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What can cause frequent throat infection?

This Premium Q&A, reviewed and published, features a real conversation between an iCliniq user and a physician.

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

I used to get throat infection whenever I drink cold water. Due to weather also drinking water gets cold. Even that leads to throat infection. What measure shall I take to protect myself from throat infection?

Answered by Dr. Shyam Kalyan N

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Shyam Kalyan N is a highly skilled Allergy and ENT Specialist dedicated to diagnosing and treating a wide range of ear, nose, throat, and allergy-related conditions. With expertise in advanced ENT care and allergy management, he provides personalized treatment plans that improve overall health and quality of life. Known for his patient-focused approach and clinical excellence, he combines modern medical practices with compassionate care to ensure long-term wellness.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

Many patients come to me with this complaint of frequent sore throat. First I would say do not worry about this. We must evaluate if there is any pathogenic organism residing in the throat and causing recurrent infections. For the same a throat swab (culture and sensitivity) test is required based on which we can proceed further treatment. If tonsils are the foci of infection they frequently enlarge and cause obstructive symptoms like difficulty in swallowing, pain while swallowing and also bad smell from mouth. A physical examination by an otolaryngologist can easily diagnose tonsillar enlargement. Rather you can send me a selfie with open mouth taking care the back of throat is visible and tongue does not obstruct the view. Frequently the condition can be allergic when it does not result in pain and pus but causes frequent itching, throat discomfort and nasal discharge and sneezing. On the inflamed mucosa secondarily bacteria can multiply and produce an infection.

Throat infection can cause pain and infection in the ear due to continuity with ear through the eustachian tube. Eustachian tube which serves to maintain equal pressure on both sides of eardrum and drain ear secretions can result in ear pain and fullness when blocked. As general precautions in addition to salt water gargles, take steam inhalation also. During throat pain, use Chlorhexidine gargles. Mix 5 tablespoon Chlorhexidine in plain water and gargle the throat and spit out the fluid. Also let us know if you have any additional symptoms like cough, vomiting, fever, headache, giddiness, etc., which can help us to make more decisive diagnosis. Also let us know about your habits and please mention any medication you are taking for diabetes or hypertension, etc.

Investigations to be done

1. Throat swab. 2. Total blood count.

Differential diagnosis

1. Allergic rhinopharyngitis.

2. Chronic pharyngitis.

3. Chronic tonsillopharyngitis.
Medically reviewed by iCliniq medical review team
Published At June 13, 2018
Reviewed At January 25, 2024

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Shyam Kalyan N is a highly skilled Allergy and ENT Specialist dedicated to diagnosing and treating a wide range of ear, nose, throat, and allergy-related conditions. With expertise in advanced ENT care and allergy management, he provides personalized treatment plans that improve overall health and quality of life. Known for his patient-focused approach and clinical excellence, he combines modern medical practices with compassionate care to ensure long-term wellness.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

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Frequent Throat Infection Awareness Builder

Frequent sore throat?

Five quick questions help you understand common causes of frequent throat infections and when it's time to talk to a doctor.

This tool provides educational information only and does not diagnose, treat, or replace professional medical advice. Consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalized medical guidance.

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Shyam Kalyan N is a highly skilled Allergy and ENT Specialist dedicated to diagnosing and treating a wide range of ear, nose, throat, and allergy-related conditions. With expertise in advanced ENT care and allergy management, he provides personalized treatment plans that improve overall health and quality of life. Known for his patient-focused approach and clinical excellence, he combines modern medical practices with compassionate care to ensure long-term wellness.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

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