What is tonsillitis?
Tonsillitis is inflammation of the tonsils.
Most cases of tonsillitis are caused by infection with a common virus, but bacterial infections also may cause tonsillitis.
Because appropriate treatment for tonsillitis depends on the cause, it's important to get a prompt and accurate diagnosis. Therefore, it is necessary to consult an otorhinolaryngologist in time.
Surgery to remove tonsils, once a common procedure to treat tonsillitis, is usually performed only when bacterial tonsillitis occurs frequently, doesn't respond to other treatments or causes serious complications.
Unlike normal sore throat, the pain during tonsillitis is more severe, intense. The patient has difficulty swallowing and at the same time significantly worsens the general state of health, usually with a high temperature.
In the case of viral etiology, the incubation period is 1-6 days, while in the case of streptococcal etiology the incubation period ranges from 12 hours to 4 days. The average duration of illness is 7 days.
You should consult a doctor if despite self-medication the sore throat has not decreased, swallowing has worsened, you complain of headaches, joint pain, you have a cold and a high temperature.
Symptoms
Common signs and symptoms of tonsillitis include:
- Red, swollen tonsils
- White or yellow coating or patches on the tonsils
- Sore throat
- Difficult or painful swallowing
- Fever
- Enlarged, tender glands (lymph nodes) in the neck
- A scratchy, muffled or throaty voice
- Bad breath
- Stomachache, particularly in younger children
- Stiff neck
- Headache
In young children who are unable to describe how they feel, signs of tonsillitis may include:
- Drooling due to difficult or painful swallowing
- Refusal to eat
- Unusual fussiness
When to see a doctor
Call your doctor if your child is experiencing:
- A sore throat that doesn't go away within 24 to 48 hours
- Painful or difficulty swallowing
- Extreme weakness, fatigue or fussiness
Get immediate care if your child has any of these symptoms:
- Difficulty breathing
- Extreme difficulty swallowing
- Drooling
Source:
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/tonsillitis/symptoms-causes/syc-20378479
