Amritsar, August 12 – In today’s changing weather conditions and rising pollution, throat infections have become a common yet concerning health issue. Senior ENT specialist at EMC Hospital, Amritsar, Dr. Amarnath, has recently issued a caution, urging people to stay alert. He explained that throat infections can be caused by a variety of factors — viral or bacterial infections, sudden weather changes, excessive consumption of cold items, prolonged exposure to dust and smoke, smoking habits, and a weakened immune system.
Symptoms and Identification
According to Dr. Amarnath, symptoms may include a sore throat, persistent pain, difficulty swallowing or speaking, swelling in the throat, fever, and sometimes ear pain. In some cases, patients may also experience burning sensations in the throat, dryness, and bad breath. Ignoring these symptoms can worsen the infection, potentially leading to tonsillitis, laryngitis, or severe throat inflammation.
Diagnosis Process
Accurate diagnosis is crucial for proper treatment. Doctors generally conduct a detailed physical examination and may recommend a throat swab culture, blood tests, or other diagnostic procedures when necessary. These tests help determine whether the infection is viral or bacterial, guiding the treatment in the right direction.
Treatment and Prevention
Dr. Amarnath advises that in the early stages, adequate rest, gargling with warm salt water, consuming warm fluids, and avoiding dust and smoke can bring significant relief. If the infection is bacterial, completing a prescribed course of antibiotics under medical supervision is essential. Pain relievers, steam inhalation, and warm soups can also help ease discomfort. He cautions against self-medicating, as taking medicines without medical advice can be harmful.
Awareness is Prevention
Dr. Amarnath emphasizes that taking throat health lightly can be risky. “Neglecting throat problems can lead to serious complications. Timely check-ups and proper treatment not only help control infections but also prevent them from becoming severe,” he said.
EMC Hospital, Amritsar, offers state-of-the-art facilities and a team of experienced specialists for the treatment of throat and ENT-related conditions, ensuring patients receive timely and effective medical care.
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