Summary
- Majority of cases in adults and children are of viral aetiology.
- Duration of symptoms more than 10 days often indicates bacterial cause.
- Imaging is not required for diagnosis unless complications are suspected.
- Condition is usually self-limiting; however, symptomatic therapy is recommended.
- Antibiotics are only recommended in select patient groups (e.g., immunocompromised or with severe disease).
Other related conditions
- Acute pharyngitis
- Influenza infection
- Migraine headache in adults
- Chronic sinusitis
- Otitis media
- Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease
- Non-allergic rhinitis
- Allergic rhinitis
- Common cold
- Laryngitis
- Epiglottitis
- Bacterial meningitis
- Viral meningitis
- Tonsillitis
- Paediatric migraine
- Peri-orbital and orbital cellulitis
- Cavernous sinus thrombosis
Last updated: Aug 31, 2012
