Table of contents:
- Recognize the causes and symptoms of sore throat
- The link between laryngitis and the immune system
- Then, what can be done to prevent and help reduce sore throat?
Some people may think that sore throat is a common health problem and not a sign or feature of a serious health problem. In fact, this condition is a sign that a person's immune system or immune system is not working optimally or is weakening. For that, let's better understand laryngitis and its relationship to the immune system.
Recognize the causes and symptoms of sore throat
Sore throat or in medical terms called pharyngitis, is an inflammatory process that includes inflammation and / or infection of the mucous membrane (mucosa) and submucosa of the throat area (pharynx).
This inflammatory process can be caused by bacteria, viruses and fungi. In addition, sore throat can also be affected by several conditions such as:
- Have allergies,
- Stomach acid reflux,
- Post nasal drip (mucus or thick fluid from the nasal cavity that enters the throat),
- Dietary factors such as overly hot and spicy foods,
- Drink alcohol
- Environmental factors such as exposure to smoke pollution and smoking habits.
The symptoms of strep throat vary from mild to severe. These symptoms can include:
- Itchy,
- Dry throat,
- Painful swallowing that makes it difficult to swallow
- It can also be accompanied by fever.
The link between laryngitis and the immune system
Anatomically, the throat has a mucosal layer (mucous membrane) and lymphoid tissue in the Waldeyer ring area which has a fairly important immune function.
Immune cells in healthy mucous membranes and lymphoid tissue can prevent the entry of pathogens (microorganisms that can cause disease) that can cause inflammation. When there is damage to these protective linings and structures, which is generally caused by irritation due to food and environmental factors, it can lead to inflammation and infection to become more frequent.
Inflammation caused by minor irritation can resolve within a few days with proper dietary management, and avoiding risk factors from environmental exposure.
On the other hand, inflammation is caused by a bacterial infection such as Streptococcus B Hemoliticus can cause complications to the heart and kidneys. Complaints of pain and pain when swallowing can also lead to nutritional disturbances and can lead to weaker conditions and lower endurance.
Not to forget, throat health has also become very important in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic. According to the CDC (Control of Disesase and Prevention), sore throat is one of several symptoms of COVID-19, because viral load or the covid-19 virus is found in the throat area.
When you have strep throat, this could be a sign that your immune system is weakening. It is better if you immediately improve your nutritional intake to maintain cleanliness with the aim that the immune system returns to normal work and avoid exposure to the COVID-19 virus.
Then, what can be done to prevent and help reduce sore throat?
Generally, mild inflammation can be improved with symptomatic drugs such as pain medication and dietary management and avoiding various risk factors from the environment.
However, inflammation caused by pathogenic microorganisms is greatly influenced by the immune system and the incubation period; or the period from when the cause of the disease enters the body (at the time of infection) to the time the disease occurs.
As a measure to help relieve sore throat which is a sign of a weakened immune system, you can use lozenges with ingredients Double Active Agents (Amylmetacresol & Known) , as well as vitamin C. Use of lozenges which have a local pain relieving effect, antiseptic, menthol, and vitamin C can be given in acute inflammatory conditions with complaints of irritating sore throat and discomfort.
Apart from consuming lozenges, you should also control nutritious foods, drink enough, and reduce your exposure to environmental risk factors.
Prevention in general is to adopt a clean and healthy lifestyle, including:
- Wash your hands regularly with soap,
- Keeping the cutlery clean,
- Eat a healthy, balanced diet,
- Always take time to exercise,
- Avoiding bad lifestyles such as alcohol consumption, smoking, foods that are too spicy, and hot.
- Drink enough water, which is 2 liters per day
- Always keep the mouth area clean.
If the complaint of inflammation is accompanied by fever that does not subside in 2-3 days, it is better to see a doctor immediately to find out what caused it. The doctor will conduct an evaluation to find out whether the condition requires more specific therapy or not.
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