What Is Viral Pharyngitis?
6. What Treatments Are Available?
Because the cause is not a bacterium, antibiotics are not an effective treatment for viral pharyngitis. For most mild viruses, home care is typically the best option. If there is fever, body aches or other pain, ibuprofen, acetaminophen or other over-the-counter medication may help with symptoms. Sucking on throat drops can also help ease discomfort in the throat.
In most cases, viral pharyngitis will clear up on its own over time. However, there are things people can do to help speed up healing, ease symptoms or both. Sleep is always important when fighting off infection, so increasing rest time is a good start. People should stay hydrated from the inside by drinking lots of clear fluids, and they should also use a humidifier to increase moisture in the air. To soothe the throat, patients can suck on ice chips, drink warm beverages or gargle salt water.
Advertisement
