„The throat is red!” sounds like a diagnosis, but in reality, it’s far from it!
❤️ WHAT COLOR SHOULD THE THROAT BE?
The oropharyngeal mucosa, under normal circumstances, should be pink, pale, without pathological changes.
❤️ WHY IS IT RED THEN?
It is known that the mucosa of the throat often serves as the gateway for pathogens (viruses/bacteria). When these invaders pass through the mucosa, they enter the bloodstream. The body recognizes the invasion and sends a greater blood flow to the area of unauthorized crossing. This increased blood flow brings more blood and, consequently, more defenders (immune cells), causing the blood vessels to dilate. It is this intense blood flow that colors our mucosa in various shades of red.
❤️ DO WE NEED TREATMENT IF IT’S RED?
Let’s start by clarifying that „red throat” is not a diagnosis but merely a symptom, a sign.
If the patient, whether an adult or a child, does not have any complaints (e.g., pain, difficulty swallowing, tonsil deposits, etc.), treatment is not necessary!
❗ Remember: We do not treat lab results, we do not treat colors, we treat the INDIVIDUAL and their complaints. ❗
❤️ CHILD HAS FEVER AND THE DOCTOR DIAGNOSED A RED THROAT. ANTIBIOTICS?
Most throat conditions, including viral ones, can cause a red throat, but antibiotics are only indicated for streptococcal pharyngitis caused by Group A Beta-hemolytic Streptococcus!
Fever + red throat = acute VIRAL respiratory infection, that mysterious „ARVI” often written by doctors in diagnoses!
❌ We do not prescribe antibiotics ❌
? for viral infections!
? to prevent complications!
? to reduce fever!
? WHAT DO WE ADMINISTER FOR SORE THROAT?
? Pain = inflammation, so as an analgesic, we choose an anti-inflammatory drug. In the case of children, we opt for Paracetamol or Ibuprofen, even in the absence of fever.
? Throat sprays are intended for children older than 2-3 years, as the spraying action can cause laryngeal spasm (choking).
? Pay attention to sprays containing lidocaine! If the tongue and soft tissues of the throat become numb, the child may have difficulty swallowing and breathing properly!
