Consequences of not treating a sore throat properly.

SKĐS - Sore throat is a very common ear, nose, and throat disease that can occur at all ages, especially increasing during seasonal changes or prolonged hot weather. Many people believe that sore throat is only a minor illness.

If not treated properly, a sore throat can be persistent, recur many times, and cause many dangerous complications that affect health.

Summer is a time when many people experience sore throats, burning sensations in the throat, hoarseness, or persistent coughs. The causes are not only viruses and bacteria, but also related to lifestyle habits during hot weather.

When the ambient temperature rises, the body sweats more to regulate body temperature. If not enough water is consumed, the mucous membranes of the throat will dry out, losing their natural protective layer, making them more susceptible to irritation and infection. Patients often experience a burning sensation in the throat, difficulty swallowing, dry throat, or persistent itching in the throat.

Many people have a habit of using ice, ice cream, or cold drinks to cool down, which increases the risk of sore throat and hoarseness.

During hot days, many people have a habit of turning on the air conditioner at a very low temperature. The sudden change in temperature from hot to cold makes it difficult for the body to adapt, causing the mucous membranes of the throat to constrict rapidly, leading to pharyngitis (sore throat).

Additionally, the air in air-conditioned rooms is often dry, causing the throat to lose its natural moisture and become more vulnerable. It's best to maintain the air conditioner temperature at around 25–27 degrees Celsius, use a fan on low setting, and avoid directing the cold air stream directly at your face or neck.

Many people have a habit of using ice, ice cream, or cold drinks to cool down, which increases the risk of sore throat and hoarseness. Especially in young children, excessive consumption of cold drinks can weaken the respiratory immune system.

Consequences of improper treatment of sore throat.

Many people tend to be complacent when they have a sore throat, self-medicating with antibiotics or using medication without a doctor's prescription. This not only prolongs the illness but also increases the risk of complications.

• Chronic sore throat, recurring frequently.

If left untreated, pharyngitis can become chronic. Patients often experience sore throats, persistent coughs, and hoarseness, especially when the weather changes. This significantly impacts daily life, studies, and work.

• Tonsillitis

A persistent sore throat can spread to the tonsils, causing swelling, pain, high fever, difficulty swallowing, and bad breath. Children are most susceptible to this complication due to their underdeveloped immune systems.

• Bronchitis and pneumonia

When bacteria or viruses from the throat spread down to the lower respiratory tract, patients are at risk of developing bronchitis or pneumonia.

Warning signs include: frequent coughing, coughing up yellow or green phlegm; high fever; chest pain; shortness of breath; persistent fatigue, etc. These are dangerous complications, especially in young children, the elderly, and those with underlying health conditions.

• Peripharyngeal abscess

In some severe cases of pharyngitis, abscesses can form around the tonsils or throat. Patients experience intense pain, difficulty swallowing, difficulty opening their mouths, high fever, and a risk of spreading infection. If not treated promptly, these abscesses can be life-threatening.

• Middle ear infection

The ears, nose, and throat are closely related organs. Infections in the throat can spread to the middle ear, causing ear pain, tinnitus, or hearing loss. This complication is common in children due to their short Eustachian tube structure, which makes them more susceptible to bacterial infection.

Therefore, patients should seek medical attention if they experience the following symptoms:

• Sore throat lasting more than 5 days
• Persistent high fever
• Frequent coughing, chest tightness
• Shortness of breath
• Severe pain when swallowing
• Persistent hoarseness
• There is white pus in the throat or tonsils.
• My body is very tired.

In particular, young children and the elderly need close monitoring because these groups are more susceptible to serious complications.

Preventing sore throats during hot weather.

Sore throats are completely preventable if you maintain a healthy lifestyle and protect your respiratory system properly.

Staying hydrated helps keep the throat lining moist and enhances the body's defenses against pathogens. Warm or moderately cool water is preferred, and ice-cold water should be avoided.

Use air conditioning appropriately, maintaining a temperature of around 25-27 degrees Celsius. Avoid having cold air blowing directly on you. Clean the air conditioner regularly. Limit sudden changes in temperature between hot and cold environments.

Gargling with saline solution daily helps clean out bacteria and reduce the risk of infection. In addition, brushing your teeth thoroughly and practicing proper oral hygiene are essential to limit bacterial growth.

People prone to sore throats should limit very cold drinks, alcohol, tobacco, and spicy foods. Instead, they should increase their intake of green vegetables and fruits rich in vitamin C to boost their immune system.

Face masks help limit exposure to fine dust, vehicle fumes, and other respiratory irritants.

Getting enough sleep and avoiding prolonged stress helps the immune system function more effectively, thereby reducing the risk of respiratory infections.

In summary: Although sore throat is a common ailment, it should not be taken lightly. The important thing is to correctly identify the cause of the illness in order to receive appropriate treatment.

Never self-medicate or misuse antibiotics without a doctor's prescription. Early diagnosis not only ensures effective treatment but also prevents many dangerous complications.

When abnormal symptoms appear in the ear, nose, and throat area, patients should go to a medical facility for timely examination and treatment advice, avoiding prolonged illness that affects their health and quality of life.

Source: https://suckhoedoisong.vn/hau-qua-khi-khong-chua-viem-hong-dung-cach-169260516080217241.htm