Tonsillitis

Definition:

Tonsillitis is the inflammation of the tonsils, two oval-shaped pads of tissue at the back of the throat — one tonsil on each side. It is usually caused by viral or bacterial infections.

Causes:

• Viral infections: such as common cold viruses, influenza, Epstein-Barr virus (causes mononucleosis)

• Bacterial infections: most commonly Group A Streptococcus bacteria (strep throat)

• Other causes: fungal infections or irritants (rare)

Symptoms:

• Sore throat

• Red, swollen tonsils, sometimes with white or yellow patches (exudate)

• Painful swallowing

• Fever

• Swollen lymph nodes in the neck

• Bad breath

• Headache

• Voice changes or muffled voice

• Ear pain

• Fatigue

• Sometimes, difficulty breathing (if tonsils are very swollen)

Types of Tonsillitis:

1. Acute tonsillitis: Sudden onset, lasts less than 2 weeks

2. Chronic tonsillitis: Persistent or recurring infection lasting weeks to months

3. Recurrent tonsillitis: Multiple episodes (e.g., 7+ times a year)

Diagnosis:

• Physical examination (looking at the throat)

• Throat swab for bacterial culture or rapid strep test

• Blood tests (if mononucleosis or other viral cause suspected)

Treatment:

General/Home Care:

• Rest and hydration

• Warm saltwater gargles

• Pain relievers: acetaminophen (paracetamol) or ibuprofen

• Throat lozenges or sprays

• Soft, cool foods and fluids

Medical Treatment:

• If bacterial (strep) tonsillitis: Antibiotics (commonly penicillin or amoxicillin)

• If viral, antibiotics are ineffective; supportive care is advised

• Severe or chronic tonsillitis may require tonsillectomy (surgical removal of tonsils)

When to see a doctor:

• Difficulty breathing or swallowing

• High fever lasting more than 2 days

• Severe throat pain or persistent symptoms beyond a week

• Frequent episodes of tonsillitis

• Symptoms of dehydration (dry mouth, little urine)

Complications (rare but possible):

• Peritonsillar abscess (collection of pus near tonsil)

• Spread of infection to surrounding tissues

• Rheumatic fever or kidney inflammation (post-strep complications)