Customer question:
How long does it take to treat viral angina? Anonymous customer's question
Pharmacist's answer:
The duration of treatment for viral angina depends on several factors, including the type of virus causing the infection, the severity of symptoms, the individual's general health, and response to treatment. Like most viral infections, viral angina generally resolves independently within a few days to a week. It usually peaks in the first few days of infection, when symptoms are at their worst.
This phase can last from a few days to about a week. After the acute phase, the symptoms of viral angina usually gradually improve. The body temperature can normalize, the pain in the throat decreases, the swelling of the tonsils decreases, and the general well-being improves.
Although most people feel better within a few days to a week, some symptoms, such as exhaustion, a dry cough, or a mild sore throat, may linger for a while. It is important to note that in some people, symptoms of viral angina may last longer, or complications such as a secondary bacterial infection may develop. Suppose the symptoms of viral angina persist for a long time or worsen. In that case, it is recommended that you consult a doctor to rule out other possible causes of the symptoms and receive appropriate medical care. Also, check more about angina pectoris.
Can viral angina cause complications?
Yes, viral angina can cause complications in some cases. Although viruses are usually less likely to cause complications than bacteria, some people can develop more severe complications from viral angina.
Some possible complications of viral angina include:
- Bacterial superinfections: Although viruses usually cause viral angina, sometimes a secondary bacterial infection can occur, such as bacterial sinusitis, bacterial bronchitis, or bacterial pneumonia.
- Reactive arthritis: In some people, viral angina can trigger joint inflammation, known as reactive arthritis. This condition can cause joint pain, swelling, and sometimes inflammation of the eyes or urinary tract.
- Peritonsillitis is an inflammation of the tissue around the tonsils that can occur as a complication of viral angina. Symptoms include a severe sore throat, neck swelling, and difficulty swallowing.
- Glomerulonephritis: Although glomerulonephritis is more often associated with streptococcal angina, it can also be a complication of viral angina in some cases. This inflammatory kidney disease can appear a few weeks after the patient is infected with the virus.
- Rheumatic fever: although this complication is more familiar with streptococcal angina, it can also occur after viral angina in some cases. Rheumatic fever can affect the heart, joints, skin, and central nervous system.
Is viral angina treated only with antibiotics?
Viral angina is not treated with antibiotics, as antibiotics are only effective against bacterial infections. Since a viral infection causes viral angina, antibiotics are not an appropriate treatment for this condition. Treatment of viral angina usually involves symptomatic therapy aimed at relieving symptoms and promoting recovery.
Taking enough time to rest is essential to give your body a chance to recover. It's also important to stay hydrated, as drinking enough fluids can help thin mucus, ease a sore throat, and flush toxins from the body. Painkillers containing paracetamol or ibuprofen can help relieve a sore throat, reduce body temperature, and improve general well-being.
Grinding your mouth with warm salt water can also help reduce inflammation and relieve a sore throat. Applying cold compresses to the outside of the neck can help reduce swelling and discomfort. Moist air can help soothe a dry and irritated throat. Using a humidifier or steaming the air can help relieve discomfort. If the symptoms of viral angina last a long time or get worse, consult a doctor.
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