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Signs and Symptoms of Tonsillitis
Below are the symptoms of tonsillitis:
- Difficulty in swallowing
- Ear pain
- Fever, chills
- Headache
- Sore throat
- Tenderness of the jaw and throat
Tonsillitis Causes
The causes of tonsillitis are:
- Bacterial infection
- Viral infection
- Strep throat
Tonsillitis Treatment
Following treatment options are available for tonsillitis:
- Doctors generally give antibiotics to treat tonsillitis as they are not serious and do not cause other problems.
- Tonsillectomy – If infection goes severe, your doctor would suggest tonsillectomy. It is an operation done to remove tonsils. This option is recommended for people who get repeated or extremely severe bouts of tonsillitis. The surgery is suggested only for people who have had:
- at least five bouts of tonsillitis in the past year
- frequent ear infections because of swollen tonsils
- swollen tonsils that make it harder to breathe or swallow
- sore throats that stop you, or your child, getting on with everyday life (such as finding it hard to sleep or your child missing school)
FAQs
What is tonsillitis?
Tonsillitis is an inflammation of the tonsils, which are two small glands located at the back of your throat.
What are the symptoms of tonsillitis?
Symptoms of tonsillitis include sore throat, difficulty swallowing, fever, headache, earache, and swollen lymph nodes.
How is tonsillitis diagnosed?
Tonsillitis is typically diagnosed based on a physical exam and a medical history, throat culture/blood test.
Who is at risk for tonsillitis?
Anyone can get tonsillitis, but it is most common in children and teenagers.
Is tonsillitis contagious?
Yes, tonsillitis can be contagious if it is caused by a viral or bacterial infection.
How is tonsillitis treated?
Treatment for tonsillitis depends on the cause. If it is a viral infection, it will usually clear up on its own within a week or two. If it is caused by bacteria, antibiotics may be prescribed.
Can tonsillitis lead to complications?
In rare cases, tonsillitis can lead to complications such as a peritonsillar abscess, rheumatic fever, or kidney inflammation.
Can tonsillitis be prevented?
There is no sure way to prevent tonsillitis, but practising good hygiene can help reduce your risk of getting it.
How long does tonsillitis last?
The length of time tonsillitis lasts depends on the cause. If it is a viral infection, it will usually clear up on its own within a week or two. If it is caused by bacteria, antibiotics may be needed, and recovery may take up to two weeks.
Can tonsillitis be treated at home?
Mild cases are treated with rest, fluids, and pain relievers. However, it is important to see a doctor if symptoms persist or if you have difficulty breathing.
Can tonsillitis be treated with natural remedies?
Some natural remedies like gargling with salt water, drinking warm liquids, or using a humidifier may help relieve symptoms of tonsillitis, but they should not be used as a substitute for medical treatment.
Should I have my tonsils removed if I have tonsillitis frequently?
Tonsillectomy may be recommended if you have frequent episodes of tonsillitis or if your tonsils are enlarged and causing breathing difficulties.
What are the risks of tonsillectomy?
Risks of tonsillectomy include bleeding, infection, and anaesthesia complications.
Can adults get tonsillitis?
Yes, adults can get tonsillitis, but it is less common than in children.
Can tonsillitis cause cancer?
No, tonsillitis itself does not cause cancer, but some cases of tonsillitis may be caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), which can increase the risk of certain types of cancer.
Can tonsillitis caused by strep?
Streptococcus is a bacteria that can cause tonsillitis, but some cases of tonsillitis are caused by viruses.
Can tonsillitis cause ear infections?
Yes, tonsillitis can cause ear infections because the tonsils and ears are connected by the Eustachian tube.
How can I relieve the symptoms of tonsillitis?
You can relieve the symptoms of tonsillitis by resting, drinking plenty of fluids, using over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen, and using throat lozenges or sprays to numb the throat. You may gargle with warm salt water or use a humidifier. However, it is important to see a doctor if symptoms persist or if you have difficulty breathing.
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