Throat Infection Treatment in Gurgaon, India
What is a Throat Infection?
A throat infection is a common health issue that refers to inflammation in the throat, including areas like the pharynx, tonsils, or larynx.
It can be viral, bacterial, or fungal, and often presents with pain, difficulty swallowing, or coughing. Environmental irritants like smoking, smog, or allergens can also occasionally cause it.
The majority of throat infections are minor and resolve on their own, but some can worsen and cause symptoms like a high temperature, trouble swallowing, or a persistent cough, which may necessitate medical treatment.
Types of Throat Infection
Viral Throat Infections
These are the most prevalent kind of throat infections, particularly when there is a seasonal outbreak of the flu or cold. Viruses like rhinovirus, influenza, adenovirus, or coronavirus (particularly COVID-19) are typically the cause of them.
Typical symptoms include:
With rest, hydration, and supportive care, viral throat infections typically go away on their own in 5–7 days. Antibiotics are not effective in these cases.
Bacterial Throat Infections
In comparison with viral infections, these are less frequent and more severe. The most common kind is strep throat, which is brought on by the bacterium Group A Streptococcus. Other kinds could include bacterial infections of the sinuses or tonsillitis that spread to the throat.
The following are typical signs of a bacterial throat infection:
Antibiotics are typically needed to treat these illnesses in order to avoid side effects like kidney inflammation or rheumatic fever. Recurrent throat infections may result from untreated cases.
Fungal Throat Infections
Fungal throat infections are less common but can be dangerous; they usually affect people with compromised immune systems, those taking inhaled corticosteroids, or those receiving long-term antibiotic therapy. Candida is the most common cause of oral thrush, also known as a yeast infection in the throat, and symptoms include: White, creamy patches on the tonsils or throat; soreness or burning sensation; difficulty swallowing; and cracking at the corners of the mouth. To prevent recurrence, antifungal medications and lifestyle modifications are necessary.
Irritant-Induced Throat Infections
Not all throat infections are caused by germs. Some are triggered by non-infectious irritants such as:
Air pollution and smoke
Seasonal allergies
Dry air
Chemical fumes
Acid reflux (GERD)
These types of throat inflammation can mimic infection symptoms like hoarseness, cough, and scratchy throat, but they don’t involve microbes. Treatment focuses on avoiding the irritant and using soothing remedies or anti-reflux medications.
Signs and Symptoms of Throat Infection
Sore throat or scratchiness
This is often the first and most noticeable sign. You may feel pain, irritation, or a scratchy sensation, especially when swallowing or speaking. It can range from mild discomfort to severe pain depending on the type of throat infection.
This condition, also referred to as dysphagia, happens when inflammation in the throat makes swallowing difficult or painful. While eating or drinking, you may experience burning or the sensation that something is stuck.
Swollen tonsils are a common feature in both bacterial and viral throat infections. They may appear red and inflamed, often with visible swelling at the back of your throat.
Seen mainly in bacterial throat infections like strep throat or in fungal infections such as thrush. These patches may look like white spots or creamy layers on the tonsils or tongue.
Throat infections and fever often go hand-in-hand, especially if the cause is bacterial or viral. You might also feel chills, fatigue, and general body discomfort—signs your immune system is fighting off an infection.
What Causes Throat Infections?
Viral infections are the leading cause of throat infections, especially during seasonal changes and flu outbreaks. These infections are typically mild but highly contagious and can spread quickly through coughing, sneezing, or touching contaminated surfaces.
Viral Infections
Common viruses that cause viral throat infections include:
Possible Risk Factors for a Throat Infection
Weakened immunity
Seasonal flu exposure
Allergies or sinus infections
Poor oral hygiene
Smoking or pollution exposure
Shared utensils or close contact with infected individuals
How is Throat Infection Diagnosed?
Physical Examination
A doctor checks your throat for redness, swelling, white patches, or enlarged tonsils. They may also feel the lymph nodes in your neck for tenderness.
Throat Swab Test
A sterile swab is gently rubbed over the back of your throat to collect a sample. This helps identify if the infection is bacterial (like strep throat) or viral.
Rapid Antigen Test
This quick test uses the throat swab sample to check for the presence of strep bacteria. Results are usually available within minutes.
Throat Culture
If the rapid test is negative but symptoms persist, the swab may be sent to a lab for culture. This takes 1–2 days and gives a more accurate result.
Blood Tests
In some cases, a blood sample may be taken to check for signs of infection (like high white blood cell count) or specific viruses like Epstein-Barr (mono).
Allergy Testing
If the throat irritation is thought to be from allergies rather than an infection, allergy tests may be recommended.
Endoscopy (in chronic or severe cases)
A thin, flexible tube with a camera may be used to view deeper parts of the throat and voice box, especially if the infection is recurring or persistent.
What Are Treatment Methods For Throat Infection?
Surgical Throat Infection Treatment
Surgery may be recommended in chronic or severe cases like recurring tonsillitis or abscess formation.
Tonsillectomy and adenoidectomy are common surgical procedures often performed to treat chronic throat and breathing problems. A tonsillectomy involves the removal of the tonsils—two small glands located at the back of the throat that help fight infections but can become repeatedly inflamed, leading to issues like frequent sore throats or difficulty swallowing.
An adenoidectomy involves removing the adenoids, which are soft tissues located behind the nose and above the roof of the mouth. Enlarged or infected adenoids can cause nasal blockage, ear infections, or breathing difficulties, especially during sleep. These procedures are often done together, particularly in children, to improve overall airway function, reduce infection frequency, and enhance quality of life. Both surgeries are safe, performed under general anesthesia, and offered with expert care at hospitals like Artemis.
Non-Surgical Treatments for Throat Infection
Antibiotics: For bacterial infections
Antifungals: For fungal infections
Rest, fluids, and throat sprays: For viral or irritant-based infections
Gargles and lozenges: Help ease discomfort
Lifestyle changes: For irritant-induced infections like GERD
Recovery Tips After Throat Infection Treatment
Stay hydrated and avoid spicy or acidic foods
Complete your medication course
Rest your voice
Avoid smoking or pollutants
Follow up with your ENT specialist if symptoms persist
Preventive Measures for Throat Infections
Wash hands frequently
Avoid close contact with sick individuals
Maintain oral hygiene
Use a humidifier in dry climates
Get vaccinated against the flu and other preventable infections
Choose Artemis Hospitals For Effective Throat Infection Treatment in Gurgaon:
At Artemis Hospital, we believe in giving you the best care possible—starting from accurate diagnosis to complete recovery. Our team of experienced ENT specialists uses advanced tools and personalized treatment plans to manage throat infections effectively, whether it’s a simple sore throat or a chronic condition like recurring tonsillitis. If surgery is needed, procedures like tonsillectomy or adenoidectomy are performed with utmost precision and care.
To book an appointment with the top ENT specialist for Throat infection treatment at Artemis Hospitals, Gurgaon, call our customer care at +91-124-451-1111 or WhatsApp us at +91 9599285476. You can also schedule an appointment through our online patient portal or download and register on the Artemis Personal Health Record mobile app, available for both iOS and Android devices.
Reviewed By Dr. Dilpreet Bajwa
Sr. Consultant - ENT
Artemis Hospitals
FAQs
How to know if a sore throat is viral or bacterial?
Viral sore throats are usually mild with cold symptoms, while bacterial ones may include fever, swollen glands, and white patches.
Is a sore throat the same as a throat infection?
No. A sore throat is a symptom, while a throat infection involves inflammation and is often due to a specific infection.
How do I cure a sore throat fast?
Yes, rest, warm fluids, and saltwater gargles help. But if symptoms persist or worsen, consult an ENT specialist.
Can throat infections cause fever and body aches?
Yes, especially bacterial and viral infections can lead to systemic symptoms like fever, chills, and aches.
Are throat infections contagious?
Yes, most viral and bacterial throat infections are spread through droplets from coughs, sneezes, or close contact.
Can infants or newborns get throat infections?
Yes. Infant throat infections can be serious. Consult a pediatrician immediately if symptoms like refusal to feed or fever appear.
Is it okay to eat or drink cold items during a throat infection?
No. Cold items can worsen irritation. Stick to warm, soothing fluids unless otherwise advised by your doctor.
Can throat infections happen in pregnancy?
Yes, but treatment is adjusted for safety. Always consult your gynecologist or ENT expert.
Whom should I consult for throat infection treatment?
Consult an ENT specialist (Ear, Nose & Throat doctor) for throat infections like sore throat, tonsillitis, or pharyngitis. They’ll diagnose the issue and suggest the right treatment.
Who is the best ENT specialist near me?
Look for experienced ENT specialists with good patient reviews and hospital affiliations. In Gurgaon, Artemis Hospital has top ENT doctors offering expert care and modern treatment options.
Which is the best hospital for throat infection treatment in Gurgaon?
Artemis Hospital, Gurgaon is among the best for throat infection treatment, with:
Skilled ENT specialists
Advanced diagnostic and surgical care
Patient-friendly services
Which factors affect the cost of tonsillectomy surgery in Gurgaon?
The cost depends on:
Hospital and room type
Surgeon’s expertise
Tests and post-op care
Insurance coverage
Artemis offers quality ENT care with transparent pricing.
