Tonsillitis- Few Informations

What is tonsillitis?

Tonsillitis is a disorder involving inflammation of the tonsils. There are two tonsils, situated on either side of the back of the throat and they form part of the body's immune system. They, like the rest of the immune system, contain special cells to trap and kill bacteria and viruses travelling through the body. When the main site of infection is within the tonsils they swell, become red and inflamed and may show a surface coating of white spots. Tonsillitis is extremely common in children and young people but it can occur at any age. The characteristics of the disease are pain in the throat and trouble swallowing. Tonsillitis is usually a self-limiting condition, ie it gets better without treatment, and generally there are no complications.

TONSILLITIS TREATMENT OPTIONS

Enlarged tonsils are normal for many children. However, you should call your physician if your child has recurrent sore throats (more than five infections in one year). Tonsillitis can usually be treated with antibiotics, but a tonsillectomy may be indicated if the tonsils do not respond to antibiotics. Bacterial tonsillitis can be treated with antibiotics, but viral tonsillitis cannot. A throat culture can confirm the presence of streptococci or other bacteria and will help your physician determine the appropriate care.

Swollen, enlarged tonsils may make swallowing painful and eating difficult. Encourage your child to consume liquids and soft foods. Warm (not hot), very cold and bland fluids may soothe the throat. Gargling with warm salt water may also provide relief. A nonprescription pain medication, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, may be used to reduce pain and fever. Aspirin may have negative effects, so check with your doctor before administering and medications. Rest will promote healing.

Tonsillitis symptoms usually begin to subside 2 to 3 days after treatment is initiated. However, even if he or she is feeling better, your child should take the full course of antibiotics as prescribed by your pediatrician.

If tonsillitis is severe or if one or more of the following conditions are present, surgery to remove the tonsils (tonsillectomy) may be recommended:

· Swollen, enlarged tonsils that make breathing difficult

· Difficulty swallowing

· Recurrent sore throats

· Recurrent throat infections

· Obstructive sleep apnea

What are the signs and symptoms of tonsillitis?

Pain in the throat (sometimes severe) that may last more than 48 hours and be associated with difficulty in swallowing. The pain may spread to the ears.

The throat is reddened, the tonsils are swollen and may be coated or have white spots on them.Possibly a high temperature.Swollen lymph glands under the jaw and in the neck.Headache.Loss of voice or changes in the voice.