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Guilherme Mazui

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What is the Difference Between Pharyngitis and Laryngitis?

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Pharyngitis and laryngitis are both conditions that involve inflammation in the throat, but they affect different areas and have distinct symptoms.

Pharyngitis is an inflammation of the pharynx, which is located at the back of the throat. Common symptoms of pharyngitis include:

  • Fever
  • Painful swollen glands
  • Throat redness
  • Pain that can radiate into the ear
  • Coughing
  • Runny nose
  • Headache
  • Feeling tired

Laryngitis, on the other hand, is an inflammation of the larynx, or voice box. The larynx is located near the pharynx, just above the windpipe. Common symptoms of laryngitis include:

  • Irritating cough
  • Hoarseness or loss of voice
  • Sore, dry, or tickly throat
  • Difficulty swallowing

Both conditions are often caused by cold and flu viruses. Laryngitis can also be caused by fungal infections, overuse of the vocal cords, allergies, and acid reflux. The diagnosis of these conditions is typically made during a thorough physical exam focusing on the throat. Treatment for both pharyngitis and laryngitis usually involves resting the voice, keeping the throat moist, and maintaining increased humidity in the home. If symptoms persist or worsen, consult a doctor for further evaluation and treatment.

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  • What is the Difference Between Pharyngitis and Laryngitis?
  • Comparative Table: Pharyngitis vs Laryngitis

    • Comparative Table: Pharyngitis vs Laryngitis

    Here is a table comparing the differences between pharyngitis and laryngitis:

    Feature Pharyngitis Laryngitis
    Definition Inflammation of the pharynx, located behind the throat Inflammation of the larynx, located in the top of the neck
    Affected Area Back of the throat Voice box, controls breathing, swallowing, and speech
    Causes Viral, bacterial infections, allergies, exposure to second-hand smoking, etc. Viral, bacterial, fungal infections, smoking, overuse of the voice, allergies, acid reflux, etc.
    Symptoms Sore throat, pain, difficulty swallowing, fever, headache, and general aches and/or pains. Hoarseness, voice loss, sore throat, difficulty swallowing, and fever.
    Treatment Resting the voice, antibiotics or antifungal medications, pain relievers, honey or lozenges to soothe the throat, avoiding smoking, and staying hydrated. Saltwater gargles, pain relievers, and voice rest.

    Both pharyngitis and laryngitis are upper respiratory tract infections, but they affect different areas of the throat and have distinct symptoms and causes.

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    Guilherme Mazui

    Guilherme Mazui is graduated in journalism from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) and a master's degree in Communication from the University of São Paulo (USP). In addition, he has experience in advertising writing and has worked as a content editor in several companies.