, they may have a sinus infection or disorder.
Even though sore throats are a common complaint at , they should be taken seriously. Any sore throat that doesn’t go away, causes severe pain, or is accompanied by other symptoms, needs to be examined by a doctor.
