Sore Throat: Common Diagnoses

The following is a list of common diagnoses made by physicians after reviewing information that results from a patient’s medical history, a physical examination, throat cultures, blood tests and x-rays.

Tonsilitis and enlarged adenoids: Tonsillitis typically involves inflammation of the tonsils that are located on either side of the base of the tongue. Enlargement of the adenoids located above the soft palate in the mouth can also occur.

Pharyngitis: The pharynx, the area of our throat directly behind your mouth and soft palate, is a common area for food, liquids, and air. Swallowing safely delivers solids and liquids to the stomach. Pharyngitis is pain and inflammation of the pharynx.

Laryngitis: The larynx is the portion of your windpipe (trachea) that allows passage of air in and out of the lungs while preventing the entry of solids and liquids. Vocal cords in the larynx produce sound. Laryngitis is pain and inflammation of the larynx and is often associated with a hoarse voice. Croup is a form of laryngitis in children.

Epiglottitis: This is a rare type of sore throat that involves the inflammation of the epiglottis (a small semi tubular structure at the opening of the larynx separating it from the base of the tongue).

Polyps: Vocal cord polyps or nodules are non-cancerous growths that are caused primarily through chronic irritation such as abusing ones voice through extended periods of shouting. They can also be caused by cigarette smoke, industrial fumes or by reflux where stomach acids flow back into the throat. Polyps tend to be larger and protrude more than nodules.