Tonsillitis is an infectious disease that causes inflammation in the tonsils, which are structures present at the back of the throat and whose function is to defend the body against bacterial and viral infections.
When the immune system is more compromised, due to the use of medications or the existence of diseases, it is possible for viruses or bacteria to cause inflammation of the tonsils, leading to symptoms such as sore throat, difficulty swallowing and fever.
The treatment of tonsillitis, also called tonsillitis or tonsillitis, is carried out by an otorhinolaryngologist, and varies depending on its cause, and oral hydration, use of anti-inflammatory medications or antibiotics to combat bacteria may be indicated.
Tonsillitis symptoms
The main symptoms of tonsillitis are:
- Sore throat that lasts more than 2 days;
- Pain or difficulty swallowing;
- Red and swollen throat;
- Fever and chills;
- Irritant dry cough;
- Headache or neck pain;
- Loss of appetite;
- Malaise and bad breath;
- Lumps in the neck or jaw;
- Voice change;
- Ear pain, in some cases.
When tonsillitis is caused by bacteria, white dots of pus may still be observed in the throat, making it important to be evaluated by an otolaryngologist so that antibiotic treatment can be started. Know how to identify all the symptoms of tonsillitis.
How to confirm the diagnosis
The diagnosis of tonsillitis is made by an otorhinolaryngologist or general practitioner based on the assessment of symptoms and observation of the throat.
If you have symptoms of tonsillitis, consult an otorhinolaryngologist in the nearest region:
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Possible causes
Tonsillitis is caused by infections by viruses or bacteria, which lead to inflammation of the tonsils, resulting in symptoms.
These microorganisms can be transmitted through inhalation of droplets released into the air when coughing or sneezing, and can also be transmitted through kissing and contact with contaminated objects.
Although uncommon, tonsillitis can still occur as a result of a fungal infection, and is more likely to occur in people with a more compromised immune system.
Types of tonsillitis
Tonsillitis can be classified into several types:
1. Acute tonsillitis
Acute tonsillitis is one in which symptoms last between 3 and 5 days, improving even without specific treatment.
2. Chronic tonsillitis
Chronic tonsillitis is one in which the symptoms of tonsillitis are longer lasting and appear recurrently, that is, the person develops tonsillitis with some frequency, and it is important that the doctor is consulted so that more specific treatment can be carried out, which may involve removal of the tonsils to prevent recurrence of inflammation.
3. Bacterial tonsillitis
Bacterial tonsillitis is inflammation of the tonsils caused by bacteria, mainly Streptococcus pyogenes. Learn more about bacterial tonsillitis.
However, it can also be caused by bacteria such as Streptococcus pyogenes, Streptococcus pneumoniae, Staphylococcus aureus or Haemophilus influenza.
Additionally, bacterial tonsillitis can also be caused by syphilis, gonorrhea, or chlamydia.
4. Viral tonsillitis
Viral tonsillitis occurs due to infection by viruses, mainly adenovirus, rhinovirus, influenza, respiratory syncytial virus and coronavirus. See more about viral tonsillitis.
Furthermore, other viral diseases can cause tonsillitis, such as infectious mononucleosis, cytomegalovirus, rubella, hepatitis A or HIV, for example.
How the treatment is carried out
The treatment of tonsillitis must be carried out under the guidance of an otorhinolaryngologist and varies according to its cause.
In the case of viral tonsillitis, the doctor may recommend rest, oral hydration and the use of anti-inflammatory medicines, such as ibuprofen or paracetamol, for example, to reduce pain in the throat and reduce fever.
Additionally, gargling with warm salt water can help alleviate symptoms. Check out other natural ways to relieve tonsillitis.
In the case of bacterial tonsillitis, treatment is with antibiotic medicines, generally from the penicillin class, such as amoxicillin. However, in the case of allergy to penicillins, the doctor may recommend the use of azithromycin or cephalosporins, for example.
In more serious cases, when tonsillitis is recurrent, the doctor may recommend surgery to remove the tonsils.
Natural Treatment Options
Drinking plenty of water, increasing your consumption of foods rich in vitamin C and giving preference to liquid or pasty foods also helps to better control the disease.
Furthermore, a good home treatment for tonsillitis is to gargle with warm water and salt, twice a day, as salt is antibacterial and can help in the clinical treatment of the disease. Check out some home remedies for tonsillitis.
How to prevent
To prevent tonsillitis, it is recommended:
- Avoid staying indoors or with many people and little air circulation for a long time, such as shopping malls or gyms;
- Avoid contact with people who have the flu or colds;
- Apply alcohol gel in hands frequently;
- Avoid touching surfaces and putting your hands over your eyes, mouth or nose;
- Avoid sharing personal objects that may be in contact with droplets of saliva or respiratory secretions, such as cutlery, glasses and toothbrushes;
- Always cover your nose and mouth when coughing or sneezingusing a disposable tissue or clothing.
In addition, you should wash your hands regularly, using water and neutral soap, for at least 20 seconds before rinsing, in order to prevent tonsillitis and prevent the transmission of the disease.
