When mucositis occurs in the pharyngeal area it is very likely that laryngitis and tracheitis will occur at the same time.
Table of contents:
- Causes of tracheitis of the trachea, larynx and pharynx
- Treatment
- In whom does it most commonly occur?
Causes of tracheitis, laryngitis and pharyngitis
The cause is anatomical - the mucous membrane covering the pharynx, larynx and trachea is continuous, which accelerates the spread of inflammation. Therefore, when we examine or treat the pharynx, larynx or trachea, we should do so within the entire upper respiratory tract.
Mucositis is caused by adeno- and enteroviruses, usually followed by bacterial infection.
The main complaints are :
- a sharp burning sensation in the throat,
- sore throat (especially during swallowing).
When laryngitis also affects the larynx and trachea, we can observe a strong and dry cough, voice disorders (hoarseness, voicelessness), a watery nose, tearing and congestion of the conjunctiva. The throat turns red and the membrane becomes dry and rough. The lymph nodules as well as the tonsils are significantly enlarged. With more severe inflammation, a bacterial infection occurs, the body temperature rises and the patient's condition worsens.
Treatment
Treatment is symptomatic. Mainly vitamins and mouthwashes with anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects are used. Infections can be a trigger for allergic mechanisms, so allergy medication is recommended. The mucous membrane should not be allowed to dry out and sodium inhalations and medicines that stimulate mucus secretion should be used.
Cold or pharyngitis in a child, photo: panthermedia
In whom is it most common?
Laryngitis is mostly seen in children. It is caused by a viral infection, later on by a bacterial infection. The main complaints are severe cough, hoarseness and breathlessness. Anti-inflammatory medications are given for this disease, mucus production is increased and humidifying inhalations are used. Antibiotics must also be taken. If the discomfort persists and shortness of breath increases, hospitalisation and specialist treatment is required, with a tracheotomy as a last resort.
Chronic inflammation of the mucous membranes of the pharynx, larynx and trachea causes permanent changes that lead to the development of chronic inf lammation:
- simple inflammation,
- chronic hypertrophic,
- chronic atrophic.
Factors favouring these inflammations are:
- chemical fumes,
- congestion in the throat,
- infections of the respiratory tract.
