Understanding the Symptoms of Tonsillitis

1. Understanding the Symptoms of Tonsillitis Tonsils are the two lymph nodes that are located one each on either side of the back of the throat. They act as filters and prevent the germs from entering the airways. So their main functionality is defence mechanism as they prevent the attack of infections. They also produce antibodies to combat infection. However, tonsils are themselves prone to the attack of bacteria and viruses making them swollen and inflamed. This condition is termed tonsillitis. Tonsillitis is a common throat infection though it occurs more frequently in children. Neglecting tonsillitis can lead to complications like abscess formation, breathing problems, middle ear infection, obstructive sleep apnea and tonsillar cellulitis (severe infection). Hence, it is important to consult the throat specialist doctor and seek medical help where there are repeated bouts of infections or symptoms prevail despite medication. Vikram ENT Hospital is a specialised ENT hospital in Coimbatore that provides effective treatment for all ENT problems including tonsillitis. It is equipped by the latest state-of-art facilities, infrastructure and a competent team of ENT specialists and ENT surgeons. Types of Tonsillitis  Acute Tonsillitis where the symptoms last for a few days but may extend up to two weeks.  Recurrent Tonsillitis in which the infections occurs multiple times in a year.  Chronic Tonsillitis wherein the infection and symptoms persist for a significantly longer duration of time. Tonsillitis Symptoms  Tenderness in throat or throat pain  Sore throat/ Hoarseness of voice  Fever  Redness in the throat  Headache, fever or chills  Coating of yellow and white colour on the tonsils  Pain in the ears  Loss of appetite  Stiffness in the neck

2. Bad breath  Sometimes, food particles, bacteria and mucus may get trapped due to poor oral hygiene leading to the formation of tonsil stones. These are usually harmless and dislodge by themselves though they may cause discomfort. Tonsillitis Causes Usually, tonsillitis is caused by viruses that lead to common cold. A few other viruses that can also cause tonsillitis are rhinovirus, Epstein-Barr virus, Hepatitis A and HIV. Sometimes, bacterial infections can also be the reason. One of the most common bacteria that cause tonsillitis is Streptococcus pyogenes, the one that causes strep throat. Other strains of strep and some other bacteria also result in this infection. Bacterial tonsillitis is more common in children aged between five and fifteen. Diagnosis of Tonsillitis Tonsillitis is diagnosed by physical examination of the throat. The doctors may suggest a throat culture to determine the cause of the infection. Sometimes, a blood test (complete blood count) is also done to know whether the throat problem is due to virus or bacteria so that the relevant treatment course may be decided. Treatment for Tonsillitis Normally, mild tonsillitis does not require treatment and generally resolves itself especially if it is caused by a virus like cold and cough.  Home Remedies: The following precautionary steps may be taken to provide relief-  Drinking plenty of fluids to remain well-hydrated  Taking sufficient rest  Gargling with warm salt water several times each day  Using throat lozenges or throat sprays  Eating frozen foods like popsicles  Using a humidifier to keep the surrounding air damp  Avoiding the inhalation of smoke and other toxic pollutants  Consuming medicines to reduce pain and inflammation  Antibiotics: Antibiotics are prescribed for bacterial tonsillitis to fight the infection like strep throat treatment. But strep throat can cause more acute symptoms like nausea, vomiting, tiny red spots at the back of the mouth and white pus formation around the tonsils. Antibiotics are more essential for patients who are more likely to develop health complications due to the prevailing throat infection. It is important to complete the full dose even though the symptoms may disappear earlier to reduce the risk of antibiotic resistance.  Surgical Intervention-A throat surgery that is used to remove the tonsils is called a tonsillectomy. This is inevitable for patients who experience chronic or recurrent episodes of tonsillitis, symptoms do not improve with medication or related health complications occur. This surgery is recommended if the infection attacks happen more than five to seven times in a year. It also helps to resolve swallowing difficulties and breathing problems that occur due to tonsillitis. Most patients are discharged the same day after surgery though it may take one or two weeks for complete recovery.