From the Research
For viral pharyngitis, rest at home until fever-free for 24 hours and symptoms improve, and use ectoine lozenges for symptomatic relief, as they have been shown to be effective in reducing symptoms of acute viral pharyngitis 1. To manage symptoms, take acetaminophen (325-650mg every 4-6 hours, maximum 3000mg daily) or ibuprofen (400-600mg every 6-8 hours with food, maximum 3200mg daily) for pain and fever. Some key measures to help manage symptoms include:
- Gargling with warm salt water (1/2 teaspoon salt in 8oz warm water) several times daily
- Staying hydrated with plenty of fluids
- Using throat lozenges or sprays for temporary relief
- Humidifying your environment, especially while sleeping
- Avoiding smoking and secondhand smoke Most cases resolve within 7-10 days without antibiotics, as antibiotics are ineffective against viral infections. It is essential to return to medical care if symptoms worsen, persist beyond 10 days, you develop difficulty breathing or swallowing, severe pain, inability to drink fluids, or high fever (above 101°F) that doesn't respond to medication, as indicated by principles of appropriate antibiotic use for acute pharyngitis in adults 2. These measures help manage symptoms while your immune system fights the viral infection, and it is crucial to note that antibiotics should only be used in cases of bacterial pharyngitis, such as those caused by group A beta-hemolytic streptococcus, as diagnosed using the Centor criteria and rapid antigen testing 3, 2.