Brief Answer:
Acute viral pharyngitis

Detailed Answer:
Hi. Thank you for writing to HCM.

Bad sore throat with redness and blisters are quite commonly seen in viral pharyngitis as well. Since you are negative for strep it can be a viral infection such as infectious mononucleosis ( do get tested for mono as well) or common respiratory viruses.

In my opinion, you need symptomatic management with an anti-inflammatory medication ( paracetamol/ibuprofen and serratiopeptidase combination) along with a good antiseptic mouthwash (chlorhexidine/dilute betadine) for gargles three times daily before and after meals. Avoid spicy diet, smoking or alcohol consumption. Drink plenty of fluids (up to 2 litres/day). Visit your physician or ENT specialist if you develop fever or worsening of symptoms. You may expect recovery in 3-5 days.

Hope this information helps. Do let me know if you have any further questions.

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Brief Answer:
Diagnosis remains same

Detailed Answer:
Hi. Thank you for writing back and sharing the images.

It looks like there is some congestions (redness) with tiny blisters on the pharyngeal wall, uvula and right tonsillar pillars. This seems consistent with a viral tonsillopharyngitis.

My advice for management and ENT review remains the same as above.

Hope this helps. Will be happy to address any further questions.

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Brief Answer:
Medicines prescribed reviewed

Detailed Answer:
Hi. Thanks for sharing your prescription.

In my opinion if you just have sore throat which means pain during swallowing, throat pain and throat irritation, then the management as advised by me should be sufficient.

Mucinex is for cough and it is especially indicated for productive cough. You can take this if you have productive cough.

Prednisone is an oral steroid and is generally useful in allergic conditions. Since this reduces the immune response, it is known to worsen any existing infections. I would not recommend the use of steroids unless you have symptoms suggestive of allergy such as runny nose, sneezing, itching in the throat, constant post nasal drip. In your case since you have a bad sore throat, allergy seems unlikely.

Pyrilamine-phenylephrine is a decongestant and also causes a lot of sedation. This is indicated if you have symptoms of common cold such as nose block, stuffy nose, facial pains, headaches etc. I would recommend the use of these only if you have the symptoms of common cold.

Most viral infections are self limiting and they would subside on their own in 3-5 days. Unless you develop fever is when you may need an antibiotic. Fever also would confirm an infective pathology. I would therefore keep the management simple with anti-inflammatory medications and antiseptic gargles. I am unsure if you have the other symptoms for which these medications have been prescribed. You may use them at your discretion. I have provided the indications for those medications to you.

Hope this helps. Wishing for your better health.

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