Ask a doctor on the topic of Otorhinolaryngology

Chronic Pharyngitis?

July 24, 2013 | 15,00 EUR | answered by Christian Welsch

For several months now, my throat has been red and inflamed. Somehow I never quite got rid of the sore throat since the winter. The cold disappeared, but the throat remained irritated and the lymph nodes swollen. In its current state, it doesn't cause much trouble, but the accompanying picture does look quite alarming. I don't smoke, but I do drink a lot of alcohol on weekends. I am still a student.

One could probably at least speak of chronic pharyngitis, right? Fungal infection? I hope some experts could try to interpret the picture a bit.

I will of course see an ENT doctor soon (I should have done so already), but it can be a bit difficult here abroad and I wanted to wait until I am back in Germany.

Christian Welsch

Dear questioner, this looks like a case of pharyngitis, usually caused by viruses, but irritation from excessive alcohol is also possible. It doesn't seem to be a fungal infection. Get a gargle solution (e.g. Tantum Verde or Mallebrin). If you have severe sore throat and fever, you should see a doctor. Do you have any questions? Regards, C. Welsch.