Tonsillitis in children is an inflammation of the tonsils located at the back of the throat, responsible for fighting microbes and protecting the body, causing pain and discomfort for the child.
The inflammation causes difficulty swallowing, sore throat, and a high fever, affecting the child's daily activities. Although the condition is mild, recurrent infection and neglect of treatment can lead to serious complications.
What is Tonsillitis in Children
Tonsillitis in children is a condition that occurs as a result of a bacterial or viral infection of the tonsils, leading to swelling and a sore throat, along with difficulty swallowing.
The tonsils are two lymph nodes located on either side of the throat and play a major role in the body's immunity and defense against germs, especially in childhood.
Symptoms of Tonsillitis in Children
Symptoms of tonsillitis in children include:
- Difficulty swallowing.
- High fever.
- Severe throat pain.
- Headache and loss of appetite.
- Enlarged lymph nodes in the neck.
- Feeling tired and having body aches.
- Swelling and reddening of the tonsils with pus.
Causes of Tonsillitis in Children
Tonsillitis in children occurs due to several causes, such as:
- Colds and flu.
- Bacterial infections.
- Viral infections.
- Weakened immune system.
- Repeated exposure to crowded places.
- Sharing personal items with others.
Complications of Tonsillitis in Children
Some of the following complications may occur:
- Recurrent tonsillitis.
- Formation of an abscess around the tonsils.
- Rheumatic fever.
- Infection spreading to the middle ear.
- Difficulty breathing during sleep.
How is tonsillitis diagnosed in children
The doctor relies on a clinical examination of the child, noting redness or swelling of the tonsils and the presence of purulent secretions.
The doctor will also examine the lymph nodes in the neck and check the temperature. In some cases, a throat swab and blood test may be requested to confirm the cause of the infection and provide appropriate treatment.
What are the methods for treating tonsillitis in children
Treatment for tonsillitis in children depends on the severity and cause of the condition. In mild cases, painkillers and antipyretics are used, along with rest and warm fluids.
However, if the infection is severe, the doctor will prescribe an appropriate antibiotic. If the infection recurs several times or complications occur, the doctor may resort to surgically removing the tonsils.
Medications Used to Treat Tonsillitis
Painkillers, antipyretics, or antibiotics are used under medical supervision:
- Aglimentin.
- Ibuprofen.
- Moxicillin.
- Clavimox.
- Paracetamol.
How to Prevent Tonsillitis in Children
Children should follow the following guidelines to prevent tonsillitis:
- Drink water regularly.
- Well-ventilated rooms.
- Strengthen the immune system.
- Wash your hands frequently.
- Stay away from infected people.
- Avoid sharing personal items.
How can you differentiate between strep throat and tonsillitis in children
Tonsillitis in children differs from strep throat in the following symptoms:
Tonsillitis
- Enlarged lymph nodes in the neck.
- Pus or white spots on the tonsils.
- Accompanied by difficulty swallowing and bad breath.
- Enlarged and reddened tonsils on both sides of the throat.
Throat inflammation
- Pain throughout the throat.
- No obvious swelling in the neck.
- The infection is less severe than tonsillitis.
- It is accompanied by symptoms such as coughing and a runny nose.
When is tonsillitis dangerous for a child
Tonsillitis is dangerous and requires a visit to the doctor in the following cases:
- Swelling appears in the neck.
- The sore throat lasts for more than a week.
- Difficulty swallowing and severe throat pain.
- The infection recurs more than six times a year.
- Difficulty breathing and snoring during sleep.
- A high fever that doesn't respond to medication.
Summary of Tonsillitis in Children
Tonsillitis in children is an infection of the tonsils, often caused by bacteria or a virus. This infection causes sore throat, difficulty swallowing, and fever.
Treatment of this infection is with painkillers, antipyretics, and antibiotics. In severe cases, the tonsils may be removed if the infection recurs.