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Q: Throat infections

asked by: DoctorQuestion on June 12th, 2008

I have never been this sick. For the past month, I have had a severe sore throat in the bottom of my throat and sometimes the pain goes up behind my ears. The pain has severly incresed in the past week and the inside of my throat is swollen to the point that it is difficult to swallow and talk. Although, I did receive a steroid shot 2 days ago, which has made me feel 50% better, however today my sore throat is returning and feels as if the swelling is returning. I usually have quite a bit of energy and do an hour of heavy cardio at least 5 times a week with an hour of weight training 5 times a week, however, for the last month I have had no energy, barely making it to work everyday. I have been sleeping and working only. I have had fevers of 101 and chills and sweats. I have body aches all over but they are not occuring consistenly, only from time to time. I have lost 5 pounds in the past week and it is usually dificult for me to lose weight and I have not been working out.Thanks

Replies(1)

Dr. Nikola Gjuzelov , MD

replied on June 17th, 2008

Cold, Flu and Viral Infections Answer A4284

Given your symptoms (painful and swollen throat, fever, chills, sweats) you probably have a throat infection but it is very strange that the throat cultures were negative. If you had started taking antibiotics before the throat sample was taken the results might appear false negative. You tried 3 different antibiotics in 4 weeks which is also not good.

You may have throat infection complications like a para-tonsilar abscess or a retrophariongeal abscess which requires urgent treatment.

You should consult an ENT-specialist as soon as possible.

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