Freshly returning to work with New Year’s resolve,
Yet struck down by another viral onslaught.
The familiar cycle resumes:
Relentless coughing, throat pain, hoarseness—
The classic "razor-blade throat" trilogy.
But danger often lurks in this "familiarity"...
01 The Suffering Throat
Throat discomfort is often the first sign of flu progression and the last to fade.
As the immune system’s first line of defense, the throat plays a vital role in fighting pathogens. When infected, it reacts with redness, swelling, heat, and pain—signaling the battle’s start.
As the flu wanes, the throat becomes a "cleanup crew," clearing residual mucus via coughing. Though irritating, this is the body’s self-protective mechanism.
02 The Acute Trio of Throat Disorders
1. The Throat’s "Fire": Acute Pharyngitis
Acute pharyngitis involves inflammation of the pharyngeal mucosa, submucosa, and lymphoid tissue. Triggered by viruses or bacteria, it peaks during seasonal transitions (autumn-winter, winter-spring).
Symptoms: Dryness, burning, roughness, followed by severe pain (worse when swallowing), difficulty swallowing, and possible ear pain. Systemic signs include swollen lymph nodes, fever, chills, and appetite loss.
2. The Tonsils’ "Protest": Acute Tonsillitis
Acute tonsillitis is non-specific inflammation of the palatine tonsils, often following upper respiratory infections. It worsens with temperature shifts.
Symptoms: Sore throat, difficulty swallowing, chills, high fever, and headache. Severe tonsil swelling may obstruct breathing.
3. The Throat’s "Emergency Alarm": Acute Epiglottitis
Mr. Wang sought care for a "cold," only to collapse from sudden breathing difficulties. After cardiac arrest and resuscitation, he was diagnosed with acute epiglottitis.
What is the epiglottis?
A leaf-shaped cartilage at the tongue base, it prevents food/liquid from entering the trachea. Acute epiglottitis involves rapid swelling of the epiglottis and surrounding tissues, blocking the airway.
Symptoms: Severe throat pain, difficulty swallowing/breathing, stridor, and cyanosis. Without prompt treatment, it can cause suffocation or death within hours.
Q: Can I Self-Treat This Life-Threatening Condition?
No. If throat pain worsens with fever or breathing difficulty, seek emergency care immediately. Delaying for self-medication risks fatal outcomes.
Facing recurrent "razor-blade throat," never dismiss familiar symptoms.
Persistent or worsening signs demand medical evaluation to uncover hidden threats.
Act early, treat precisely, and protect your throat!
