When you have a sore throat on the left side, there are several causes. One of them is tonsillitis. Symptoms include fever and swollen lymph nodes. In some cases, it can also be a result of a viral infection. Regardless of the cause, it can be painful.
1- Tonsillitis Causes Pain on the Left Side of the Throat
Tonsillitis is a condition in which bacteria infect the tonsils. The infection causes pain in the throat and is not contagious. Most people with tonsillitis get it from a cold or flu. To diagnose tonsillitis, a doctor will ask you about your symptoms and examine your throat. If you can’t identify the cause of your pain, a doctor will perform tests to determine what type of tonsillitis you have. Surgical removal of the tonsils is rarely necessary.
Symptoms of tonsillitis include sore throat and white coating of the tonsils. Patients may also develop fever, earache, and muffled voice. Generally, tonsillitis is treated with antibiotics. However, some people may need surgery to remove their tonsils. This may be necessary if multiple abscesses occur.
2- Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a chronic condition in which acidic contents from the stomach move backward into the esophagus, causing pain and discomfort on the left side of the throat. The LES, which connects the mouth to the stomach, normally closes to keep food from flowing backwards. When the LES opens, food flows from the stomach to the esophagus, which causes the pain and inflammation.
Symptoms of this condition include a burning sensation in the throat, chest, and neck after eating. People with GERD also experience heartburn and regurgitation. In severe cases, GERD can even damage the respiratory tract. Most often, however, patients with GERD will experience both heartburn and regurgitation.
3- Swollen Lymph Nodes
Swollen lymph nodes are not necessarily an indication of a cancer. They may be indicative of viral infection. Antibiotics can help, but a biopsy is needed to diagnose the cause. Depending on the cause, it could be a tumor or a fungus infection, which requires special treatment. Bacterial infections can also cause swollen lymph nodes. Early treatment is critical to prevent the spread of infection.
Swollen lymph nodes are painful, but often caused by an infection. If left untreated, they can develop into an abscess, which is a localized collection of pus. This pus contains white blood cells, bacteria, and dead tissue. If you develop this condition, you may need to visit your doctor for an antibiotic treatment and drainage.
A physical examination and a history of illness can help diagnose the underlying cause. Generally, a lump in the lymph nodes can be an indication of a more serious disease, such as lymphoma. However, if the node is hard or enlarged, it could indicate an infection or cancer. A doctor will then determine whether further testing is necessary.
4- Tonsillitis Causes a Fever
Treatment for tonsillitis depends on the type of infection you have. If the cause is bacterial, antibiotics are often prescribed to prevent infection and to reduce the risk of spreading it. The good news is that tonsillitis does not usually pose long-term health problems. However, bacterial tonsillitis can lead to more serious conditions. Those at risk for bacterial tonsillitis include people who have a history of the illness, those who have had their tonsils removed as a child, and those who work with children. In addition, adults who are affected by tonsillitis are at an increased risk of developing peritonsillar abscesses, a serious complication.
Symptoms of tonsillitis include a fever, sore throat, and swollen lymph nodes. They are usually tender to touch. Young children are more likely to suffer from this illness. While a fever and left side throat pain are the main symptoms of tonsillitis, the illness may also cause the child to refuse food or drool.
5- Throat Coat Relieves Irritation
Herbal tea is a natural remedy for throat irritation and sore throat. Drinking herbal tea has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. A tea with turmeric and honey can soothe a sore throat. Another alternative is throat coat, a tea with licorice root and marshmallow root.
Licorice root contains a substance called mucilage, which is a lubricant that loosens mucus and protects the throat. This herb can also be taken as a tea, and it can also be bought from a health food store. Peppermint essential oil is also good for throat soreness. Peppermint essential oil is a natural decongestant. If you’re not able to drink tea, you can apply a few drops of peppermint essential oil to your chest and throat.
Treatment
If you have left side throat pain, you may be suffering from a variety of different causes. Some of these causes include a bacterial infection, tonsillitis, and even a canker sore. Fortunately, there are many home remedies for throat pain that are safe and effective. These remedies can ease the discomfort, and can even be a good alternative to seeing your doctor.
First, you can try over-the-counter pain relievers to relieve the symptoms. These can be used in moderation and for a limited period of time. Also, you can try a humidifier to keep the dry air from irritating your throat. Warm water and salt can also be gargled several times a day to soothe your throat.
Although sore throats are not typically serious illnesses, a doctor should be consulted as soon as possible if they are persistent. You may have a bacterial infection that hasn’t responded to home treatment, or you may be suffering from a tumor. A swollen gland in the neck can also be a cause of persistent throat pain. A doctor can determine which type of infection you have by examining you and running a few tests.
