There are many different types of throat disorders, many of which are very common. The throat, or pharynx, is an elongated tube that carries food to the esophagus, where it is then transported to the stomach for digestion. It also helps bring air into the trachea, or windpipe, and into the lungs for breathing, as well as the larynx for speaking. Most people will have some type of throat disorder at some point. Disorders that affect the throat can range from a simple sore throat to an invasive infection or disease of the throat.
A sore throat, which is medically defined as pharyngitis, is generally the most common of all throat disorders. The disorder is usually caused by inflammation or swelling in the throat. A sore throat can be caused by a virus, bacteria, or an allergic reaction. Sometimes the cause of a sore throat can be as simple as a dry throat. Often a mouth breather or a person who sleeps with their mouth open frequently may get a sore throat due to this reason.
Strep throat is also included in the list of common throat disorders. In most cases, strep throat is caused by the bacteria Streptococcus pyogenes, which is also known as group A strep. This type of bacterial infection will usually cause a more significant degree of sore throat than is experienced with pharyngitis. People with strep throat often have other symptoms, such as fever, headache, chills, and often nausea. The throat may also appear extremely red and may have white patches as well.
Tonsillitis is another type of throat disorder. The tonsils located in the back of the throat can become inflamed and cause this disease. Tonsillitis can be caused by a virus and commonly by the same viruses that cause colds. It can also be caused by the same bacteria that cause strep throat. People with tonsillitis may have a sore throat, in addition to ear pain and difficulty swallowing.
Throat disorders can also include different types of throat cancer. In general, throat cancer is commonly defined as cancer that occurs in various areas of the throat, including the throat, tonsils, or voice box. Cancer can occur from very small malignant cells or from a visible malignant lump in the throat. Any of the symptoms that occur with benign throat disorders can also be common in people with throat cancer. In many cases, a biopsy will be needed to distinguish a malignant throat disorder from a benign one.
The larynx or voice box is located just below the throat. For this reason, disorders that affect this organ are commonly grouped with disorders of the throat. Laryngitis is a disorder caused by inflammation or swelling of the larynx. This disorder can cause sore throat as well as extreme dryness of the throat. One of the most recognizable symptoms of laryngitis is hoarseness, and some people with this disorder almost completely lose their voice.