Symptoms of Herpangina at 27
Yesterday morning, I began experiencing pain on the left side of my throat, particularly when swallowing. Upon examination, I noticed ulcers located on the back of my tongue, primarily affecting the left side of my tonsils and throat. Interestingly, my tonsils themselves do not appear to be swollen. Last night, I developed a fever and have been feeling quite cold since then; today marks the second day of this symptom. My temperature reached 38 degrees Celsius this morning. I consulted a doctor, who suggested that it’s likely just the flu.
Answers (1)
7/11/2025, 5:40:37 AM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you're dealing with some uncomfortable symptoms that could indeed be related to herpangina or a viral infection. The presence of throat pain, ulcers in the mouth, and fever fits the profile of herpangina, which is caused by the coxsackievirus, and can occur in older children and adults, though it's more common in younger kids.
Summary of Key Points:
- Symptoms include throat pain, mouth ulcers, and fever.
- Your symptoms might indicate herpangina, despite the doctor's suggestion of the flu.
Explanation:
Herpangina primarily presents with painful sores on the back of the throat, which you've already noticed, alongside fever and sometimes cold symptoms. While flu symptoms can overlap due to fever and throat discomfort, the characteristic ulcers you mentioned lean more toward herpangina. Herpangina is usually viral and resolves on its own within a week.
Next Steps:
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Pain Management: Use over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen to help reduce throat pain and lower your fever. Follow dosing instructions on the package based on your age and weight.
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Hydration and Nutrition: Drink plenty of fluids, like water and electrolytes. Opt for soft foods that are easier to swallow, such as yogurt, smoothies, or soups. Avoid acidic or spicy foods, as they can irritate your throat.
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Monitor Symptoms: Keep an eye on your temperature and other symptoms. If your fever persists for more than a couple of days or worsens, or if you notice any new severe symptoms (such as difficulty breathing or swallowing), seek further medical attention.
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Rest: Make sure to get plenty of rest, as this will aid your recovery.
If your symptoms do not improve significantly within a few days or get worse, consider reaching out to your healthcare provider again for further evaluation. Your health and comfort are important, and it may be necessary to explore other causes or treatments.
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