Pharyngitis: Prevention

To prevent pharyngitis (pharyngitis), attention must be paid to reducing individual risk factors.

Behavioral risk factors

• Diet
  • Malnutrition and undernutrition – weakens the immune system.
  • Micronutrient deficiency (vital substances) – see prevention with micronutrients.
• Consumption of stimulants
  • Alcohol
  • Tobacco (smoking) – favors upper respiratory tract infections.
• Psycho-social situation
  • Stress (due toweakening of the immune system).
• Lack of hygiene – simple hand washing with soap can already help to reduce the rate of infection.

Environmental pollution – intoxications (poisonings).

• Decreased humidity – e.g. air conditioning, mouth breathing.
• Dust loads in the workplace

Prevention factors (protective factors)

• Consistent hand hygiene with hand washing several times a day.
• Strengthening the immune system:
  • Exercise: regular exercise in the fresh air.
  • Sauna: regular sauna sessions or alternating showers.
  • Sleep: regular and sufficient
  • Supplementation of vitamins and trace elements
    • Regular intake of zinc can reduce the occurrence of cold symptoms.
    • Taking vitamin C (> 200 mg/day) can protect against the common cold.