The weather is getting warmer by the day, and this sudden shift, like always, is not sitting well with people's health. From fever to a blocked nose to coughing and fatigue, many people are experiencing classic signs of the common cold and flu. Apart from that, sore throats and hoarse voices have become prevalent during this time. But before receiving treatment, it is important to know exactly what you’re suffering from. A throat pain can indicate both viral and bacterial infection. While the intensity of discomfort may be the same, the two infections require different sets of treatments.
Also Read: Common Bacterial Infections And How To Prevent Them
What Is The Difference Between Viral And Bacterial Infection?
Speaking with the OnlyMyHealth team, Dr Bhavini Shah, Head of Microbiology, Neuberg Supratech Reference Laboratories, shares that both bacteria and viruses are present in the environment, including surfaces, air, water, and living organisms.
They can be transmitted through direct contact, airborne particles, contaminated food or water, and insect bites.
Both bacteria and viruses have the potential to cause infections and diseases in humans, animals, and plants.
But despite being similar in how they spread and affect people, their treatments are poles apart.
Dr S A Rehman, General Medicine, Associate Professor, Noida International Institute of Medical Sciences and Hospital, NIU, explains that the distinction between a viral and a bacterial infection lies in their causative agents and how they react to medicines.
“Bacterial infections are caused by bacteria and can be treated using antibiotics, whereas viral infections are caused by viruses and do not respond to antibiotics; instead, they usually clear up on their own with supportive care,” he says.
Not being able to differentiate between the two can often lead to drug misuse and future complications.
How To Know If A Throat Pain Is Viral Or Bacterial?
According to Dr Rehman, throat pain can be caused by both bacterial and viral infections, and distinguishing between the two is critical for effective therapy.
“Healthcare experts frequently examine symptoms to identify whether throat pain is caused by bacteria or viruses and may perform a fast strep test or throat culture.
“Bacterial throat infections, such as strep throat, often cause acute discomfort without coughing or cold symptoms, but viral infections may include a cough, runny nose, or hoarseness,” he shares.
Additionally, when it comes to a bacterial sore throat, it can be accompanied by nausea, vomiting, stomach aches, and usually no coughing, as per MedicineNet. On the contrary, a viral sore throat can come with a cough, a runny nose, and nasal congestion.
Also Read: Try These 4 Natural Ways To Treat Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)
Do Not Risk Antibiotic Resistance
Many wonder why there is so much hype around differentiating between a viral and a bacterial infection.
‘Antibiotic resistance’ is the biggest reason.
Antibiotic resistance is a growing public health concern where bacteria learn to dodge the drugs designed to kill them.
This makes common infections difficult or impossible to treat, requiring stronger antibiotics with potentially harsher side effects.
Dr Rehman says, "Antibiotic resistance in throat infections can prolong disease, worsen symptoms, and raise the risk of complications. It may also demand stronger drugs, maybe with additional negative effects. Furthermore, abuse of antibiotics can disturb the body's natural bacterial balance, causing other health difficulties."
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), antibiotic resistance was directly responsible for 10.27 lakh global deaths in 2019 and contributed to 40.95 lakh deaths.
Conclusion
Throat pain is a common indication of either a viral or bacterial infection. Depending on the cause, the treatment approach may vary. Therefore, diagnosing the source of the condition plays a critical role in avoiding drug misuse, which can further lead to drug resistance over time. Speaking with a healthcare professional and undergoing physical examinations and tests can help determine the cause of your health issue. This way, you can receive proper treatment and have a quick recovery.