Tonsillitis
On this page, you’ll find everything you need to know about tonsillitis.
What Is Tonsillitis?
They are two rounded masses of tissue located at the back of the pharynx, considered part of the lymphatic system.
Tonsillitis is an infection that affects the tonsils (which are two rounded masses of tissue located at the back of the pharynx and considered part of the lymphatic system). It causes inflammation and swelling of the tonsils, which often subsides after 3-4 days to two weeks. However, in some cases, the inflammation may become chronic.
- What Are the Symptoms of Tonsillitis?
- White spots on the tonsils.
- Difficulty swallowing.
- Fever..
- Sore throat.
- Redness and swelling of the tonsils.
- Cough.
- Headache.
- Ear pain.
- Fatigue.
- Bad breath.
- Swelling near the neck..
- Dryness.
Breathing through the mouth.
- In addition to these symptoms,some children may experience:.
- Nausea and vomiting.
Stomach pain.
What Causes Tonsillitis?
- Tonsillitis is often caused by a viral or bacterial infection, and several factors increase the risk of infection, such as:
- Age 2-15: Children aremore prone totonsillitis than adults.
Presence of colds, flu, and respiratory infections.
How Is Tonsillitis Diagnosed?:
- The doctor takes the medical history and performs a physical examination. Additional procedures may be requested as needed, such as:
- Taking a throat swab.
Laboratory blood tests.
How Is Tonsillitis Treated?
- Treatment involves various procedures depending on the need, which may include:
- Antibiotics as prescribed by the doctor.
- Getting plenty of rest.
- Drinking lots of fluids.
- Taking pain relievers and ensuring a doctor is consulted before giving pain relievers to children.
- Lozenges to relieve throat inflammation.
- Tonsillectomy.
Avoiding smoke.
Often, viral tonsillitis resolves on its own.
- How To Prevent Tonsillitis?
- Keep your hands clean.
- Follow proper sneezing and coughing etiquette.
Do not drink or eat from the same container as an infected person.
What Are the Complications of Tonsillitis?
- Complications from tonsillitis are rare, but they can include:
- An abscess forming between the tonsils.
- Ear infection..
Sleep apnea.
When Should You See a Doctor?
- It is advised to see a doctor if:
- Symptoms appear and persist for more than 4 days.
- You have difficulty breathing.
- You have difficulty swallowing.
- You have difficulty speaking.
- You experience severe throat pain.
There is swelling inside the mouth and throat.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Why might a child need a tonsillectomy?
- Ineffectiveness of antibiotics.
- Enlarged tonsils causing difficulty swallowing or breathing.
- Recurring tonsillitis.
