What is the recommended treatment for patients with acute viral pharyngitis?

Acute viral pharyngitis, commonly caused by viruses such as adenovirus, rhinovirus, or the influenza virus, typically presents with symptoms including sore throat, fever, and sometimes cough. The treatment is supportive since antibiotics are ineffective against viral infections.

Providing hydration and encouraging bed rest are essential as they help the body recover from the viral infection by maintaining fluid balance and allowing the immune system to function optimally. Hydration is particularly important to soothe the throat and prevent dehydration, especially in cases where the patient may have a reduced appetite or a fever.

While topical analgesics can provide symptomatic relief by numbing the throat, they do not address the overall recovery process as effectively as hydration and rest. Corticosteroids are not routinely recommended for viral pharyngitis due to the potential side effects and because they do not significantly speed up recovery. Thus, emphasizing hydration and rest aligns with the best practices for managing viral pharyngitis.