Tonsillitis is inflammation of the tonsils. Tonsils are structures situated on either side of the tongue at the back of the throat. They form part of the body's defense system. They become inflamed when they are infected by either viruses or bacteria.
When tonsils become inflamed they enlarge, produce pain on swallowing, produce fever, bad breath and can make the neck lymph glands to become tender. Patients often complain of feeling unwell, reduced appetite and painful mouth opening. The tonsils often become coated with whitish exudates at later stages.
Who can get it and how it is spread?
Tonsillitis is a common condition affecting all age groups. It is especially common in children.
It is thought to be spread by air borne droplet infection and close contact.
Causes of Tonsillitis
Tonsillitis can be viral or bacterial in origin. Viral tonsillitis is more common than bacterial.
The bacteria most commonly associated are Group A Streptococci. A wide variety of viruses have been implicated, in particular Ebstein Barr virus (causing Glandular Fever or Infectious Mononucleosis) is frequently mistaken for bacterial tonsillitis. The other viruses implicated are influenza and Para- influenza viruses.
In the past, bacterial infections like Diphtheria and Scarlet fever used to cause tonsillitis, but it has become rare in the developed countries due to immunization and early treatment. In the developing countries cases of tonsillitis due to diphtheria and scarlet fever are still being reported.
Treatment
Sore throats are mostly caused by viruses which do not respond to antibiotics. This is a self limiting disease, but paracetamol and/or ibuprofen can be taken to ease the symptoms. Please read the manufacturers instructions before taking any medicine. Generally, ibuprofen is to be avoided if you have a history of bronchial asthma, stomach ulcer, indigestion, in pregnancy and kidney disease.
Bacterial Tonsillitis responds to antibiotics and shortens the course of the disease. Your doctor may choose antibiotics depending on your particular circumstances. Generally, penicillin or erythromycin (if you are allergic to penicillin) is used. If the tonsillitis is severe, then you may need hospitalization and antibiotics through your vein.
Tonsillectomy (surgical removal of tonsils) is considered for recurrent attacks of tonsillitis.
How can it be prevented?
The bacteria and viruses (germs) causing tonsillitis are easily spread form person to person. Therefore avoid sharing utensils or toothbrushes with someone suffering from tonsillitis. Frequent hand washing prevents spread of germs.
Tips
o Gargling with aspirin or a pinch of salt is often helpful and eases sore throat. Sucking Lozenges help relieve the symptoms. Aspirin is generally not given to children unless on the advise of your doctor.
o Soft food, warm drinks and drinking plenty of fluid help relieve the soreness and prevent dehydration.
o Adequate rest aids in the recovery.
Dr. Abhishek Arora is an editor for eDoctor- Health Information on the Net and Delhi Bed and Breakfast.
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