Lateral gangrene (angina lateralis) is a relatively rare pharyngitis. It often occurs as a result of a cold. Typical symptoms are sore throat and ears, as well as difficulty swallowing. Depending on the severity of the condition, home remedies may be all that is needed to treat lateral gangrene. However, in some cases, treatment with an antibiotic is also necessary.
Lateral trangangina: infection as the cause.
In lateral trangangina, the lymphatics in the lateral posterior pharyngeal wall are primarily affected. These are referred to as the ‘lateral cords’. With regard to the involvement of the lymph nodes, a side strand gangrene is clearly different from a normal pharyngitis, such as occurs in the context of a cold. In this case, it is an inflammation of the pharyngeal mucosa. Lateral trangangina is often the result of a cold. Due to the cold, the lateral cords are already weakened and can then be more easily colonized by pathogens such as bacteria or viruses. The disease can occur on one side or on both sides. People who have had their tonsils removed are particularly susceptible to lateral gangrene. Because they lack the protective function of the tonsils, pathogens can enter the throat particularly easily.
Typical symptoms of lateral gangrene
In the case of lateral gangrene, symptoms such as sore throat and difficulty swallowing occur just as in the case of a normal pharyngitis. Likewise, swollen lymph nodes that are sensitive to pressure are typical of the infection. In addition, sufferers of lateral gangrene may experience ear pain. Due to the proximity of the lateral cords to the Eustachian tube, which connects the ear and nasopharynx, a middle ear infection is also possible as a complication in a more severe course. Other symptoms of lateral gangrene include:
- Reddened and swollen lymphatic ducts, which may be covered with white specks
- Headache
- Pain in the limbs
- Fatigue
- Fever
Since side gangrene is contagious, you should avoid contact with infected people and pay attention to careful hygiene (for example, frequent hand washing).
Correct diagnosis
Cold symptoms that are accompanied by ear pain are typical signs of lateral gangrene. The doctor can confirm this suspicion by examining the upper throat: if the side cords are red, swollen and possibly white-tipped, side gangrene is likely. By taking a swab of the pharyngeal mucosa, the doctor can check whether the infection was caused by bacteria or viruses. This is important because if the infection is bacterial, it may make sense to use an antibiotic.
Treating lateral gangrene with antibiotics
Side-striatal gangrene usually heals without problems – complications rarely occur. In mild cases, no therapy with an antibiotic is necessary. Often, it is enough for the patient to take it easy and drink plenty of fluids. Throat compresses, lozenges and nasal drops can also help to relieve the symptoms. In case of fever or pain, painkillers with paracetamol are recommended. If the symptoms do not disappear after a few days, you should definitely consult a doctor. This also applies if you suffer from high fever or severe pain. The doctor can then decide whether an antibiotic should be used to treat lateral gangrene. Used in a timely manner, an antibiotic can prevent complications such as an abscess or middle ear infection.
Therapy with home remedies
In the case of lateral gangrene, the use of home remedies is useful in any case. In milder courses, these are sufficient as sole therapy; in more severe cases, they are used in addition to an antibiotic. Possible home remedies are:
- Chamomile or sage tea
- Inhale with chamomile tea
- Gargling with salt water
- Warm neck compress
If you rely on homeopathic remedies, phytolacca is recommended for the treatment of lateral gangrene.
Duration of a side gangrene
As a guideline, side-striatal gangina should heal within three to six days. At least fever and difficulty swallowing should have disappeared after this duration.If this is not the case or if severe symptoms occur, you should definitely consult a doctor. This is because timely treatment is important to prevent complications such as middle ear infection, tympanic effusion, abscess in the area of the palatine tonsil, and secondary diseases.
