Oropharynx spontaneously occurs inflammatory. Inflammatory diseases of the oropharynx. Modern concepts of etiopathogenesis and adequate treatment. The main types of fungal pathologies of the oral cavity

The oropharynx connects the pharynx (from the soft palate) and the larynx. At this site, the respiratory and digestive tracts intersect. It is the soft palate that separates the oropharynx from the nasopharynx.

A malignant neoplasm characterized by a high growth rate is oropharyngeal cancer. The aggressiveness of the tumor is confirmed by histological analysis and clinical features in the form of rapid metastasis to regional lymph nodes and distant organs.

Oncoprocess, in most cases, is registered after the age of 40 years. Basically, the neoplasm is located on the palatine tonsils (73%), but there is a lesion of the posterior pharyngeal wall (16%) and soft palate (11%). Due to the hidden initial period, often, the disease is diagnosed at stages 3-4, and in half of the cases they are detected.

Causes of Oropharyngeal Cancer

The occurrence of a malignant focus in the oropharynx can be a primary process or secondary, as a result of malignancy of a benign formation. Cell malignancy can be observed due to exposure to provoking factors, for example:

• smoking, chewing tobacco;
• alcohol abuse;
• poor-quality, inconveniently installed dentures.

In addition, it is worth noting the conditions and background pathology, which increases the risk of tissue degeneration into malignant ones:

• inflammatory processes (sinusitis, tonsillitis, pharyngitis);
• leukoplakia, erythroplakia of the pharynx;
• immunodeficiency.

Symptoms

The initial period (1-3 months) does not have any noticeable symptoms. The tumor increases with time, begins to feel like a foreign body, pain occurs when swallowing and choking.

Depending on the location of oncology, a nasal voice worries, liquid food is thrown into the nasopharynx and appetite decreases. When the surface of the tumor is injured by a food lump, an admixture of blood is noted in the saliva.

The tumor can grow into the lumen of the oropharynx or deep into the tissues.

Signs of oropharyngeal cancer by stage

The staging of malignant diseases (TNM) is based on criteria such as (T), involvement of surrounding lymph nodes (N), and the presence of distant metastases (M). According to this division, the volume of surgical intervention and the rationality of prescribing courses of radiation and chemotherapy are determined.

At the first stage oropharyngeal cancer may not appear at all, since the focus is small, there is no damage to the lymph nodes and other organs.

At the second stage a person may feel a sore throat, as if something is “itching” on the back of the pharyngeal wall or in the soft palate. Lymph nodes may be enlarged or malignant on one side.

As for the third stage, a person is concerned about the sensation of a lump in the throat, difficulty swallowing, choking, nasal voice and pain. In addition, there is cancer of the regional lymph nodes on both sides. They increase, become painful when palpated and soldered to the surrounding tissues.

Prognosis and survival

At stages 1-2, the prognosis is relatively favorable and the survival rate of patients reaches 70-95% (depending on age and the presence of concomitant diseases). If oropharyngeal cancer diagnosed at stages 3-4, survival ranges from 20% to 60% when taking into account the combination treatment.

Inflammation of the pharynx or pharyngitis, a disease that in itself does not pose a great danger and disappears after a few rinses. However, its consequences can be dire. Left untreated or not fully treated, it can cause inflammation of the kidneys, rheumatism and lead to heart disease.

A feeling of sore throat, itching that makes you want to clear your throat, and all this against the background of an absolutely normal body temperature. This feeling is familiar to many people. After a couple of days, they turn into a severe sore throat with a slight increase in temperature. Patients rarely go to the doctor with such symptoms and prefer to be treated themselves.

Inflammation of the mucous membrane and lymphoid tissue of the pharynx, which appears as a result of the influence of aggressive external and internal factors on them, is called pharyngitis. The disease can occur in acute and chronic form. Depending on the location of the focus of the disease, there is nasopharyngitis, when the nasal mucosa of the nasopharynx is affected, and mesopharyngitis, if the membrane of the oral part of the pharynx is inflamed. The second type of disease is the most common.

Almost the entire population of the globe has been ill with this disease. There are few who would not imagine the unpleasant sensations caused by it. No one can be insured against pharyngitis, since it can develop equally from eating cold food and from drinking a glass of too hot tea. The disease can even be caused by cigarette smoke, which is inhaled while being in the same room with a smoker.

There are many diseases of the larynx that are confused with pharyngitis:

• scleroma;
• laryngospasm;
• pharyngomycosis;
• edema, stenosis of the larynx;
• angina or tonsillitis;
• laryngitis.

Many of them are dangerous to humans, can be fatal if not treated in a timely manner.

Causes of the disease

The throat is the most vulnerable part of the human body. Therefore, the inflammatory process can occur due to many reasons. In the autumn-spring period and in winter, cold air that enters the larynx directly, and not through the nose, can become the cause of the disease. With a viral infection, the pharynx will be irritated by bacteria that have entered the body and secretions from the paranasal sinuses flowing down it.

Weakened by any diseases, the body is easily infected with various types of microbes (staphylococci, streptococci, pneumococci), viruses, fungi. This group also includes people who abuse alcohol and smoke.

If there is a focus of infection in the oral cavity, then this can also provoke inflammation of the posterior wall of the nasopharynx. To do this, not fully treated dental caries or stomatitis is enough.

For people working in the service sector and, by virtue of their profession, having contact with chemicals every day, this is what can cause the disease. Air pollution has a great influence on the occurrence of pharyngitis. This is the reason that urban residents complain of throat diseases more often than people living in rural areas.

Types of disease

First of all, it is necessary to determine what type of pharyngitis worries: chronic, allergic or acute. Each of them has its own sources and provoking factors, which means that the subsequent treatment should be different.

The acute form is excited by staphylococci and streptococci, and therefore often accompanies adenovirus and influenza. In addition, adverse factors can activate the disease:

The allergic form is often found in workers of large enterprises and among citizens. It can be triggered by polluted air and industrial emissions. Appearing dryness, perspiration are caused by swelling of the posterior pharyngeal wall.

The chronic form can develop as a result of acute or untreated pharyngitis, appear in the elderly or senile age, act as a consequence of serious diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, cardiovascular and urinary systems.

Chronic form

There are several types of chronic pharyngitis:

• atrophic;
• hypertrophic;
• catarrhal;
• combined form.

Atrophic pharynitis is combined with degradation of the mucous membrane lining the nasal cavity. As a result of this atrophy, microbes freely enter the human body and primarily in the throat. The cause of this form may be the defeat of the throat fungus due to prolonged use of antibiotics.

The hypertrophic form is accompanied by nausea and vomiting due to mucus accumulating in a large volume. It also causes a desire to constantly expectorate and cough. In addition to mucus, pus periodically accumulates in the throat, due to which the smell from the mouth worsens.

Catarrhal pharyngitis causes a sensation of a "lump" in the throat. The disease is accompanied by mild pain when swallowing with moderate tingling and intermittent cough resulting from perspiration.

The mixed form is characterized by the fact that one of the forms of chronic pharyngitis or several can be added to the sore throat and cough. Before treating a chronic disease, it is necessary to identify and eliminate all the factors that cause it. Otherwise, the therapeutic measures taken will not only not give a positive result, but will also cause irreparable damage to the health of the patient.

Symptoms of the disease

Irritation of the pharyngeal mucosa at the beginning of the disease has no characteristic symptoms and is similar to all other diseases of the throat. Only a doctor can make an accurate diagnosis, on the basis of which treatment will be prescribed, after a personal examination of the patient and passing tests.

Signs characteristic of acute and chronic pharyngitis at the initial stage of the disease:

• pain;
• sore throat;
• general condition is normal;
• the temperature does not rise.

If the disease is caused by viruses, then it is necessary for 2-3 days:

• runny nose appears;
• there is a dry, sharp cough;
• voice hoarse, becomes hoarse;
• coughing up light sputum;
• the temperature rises to 38°C and above.

A bacterial infection will cause several other symptoms:

• enlarged lymph nodes;
• the voice is hoarse or disappears;
• sharp "barking" cough to the point of nausea;
• body temperature ranges from 37°C to 38°C.

The chronic form causes approximately the same condition in patients. The difference lies in the color of the outgoing sputum and its quantity.

This form is characterized by:

This form is also characterized by soreness when eating salty, spicy foods, a feeling of a lump in the throat.

Treatment of the disease

Self-medication is undesirable. How long it takes for treatment depends only on the form of the disease. This also affects the duration of the course of the disease.

The acute form lasts from 4 days to 2 weeks. For treatment:

• throat spraying with medicines;
• solutions with alkaline content are sprayed;
• alcohol intake and smoking are excluded;
• spicy and salty foods are limited;
• drugs are prescribed to fight bacteria;
• temperature-lowering agents.

In the chronic form of the disease, the focus of inflammation in the body, which caused the exacerbation of the disease, is primarily blocked. For this:

• crusts and mucus are removed, for this they do inhalations, sprays;
• treat the pharynx with solutions that reduce its swelling;
• carry out treatment with ultrasonic phoresis;
• antiseptic and anti-inflammatory drugs are prescribed.

Only after that a course of treatment is carried out, which can last about a year.

Inflammation of the larynx is a pathological process that occurs as a result of the spread of a fungal, bacterial or viral infection.

The disease, which is also called laryngitis, can occur in isolation, and also be one of the manifestations of respiratory damage.

What is a larynx?

The most important are the arytenoid cartilages that regulate the position of the vocal cords. The organ performs respiratory, protective and voice-forming functions. It regulates the supply of oxygen by warming the incoming air before it enters the lungs.

The main function of the larynx is to protect against the ingress of foreign objects. The epiglottic cartilage prevents foreign bodies from entering the lungs.

Inflammation of the cartilage of the larynx can be triggered by:

• bacterial infections (staphylococcus, streptococcus, measles);
• various viruses;
• fungi (against the background of the affected immunity);
• allergens (room dust, flower pollen, animal hair, some products).

The disease can be caused by eating too cold food, prolonged exposure to cold, smoking, improper structure of the nasal septum, ingress of a foreign body, work in hazardous industries.

Types of inflammation of the larynx

Diseases of the pharynx and larynx can take an acute and chronic form. Let's consider them in more detail.

Acute laryngitis

Acute diseases of the larynx accompanies such diseases as influenza, scarlet fever, diphtheria, Staphylococcus aureus. The disease often develops in people who have reduced immunity as a result of previous illnesses or as a result of long-term use of antibiotics.

The acute form is often found in preschool children. This is due to the peculiarities of the structure of the respiratory organs and larynx in a child (not wide enough gap), not formed immunity, a higher tendency than in adults to allergic reactions. The development of the disease in children is often preceded by influenza or SARS.

In children 2-6 years old, a rather rare disease occurs - inflammation of the epiglottis. The disease is characterized by rapid development: the child has shortness of breath. obstructing free breathing, severe sore throat, chills, salivation, slurred speech.

Inflammation of the back wall of the larynx (pharyngitis) is usually caused by viral diseases. Patients experience pain, a feeling of itching and "scratching" in the throat. Treatment with antibiotics in this case is not justified.

Chronic laryngitis

In most cases, the chronic form of the disease Among other provoking factors, one should single out prolonged exposure to unfavorable conditions (work in dusty or gassed rooms), alcohol and smoking abuse, increased stress on the vocal cords associated with professional activities.

A fungal infection of the throat can cause candidiasis, which is also called "thrush". The disease is characterized by the appearance of curdled plaque on the tongue, dryness and irritation in the mouth, redness and swelling of the mucous membranes.
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How to determine the presence of inflammation in the larynx by the main symptoms?

Symptoms of the disease manifest themselves depending on the cause that provoked the pathology. Adults and children develop cough, pain and burning sensation in the throat.

Other symptoms include:

• hoarseness and change in the timbre of the voice;
• dry mouth;
• increased salivation;
• severe pain when swallowing food;
• red larynx;
• accumulation of mucous secretions in the throat;
• increase in body temperature;
• general weakness and malaise.

Chronic laryngitis is characterized by severe wheezing and the complete disappearance of the voice, a strong cough when trying to get rid of accumulated mucus, enlarged lymph nodes, and swelling of the mucous membranes.

In the absence of proper treatment, the mucus can change its color from clear to yellowish. Over time, the appearance of purulent discharge is noted, the patient's throat muscles hurt.

In some forms of laryngitis, such as those caused by the herpes virus, patients notice the appearance of blisters on the back of the throat. With the progression of the disease, they are able to spread to the epiglottis and the surface of the tongue. When opened, the vesicles leave behind painful sores covered with plaque.

In children, laryngitis manifests itself with the appearance of a barking cough, wheezing, difficulty breathing, worsening sleep, irritability and increased nervous excitement. The child's condition usually worsens at night when he is in the supine position.

When should you see a doctor? What is needed?

With a mild form of inflammation, it can be dealt with at home. But, if the symptoms of the disease do not go away within two weeks after their appearance, you must definitely seek medical help. The treatment of larynx disease is carried out. In children, this disease is treated by a pediatrician.

Medical assistance is required immediately if the patient has severe difficulty breathing, bloody discharge is observed in the separated mucus, and body temperature is significantly increased.

What diagnostics will be needed?

Before treating the larynx, it is necessary to establish the cause that caused the pain and inflammation. This will require modern diagnostic methods. First of all, pay attention to the patient's complaints and general examination data. At the next stage of diagnosis, a general blood test and laryngoscopy are prescribed.

Laryngoscopy allows you to determine the condition of the larynx and vocal cords, to identify foci of inflammation and swelling. At the stage of diagnosis, it is important to exclude other diseases with similar symptoms, such as tracheitis, diphtheria, allergic lesions, as they require different treatment.

It is possible to prescribe video laryngoscopy, during which it is possible to determine the vibration of the vocal cords.

In order to check the body for the presence of a malignant tumor, tissue is taken for a biopsy.

Treatment: how to relieve inflammation?

The treatment process of inflammation of the larynx is complex and includes drug therapy, physiotherapy and special exercises for the larynx. The goal of treatment is to eliminate the symptoms of the disease and prevent the formation of laryngospasm.

Treatment of the syndrome of inflammation of the larynx with laryngitis includes:

• carrying out inhalations;
• drug therapy to relieve pain and relieve inflammation in the throat (sprays, solutions, tablets);
• antibiotics for bacterial origin of the disease;

• topical medications to eliminate pain and perspiration;
• antipyretics;
• vitamins and drugs to improve immunity.

The selection of all pharmaceuticals should be carried out exclusively by the attending otolaryngologist, taking into account the type of laryngitis and the patient's condition. Incorrect treatment can cause complications or allergic reactions (anaphylactic shock, angioedema, and others).

Inhalation treatment

Inhalation is one of the most effective methods of treating inflammation of the larynx. For its implementation are used:

• decoctions and infusions of medicinal plants (chamomile, calamus, sage, eucalyptus leaves);
• aroma oils;
• and softening of sputum;
• mineral waters (Borjomi, Essentuki);
• antiseptics (Furacilin,).

Carrying out inhalations allows you to remove swelling and eliminate soreness in the throat, moisturize the mucous membranes and remove sputum residues from the body. For treatment, both steam and nebulizer inhalations are prescribed, which have an expectorant, anti-inflammatory and antibacterial effect.

Proper procedure is of great importance. The duration of inhalation should not exceed 10-15 minutes. It is recommended to carry out 1-2 procedures in the morning and evening, not earlier than half an hour after a meal. During the procedure and immediately after it is not recommended to talk.

Steam inhalation is contraindicated if the patient is prone to nosebleeds, at high body temperature, the presence of purulent secretions, and attacks of bronchial asthma.

Antibiotics in treatment

This group of drugs is prescribed only in cases where laryngitis is caused by a bacterial infection. A good result is obtained by treatment with drugs Amoxicillin, Cefuroxime, Metronidazole. The duration of treatment is 7-10 days, in the absence of positive dynamics, the drug should be replaced.

Long-term treatment with antibiotics should necessarily include the use of antifungal drugs to avoid throat candidiasis.

Treatment of allergic laryngitis involves the exclusion of the allergen from the patient's life. In most cases, limiting the patient's contact with the allergen leads to a rapid recovery of the patient.

Antiseptics in treatment

Various aerosols and sprays are used to treat the throat. Effective drugs include Ingalipt, Tantum Verde, Geksoral, Lugol. When using these drugs, contraindications should be considered. So, for example, Lugol is not recommended for children under five years of age and patients with an allergy to iodine.

For gargling with infectious laryngitis, antiseptic solutions Miramistin, Furacilin are used. Ready-made alcohol tinctures of medicinal herbs, which can be purchased at a pharmacy, are also effective.

Physiotherapy

Among the effective physiotherapeutic agents, it is worth highlighting:

• magnetotherapy;
• electrophoresis with hydrocortisone;
• UHF therapy;
• laser exposure.

The listed physiotherapy procedures are additional methods of treatment and should not replace the main therapy.

Patients with chronic inflammation of the larynx are shown sanatorium treatment in places with a humid and warm climate. These include the resorts of Crimea, Sochi, Anapa.

How to treat at home?

Inflammation of the larynx is successfully treated at home, subject to the following general rules:

• minimize conversations, and even better remain silent, this will contribute to the rapid recovery and healing of mucous membranes;
• maintain a favorable indoor climate (regular ventilation, keeping the air humidity level at least 50-60%, maintaining the room temperature at 20-24 C);
• drinking 2-3 liters of liquid per day (herbal teas, fruit drinks, warm milk with mineral waters);

• the exclusion of hot, spicy, cold and salty foods, alcoholic beverages, coffee, chocolate, the inclusion in the menu of liquid cereals, soups with vegetable broths, dairy products, non-acidic fruits;
• taking hot foot baths.

The throat area must be kept warm. To do this, it is wrapped with a scarf or scarf made of natural fabric. Warming compresses or mustard plasters are applied to the calf and chest area.

It is worth noting

One of the most effective home remedies is rinsing. For medicinal decoctions, decoctions of chamomile, calendula, sage, plantain, oak bark are used.

To relieve inflammation and swelling at home, use a soda solution. To prepare it, stir a tablespoon of soda in a glass of warm water. It is necessary to gargle for 5-7 days several times a day.

Voice restoration

• a milk-egg mixture made from a glass of milk and one egg yolk, which is drunk or gargled with it;
• infusion of viburnum berries with the addition of honey for taking before meals;
• a mixture of finely chopped aloe leaf and honey, taken in equal proportions, must be kept in the mouth until it is completely dissolved;
• mix a tablespoon of honey with 30 ml of cognac and add one yolk to the mixture, with this tool you can return the lost voice in an extremely short time.

Prevention of the disease includes hardening procedures, following the rules of a healthy diet, giving up bad habits, walking in the fresh air, especially near water bodies. Infectious and viral diseases should be detected and treated in time, preventing their complications.

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Diseases of the throat and larynx are heterogeneous groups of pathologies that they develop for a variety of reasons, but are united by a common localization.

All diseases can be subdivided as follows:

• Pathologies of an infectious profile. They are usually caused by bacteria or viruses.
• Fungal pathologies. They are relatively rare, but such situations do occur.
• Benign neoplastic processes in the pharynx and larynx.
• Malignant tumors in the structures of the upper respiratory tract.
• Other conditions and pathological processes in the pharynx.

Below we consider each of these groups in more detail.

They are also heterogeneous in composition, but there is one point that absolutely all infectious diseases of the throat have in common - these are the reasons for their development.

According to research, all disease-causing processes within the pharynx develop for three groups of reasons. The first group of factors concerns the penetration of dangerous microorganisms and viruses into the body.

Among them:

Staphylococci. Cause severe lesions of the pharynx. Usually pyogenic (pyogenic) type. Provoke massive exudation and complex symptoms, difficult to treat. The most dangerous type of microorganism is.

Streptococci. Especially alpha and beta hemolytic. They cause blood problems, as well as suppuration of the throat and upper respiratory tract. Read more about the diseases they can cause.

Atypical microorganisms, such as chlamydia, gonococci, ureaplasmas, mycoplasmas, Trichomonas and others. They provoke difficult to cure, but sluggish forms of infectious diseases of the pharynx.

herpes viruses. Especially strains of the fourth and fifth types (Epstein-Barr virus and cytomegalovirus). Diseases caused by this kind of viral agents are extremely difficult to cure. You can only transfer the disease to a latent phase.

Human papillomaviruses. In total there are more than 500 types. Many are oncogenic. These are serious opponents that promote the formation of cancer cells.

How do they enter the body?

First of all, airborne. With particles of mucus, saliva when coughing, sneezing and even just breathing.

To become a carrier of a virus or bacteria yourself, it is enough to be near an infected person for some time. Since almost everyone (98% or more) is infected, the probability of "getting" the agent is extremely high.

• Household or contact way. In contact with dirty household items, non-sexual interaction with infected people (handshakes, kisses).
• Sexual way of transportation. Namely oral-genital. Many dangerous bacteria live on the genitals. Unprotected sexual contact can be dangerous. It is recommended to be protected.
• perinatal route. The child can face the harsh conditions of the outside world even in the womb, because viruses and bacteria easily overcome the placental barrier.
• transmission path. With insect bites.
• Blood transfusion.
• Passage through the birth canal of the mother.
• The infection can enter the throat and pharynx by descending (from the nasopharynx) or ascending (from the lower respiratory structures) routes.
• In the body itself, disease-causing agents are carried with the bloodstream or lymphatic fluid.

However, becoming a carrier of uninvited "guests" is not enough, and does not mean at all that a person will get sick.

The next significant factor that increases the likelihood of developing pathologies is a decrease in immunity.

What are the reasons for the security system to fail?

• Abuse of alcoholic beverages.
• Smoking. Women who smoke are especially at risk, as their body tolerates the harmful substances contained in cigarettes worse.
• The use of antibiotics without sufficient grounds for this.
• Improper feeding of the child (early weaning, late attachment to the mammary glands, transfer to a dry mixture).

And other factors, which are more than twenty. The third group of reasons are trigger factors. They vary from disease to disease, so you need to consider each pathology separately.

Angina

It is an inflammation of the oropharynx and, in particular, the palatine tonsils. Another name for angina is tonsillitis. Under this name, the disease is better known.

The reasons for the development of angina, in addition to those already mentioned, are:

• Traumatic lesion of the pharynx. For example, during diagnostic or therapeutic procedures.
• Consumption of contaminated food. Affects the alimentary factor.
• Symptoms of the disease are quite specific:
• Pain in the throat when swallowing, breathing, eating. Increased when trying to speak.
• The formation of purulent plugs. These are small yellowish lumps localized in the gaps and coming out when squeezed out with the tongue.
• Purulent exudation. Isolation of a large amount of pus from the lacunae due to infection.
• Formation of a whitish coating in the throat and on the soft palate.
• Throat hyperemia. It is determined even with an independent examination of the pharynx. In other words, redness of the throat.
• Loose structure of soft tissues on examination.
• Increase in body temperature.

Treatment is required immediately. Angina tends to give complications to the heart, kidneys and lungs. It is necessary to use specialized drugs: non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, antibiotics, analgesics, local antiseptics and antipyretics with general symptoms.

Pharyngitis

Inflammatory lesion of the oropharynx. The disease is very widespread. Trigger factors are specific:

• Hypothermia. Especially dangerous is the use of cold water in the hot season, the inhalation of frosty air.
• Prolonged use of vasoconstrictor drops.
• Chronic diseases of the upper respiratory tract. Sinusitis of various types (sinusitis and others) are especially dangerous.
• Thermal, chemical damage to the pharynx. Burns of various etiologies.

Symptoms include:

• Intense pain syndrome of a burning, stabbing character. Localized in the pharynx and in the soft palate. With a long course of pathology, a diffuse character of discomfort is possible. The unpleasant sensation increases when talking, eating, drinking, breathing.
• Bad breath. Caused by the vital activity of pathogenic microorganisms.
• Changing the nature of the voice. The inability to speak normally develops (hoarseness, weakness, nasal voice), complete loss of the ability to speak.
• Increase in body temperature.
• Headache and symptoms of general intoxication.
• Cough with a small amount of sputum.
• Sore throat.

The treatment is specific. As in the case of angina, medications of the following groups are prescribed:

• Anti-inflammatory non-steroidal origin.
• Steroid drugs (glucocorticoid drugs).
• Broad spectrum antiseptics.
• Antibacterial drugs (only after a study of the sensitivity of the flora to drugs).

Lack of therapy leads to a chronic process and many complications.

Laryngitis

Laryngitis is an inflammation of the mucous membranes of the larynx. The disease develops relatively often - the prevalence of the pathological process is approximately 8% of clinical cases (statistics are kept according to the recorded situations).

Reasons for the development of the disease:

• Traumatic lesions of the larynx. Most often as a result of diagnostic measures for other probable diseases. So, laryngoscopy is especially dangerous.
• Inhalation of pathogenic substances. Gary, dust, pollen (in this case they speak of an allergic form of laryngitis).
• Mechanical damage to the larynx. For example, as a result of damage to the delicate mucous membrane of a fish bone, stale bread with accidental inhalation of crumbs, etc.

Otherwise, the reasons are identical.

Characteristic manifestations:

• Pain in the pharynx and neck. It is impossible to determine the exact localization of uncomfortable sensations. Feelings are diffuse, which makes it difficult to formulate complaints.
• Cough. The calling card of laryngitis is an intense barking reflex. It is not removed by classical preparations. Sputum is not allocated, which is typical for this disease.

In the treatment, antitussive drugs of general action (to inhibit the reflex at the central level), antitussive drugs of peripheral action, anti-inflammatory non-steroidal origin are used. Glucocorticoid medications may also be needed.

Thinners and mucolytics are not required. They are useless and even dangerous in this case.

Scleroma

It is a disease of mixed genesis (immune and at the same time infectious). It is characterized by spontaneous growth of the walls of the larynx and the formation of special nodular inclusions, granulomas.

Contrary to what you may think, these are not neoplasms. Granulomas are considered the result of proliferation, but not of a tumor nature. Because scleroma is classified as an infection.

The reasons for the development of the disease are multiple. The most common are:

• Damage to the walls of the larynx of a mechanical nature. Usually as a result of diagnostic or therapeutic measures. As already mentioned, laryngoscopy is the most traumatic.
• Chemical, thermal damage of a long nature. The longer pathological factors affect the pharynx, the higher the likelihood of developing the disease.
• Prolonged infections. Affect the manifestation of scleroma.

Symptoms:

• Respiratory disorders (shortness of breath, and later suffocation).
• Changing the voice of a different type (may become higher or lower).
• Sore throat, other discomfort in the pharynx.
• Nasal congestion, nasal breathing disorders.

Treatment is conservative, in most cases, with the use of anti-inflammatory drugs. If the airway is obstructed, surgery is required.

Fungal diseases (pharyngomycosis)

Diseases of the throat and larynx are not limited to viral and bacterial lesions. Fungal infestations are possible. The most common is the so-called pharyngomycosis.

At its core, it is the same pharyngitis, however, fungal properties. According to studies, in almost 100% of clinical cases, the culprit is fungus of the genus Candida.

The main causes of the development of the disease are diabetes mellitus and other endocrine pathologies. Cause a general and local decrease in immunity.

Less commonly, predisposing factors are injuries of the throat and pharynx in general. For example, when exposed to anatomical structures of hot steam, excessively dry air, chemical reagents. Mechanical damage is also possible, which open the way for fungal agents.

Symptoms of pharyngomycosis:

• Intense sore throat. She is stinging and cutting. Increases at night, when eating, drinking liquids.
• Bad, sour smell from the mouth.
• Formation of white cheesy plaque in the pharynx.
• Redness of the pharynx and the entire soft palate.
• Clogging cough and sore throat.

Treatment requires special attention. The following groups of drugs are used:

• Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
• Broad-spectrum antifungals and antibiotics to prevent secondary infection.

benign tumors

Tumors of a benign nature, these are growing non-infiltrative neoplasms.

They do not tend to metastasize. However, due to the development of the mass effect, respiratory disorders and other unpleasant and life-threatening conditions are possible.

Adenoiditis

Strictly speaking, it is not a benign tumor. Adenoiditis is an inflammation of the adenoids: an overgrown palatine tonsil. Most of them have infectious causes.

In almost 100% of cases, it affects children under 10 years of age. In adults, the disease occurs as an exception. This is casuistry.

Symptoms of adenoiditis:

• Nasal breathing disorders. The patient cannot breathe normally due to overlapping of the choanae and vomer.
• The rise in body temperature to subfebrile-febrile marks.
• Symptoms of general intoxication of the body.

Treatment in most cases is surgical. It is required to remove the adenoids and thus the problem will be solved radically.

Other neoplasms

There are also the following list of benign tumors of the larynx and throat:

Fibroids. They are made up of fibrous tissue. They develop mainly in the vocal cords. They have an oval or spherical regular shape. Not prone to metastasis, grow extremely slowly. Lead to voice changes and breathing problems. In the case of large sizes, they pose a danger to life and health.

Lipomas. Also called wen. Develop from adipose tissue. They have a spherical shape. They may have legs. Formation occurs in the area of ​​​​the entrance to the larynx in most cases.

Polyps. A type of fibroma. Unlike the former, they are prone to malignant degeneration. They should be removed anyway. This is an axiom.

Chondromas. Cartilaginous tumors of the larynx. Over time, they can transform into cancer (chondrosarcoma).

papillomas. They are warts. Caused by the human papillomavirus. Many strains are oncogenic, therefore, mandatory histological examination and PCR diagnostics are required.

cystic formations. Fluid structures surrounded by a fibrous capsule. Not prone to growth.

Angiomas. Vascular tumors. Difficult to remove. They are often congenital.

Important:

In all cases, the causes of tumor development lie in a violation of cell differentiation (the process of transformation of non-specialized embryonic cells into specialized cells of tissues and organs) and an increase in their proliferation (the process of cell reproduction).

Treatment is operative. However, you should not immediately rush to extremes.

The best option would be dynamic monitoring of the tumor. If it grows, it needs to be removed. It is also important to determine the histological structure of the neoplasm (benign or malignant). Only after that they make a decision on the tactics of therapy.

Malignant tumors

Cancer tumors of this localization are relatively rare. However, they are extremely dangerous. In a similar arrangement, carcinomas and sarcomas are isolated.

Carcinoma

It develops from epithelial tissues. Cell differentiation is practically absent, proliferation is maximum.

The reasons for the development of a tumor of an oncological profile are as follows:

• Tobacco abuse. The more a person smokes, the greater the risk of developing carcinoma. When using tobacco products for a pack a day or more, the likelihood of developing cancer increases by 70%. A person drives himself into harsh conditions.
• Excessive consumption of alcoholic products. Mucosal burns are formed. As a result, the risks increase exponentially.
• Professional hazards. Including dangerous work at chemical plants, in hot industries, etc.
• Drinking hot liquids on a regular basis.

Throat cancer symptoms are as follows:

• Headaches in the occiput.
• Pain in jaws radiating to teeth.
• Problems with vision and hearing.
• Frequent otitis of unknown origin.
• Voice disorders.
• Bad breath.

Treatment is exclusively surgical. In the later stages, radiation and chemotherapy will be required. The choice of treatment tactics is chosen only by the oncologist.

Sarcoma

Much more aggressive tumor. It develops for the same reasons. It is characterized by intense cellular atypia, high proliferation rate.

Symptoms are similar to carcinoma and include the following manifestations:

• Toothache.
• Pain in the jaw on the affected side.
• Voice problems. It becomes weak, hoarse or too low.
• Visual and hearing impairments.
• Frequent otitis.

Treatment, as in the previous case, is surgical. Excision of tissues is required, as radical as possible. This way you can avoid relapses.

Radiation and chemotherapy are prescribed based on the stage of the course of the pathological process.

Dangerous states

Acute stenosis of the larynx is manifested by a significant narrowing of the airways.

• Penetration into the respiratory tract of foreign objects.
• Infectious pathologies, such as measles, malaria, typhoid and other diseases.
• Carrying out medical manipulations of various kinds.
• Inflammatory processes of the respiratory organs.

Characteristic symptoms include: respiratory failure, acute asphyxia, sore throat. Surgical treatment consists in expanding the lumen of the larynx.

Laryngeal edema

In most cases, it develops as a result of an allergic reaction. The symptoms are identical. Asphyxia and death are possible. Specific treatment: urgent administration of antihistamines and artificial ventilation of the lungs (if the condition is severe) is necessary.

laryngospasm

The condition is generally identical to stenosis. Symptoms and treatments are similar. The essence of the pathological process is the development of spasm of the muscles of the larynx.

In all cases described, treatment should be carried out immediately. The patient's life is at stake. An ambulance call is required. You can't do anything on your own.

Problems of this kind are the most common. Diseases are similar in manifestations, therefore, mandatory differential diagnosis is required.

Treatment is selected based on the situation. Most of it is conservative. The main thing is to contact the treating specialist in time.

In contact with

Most often the reasondiseases of the oropharynxare various infections. Their most popular consequences are tonsillitis (more scientifically - acute tonsillitis, laryngitis and pharyngitis. The article contains doctors' recommendations on how not to harm yourself with these diseases, but rather help the body recover faster.

Angina causes inflammation of the tonsils. In addition to a sore throat, she is accompanied by aches all over her body, weakness and high temperature, from 38 degrees.

A person wakes up in the morning relatively vigorous, but by the evening he is usually "limp". The disease has many varieties: catarrhal (red throat), follicular (purulent follicles on the tonsils), lacunar (pus in the lacunae), aphthous (rashes on the tonsils in the form of white or pinkish ulcers), herpetic (rashes on the tonsils in the form of bubbles).

Laryngitis is an inflammation of the mucous membrane of the larynx. Symptoms - perspiration and redness, slightly elevated (about 37.5 ° C) temperature and - a distinctive feature - hoarse heavy breathing and a hoarse voice. The patient's condition is worse in the morning, immediately after waking up.

Pharyngitis is an inflammation of the mucous membrane of the pharynx. It is accompanied by redness, perspiration, the same as with laryngitis, a slightly elevated temperature, often with a dry, painful cough.

Treatment is prescribed by a doctor. Warm rinses and grandmother's recipes will not help. Untreated diseases can lead to all sorts of complications. But typical recommendations for diseases of the oropharynx are the same for everyone.

Inflammation of the oropharynx. Do's and Don'ts for Treatment

At inflammation of the oropharynx it is forbidden:
1. Tighten your throat.
That is, talk long and loudly. Communication should be kept to a minimum. Listen more. Shorten your answers. As the signalmen say, switch to the mode of receiving information.

2. There are salty, chocolate, spicy and even healthy citrus fruits. All these products irritate the oropharynx. You should also avoid solid foods: crackers, cookies. It is best to use cereals, light broths, baked vegetables.

3. Drink excessively hot drinks.
They will not warm the throat, but only additionally injure the mucous membrane.

4. At elevated temperatures, consume a lot of milk.
Protein dishes in such a situation can increase the intoxication of the body.

5. Gargle with water with soda and iodine.
This disinfectant solution will benefit only with purulent sore throat. In other cases, it will only irritate the mucous membrane of the throat.

6. Walk.
Inflammation of the oropharynx implies bed rest and, ideally, cessation of communication for 5 to 10 days.

7. Independently "prescribe" antibiotics.
8. Postpone calling your doctor if your sore throat is accompanied by a headache, high fever, vomiting, or rash.

With inflammation of the oropharynx, you can and should:
1. Relieve pain with local remedies - special lozenges or sprays.
2. Take complex vitamins to strengthen immunity.
3. Ventilate the room. This will help you fall asleep faster and sleep better at night.
4. Drink a warm drink with vitamin C and honey as often as possible (in the absence of an allergy to the latter).
It has a healing and disinfecting effect. It will be useful to include extracts of hawthorn and wild rose in the composition of such drinks.