Sore throat after covid
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Sore Throat After COVID-19: Prevalence, Symptoms, and Management
Prevalence of Sore Throat in COVID-19 Patients
Sore throat is a recognized symptom of COVID-19, although its prevalence varies. Initial studies indicated that sore throat was relatively rare, with early reports suggesting a prevalence of around 7% in North America and 29% in Asia 14. However, more recent data show an increase in the prevalence of sore throat to approximately 50% of patients, particularly with the emergence of new variants such as Alpha and Delta . This increase highlights the evolving nature of COVID-19 symptoms with different viral strains.
Clinical Characteristics and Associated Symptoms
Sore throat in COVID-19 patients often accompanies other symptoms such as fever, cough, fatigue, and muscle pain 37. In some cases, sore throat can be one of the early signs of the disease, appearing before more severe respiratory symptoms develop 47. Additionally, sore throat may be associated with other ENT manifestations like pharyngeal erythema, nasal congestion, and runny nose 57.
Oropharyngeal Involvement and Mucosal Lesions
COVID-19 can also affect the oral mucosa, leading to oropharyngeal involvement. A case report described a patient with severe sore throat, erythematous oropharynx, petechiae, and pustular enanthema, which resolved after antibiotic treatment . This suggests that mucosal lesions, although not commonly reported, can be a part of the clinical presentation of COVID-19.
Comparison with Other Viral Infections
When compared to other viral infections like influenza and the common cold, sore throat is less frequently reported in COVID-19. For instance, sore throat was observed in 12% of COVID-19 cases, compared to higher rates in influenza and common cold . This distinction can help in differential diagnosis, especially during the flu season when multiple respiratory viruses are circulating.
Management and Treatment
Management of sore throat in COVID-19 primarily involves supportive care. Patients with mild symptoms can often manage with self-care measures such as hydration, throat lozenges, and over-the-counter pain relievers . In cases where sore throat is severe or persistent, medical evaluation is necessary to rule out secondary infections or complications. Antibiotic therapy may be considered if bacterial superinfection is suspected, as seen in the case report .
Conclusion
Sore throat is a common but variable symptom of COVID-19, with its prevalence increasing with newer viral variants. It often presents alongside other respiratory and systemic symptoms and can sometimes involve significant oropharyngeal lesions. Understanding the prevalence and characteristics of sore throat in COVID-19 can aid in early diagnosis and appropriate management, especially during periods of high viral transmission.
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