Tonsillitis

Tonsillitis Treatment in MRC Nagar, Chennai

The two oval-shaped lymph nodes present at the back of the throat are called tonsils. The common viral and  bacterial  infection of the tonsils is called tonsillitis. It can be uncomfortable and irritating, but it is not a major health issue as it can be treated within a few days.

To seek treatment, you can consult an ENT specialist near you. You can also visit an ENT hospital near you.

What do we need to know about tonsillitis ?

Tonsils trap germs and prevent infection. They also produce antibodies against bacteria. When these lymphs catch bacterial and viral infections, the condition is called tonsillitis. It can affect adults belonging to any age group, but children are more prone to it.

What are the types of tonsillitis?

Based on the severity, tonsillitis is categorized into three types:

• Acute tonsillitis: it is the primary stage of  tonsillitis. Symptoms can last from three or four days to two weeks.
• Recurrent tonsillitis: when your tonsil infection occurs repeatedly.
• Chronic tonsillitis: it is a prolonged tonsil infection.

What are the indications of tonsillitis?

The primary symptom of tonsillitis is inflammation in the tonsils. Other symptoms include:

• Swollen and red tonsils
• Sore throat
• White and yellow patches on the tonsils
• Difficulty in swallowing food
• Fever
• Enlarged glands in the neck
• Heavy voice
• Bad breath
• Headache
• Neck and ear pain
• Stiffness in the neck
• Stomach ache
• Painful blisters in the throat
• Loss of appetite

What causes tonsillitis?

Tonsillitis is caused by common viral and bacterial infections. Streptococcus is the most common bacteria causing this infection. Other than this, adenoviruses, influenza virus, parainfluenza viruses, herpes simplex virus, cytomegalovirus and the measles virus have also been associated with tonsillitis. These viruses enter the body via the nose and the mouth. Bacterial infections such as strep throat can also cause tonsillitis.

When do you need to see a doctor?

If symptoms like sore throat, difficulty and pain in swallowing food, fatigue and breathing problems are persistent for more than 24 hours, immediately contact your doctor.

You can search online for ENT doctors near me.

You can request an appointment at Apollo Spectra Hospitals, MRC Nagar, Chennai.

Call 1860 500 2244 to book an appointment.

What are the risks associated with tonsillitis?

• Age: Children aged between 5 and 15 years are more prone to tonsillitis caused by bacterial infection. Whereas in adults, tonsillitis caused by viral infections are more common. Older people also contract tonsillitis quite often.
• Frequent exposure to germs and dust can also be a risk.

What are the complications?

• Pus development between tonsil and throat wall (peritonsillar abscess)
• Spreading of infection in other body parts
• Obstructive sleep apnea
• Scarlet fever
• Rheumatic fever
• Improper kidney filtration and swelling 
• Tonsillar cellulitis
• Infection in middle ear

What are the treatments available for chronic tonsillitis?

A mild tonsillitis does not even require treatment. Treatment is required in severe cases and it includes:

• Antibiotics like penicillin
• Tonsillectomy, a surgical procedure to remove tonsils

Conclusion

Tonsillitis is discomforting and unpleasant, but it can be treated very easily.The mortality rate from tonsillitis is very low. As tonsillitis is common among children, it is important to instil in them good hygiene habits.

References

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/tonsillitis/symptoms-causes/syc-20378479
https://www.webmd.com/oral-health/tonsillitis-symptoms-causes-and-treatments