Angina – what is it? How to treat angina?
A sore throat can appear suddenly, even within an hour. Most often, it happens when the weather is unfavorable, it's cold or rainy outside, and vitamin-rich foods are scarce on your plate. As is typical in winter and spring, along with infections like COVID or the flu, you often consult a doctor with a sore throat.
We asked family medicine doctor Krzysztof Wiórkowski for some important medical details about angina.
What is angina and when does it most often occur?
– Tonsillitis is an acute inflammation of the throat and tonsils, most often caused by viruses (90-95%, including infectious mononucleosis caused by the EBV virus), and less frequently by bacteria (Streptococcus pyogenes – streptococcal pharyngitis and tonsillitis – is responsible for most cases). It is transmitted through droplets from another sick person, rarely from an asymptomatic carrier. The highest incidence occurs in late autumn, winter, and early spring, but this does not mean that tonsillitis cannot occur in the summer as well.
Acute pharyngitis or strep throat? How to recognize it?
Streptococcal pharyngitis and tonsillitis are characterized by a sudden onset – severe sore throat, fever, bright red, enlarged tonsils with pus deposits/plugs, and enlarged cervical lymph nodes. Children aged 5-15 are most commonly affected. Viral pharyngitis – a common cold – can cause a sore throat, a low-grade fever or normal body temperature, a cough, a runny nose, and reddened throat and tonsils. Mononucleosis can also cause generalized enlargement of the lymph nodes, abdominal pain, and tonsillar plaques.
How to treat angina?
– Most pharyngitis, even bacterial pharyngitis, resolves spontaneously within a few days. However, it's important to remember that untreated streptococcal pharyngitis is associated with a higher risk of purulent complications (peritonsillar abscess, purulent lymphadenitis) and immunological complications (rheumatic fever, acute glomerulonephritis). Rapid tests for Streptococcus pyogenes antigen, as well as throat swab culture, can be helpful in diagnosing streptococcal pharyngitis.
Bacterial pharyngitis should be treated with antibiotics. Symptomatic treatment is also important: antipyretics and analgesics, topical lozenges for the throat, and adequate hydration.
Can you eat ice cream when you have a sore throat?
"Many myths have arisen around eating ice cream when you have a sore throat. There's a widespread belief that ice cream is a home remedy for strep throat. Where does this conclusion come from? Well, ice cream acts like a cold compress, reducing the burning and scratching sensations and reducing the swelling in your throat. Unfortunately, this is a temporary solution. It won't eliminate the symptoms, only provide short-term relief.
At the beginning of the illness, when the patient has a fever, cold foods should be avoided. Ice cream, like drinking an iced drink, can exacerbate the symptoms. For the duration of the symptoms, it's worth adopting a liquid or finely chopped diet. Gargling, inhalation, and air humidification can be helpful, but remember the most important rule: don't self-treat strep throat—if you have a severe sore throat, fever, or tonsil plaque, consult your family doctor in Lublin.
Frequently asked questions – FAQ
What is angina?
Tonsillitis is an acute inflammation of the throat and tonsils. It is most often caused by viruses, and less frequently by bacteria, including streptococci.
When does angina most often occur?
Strep throat most often appears in late autumn, winter, and early spring, but it can also occur in summer. Infection usually occurs through droplets from an infected person.
What are the symptoms of bacterial tonsillitis?
Bacterial tonsillitis can begin suddenly and cause a severe sore throat, fever, enlarged tonsils with deposits or pus plugs, and enlarged cervical lymph nodes.
What is the difference between a sore throat and a cold?
A cold is more likely to cause a cough, runny nose, sore throat, and a mild or normal fever. Bacterial tonsillitis is more likely to cause a sudden, severe sore throat, high fever, and tonsillar sores.
Is strep throat contagious?
Yes. Strep throat can be spread through droplets, most often from an infected person. Therefore, during an infection, it's important to limit close contact with others, practice good hand hygiene, and avoid sharing utensils.
How is angina diagnosed?
The doctor will assess the symptoms and appearance of the throat and tonsils. If a streptococcal infection is suspected, a rapid Streptococcus pyogenes antigen test or a throat swab culture may be helpful.
How is angina treated?
Treatment depends on the cause of the infection. For bacterial tonsillitis, your doctor may recommend antibiotics. Symptomatic treatment, adequate hydration, and the use of antipyretic and pain medications as prescribed are also important.
Can you eat ice cream if you have angina?
Ice cream may temporarily soothe the burning and swelling of your throat, but it doesn't cure strep throat. If you have a fever and severe symptoms, it's best to avoid very cold foods and consult a doctor.
The information contained in this article is for general informational and educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. It is recommended that you consult a physician or other qualified healthcare professional for advice regarding specific symptoms, ailments, or health conditions.