What is the treatment for tonsillitis and how can it be prevented,tonsillitis is an infection of the tonsils, which are located at the back of the throat. Their function is to trap germs and prevent them from entering the respiratory tract. They also produce antibodies to fight infection.
This inflammation can be caused by a viral or bacterial infection. It causes pain and swelling in the tonsils, and it is common in children.
Types of Tonsillitis
Tonsillitis is divided into three main types according to the severity and duration of the infection:
- Acute tonsillitis, which is the most common type, and its symptoms last from four days to two weeks.
- Recurrent tonsillitis, which occurs when the infection recurs several times a year.
- Chronic tonsillitis, whose symptoms persist for long periods and include persistent inflammation in the throat and swollen lymph nodes.
Symptoms of Tonsillitis
- Redness and swelling of the tonsils.
- Difficulty swallowing and breathing.
- Appearance of a white or yellow coating. Painful sores on the tonsils.
- Bad breath.
- Fever and chills.
- Ear pain.
- Headache.
- Loss of appetite.
What are the causes of tonsillitis
The main cause of tonsillitis is a viral or bacterial infection. Viral infections are the most common cause and include the viruses that cause colds and the flu. Bacterial infections are usually caused by streptococcal bacteria.
Environmental factors such as air pollution, dust, and dirt can increase the risk of tonsillitis. Children and adolescents are more susceptible to bacterial tonsillitis.
How to diagnose tonsillitis
A specialist will determine the cause of the inflammation by performing several tests and diagnostic procedures, including:
- A blood test to measure the white blood cell count.
- A physical examination.
- The doctor will take a swab from the tonsils to determine if the cause is viral or bacterial in order to prescribe the appropriate treatment.
Treatment of Tonsillitis
Treatment for tonsillitis depends on the cause, whether viral or bacterial. If the infection is viral, supportive treatments are prescribed to relieve symptoms, such as:
- Pain relievers.
- Fever reducers.
- Soothing lozenges.
- If the infection is bacterial, the doctor will prescribe:
- An antibiotic appropriate for the type of bacteria causing the infection.
- Pain relievers and fever reducers to alleviate symptoms.
- In cases of recurrent tonsillitis throughout the year, the doctor may resort to tonsillectomy.
Medications for treating tonsillitis
- Durisef syrup.
- Amoxil Forte syrup.
- Tusskan syrup.
- Ectonex nasal spray.
- Rami Zithro syrup.
- Maxilase medication.
- Xithrone tablets.
- Clavimox tablets.
Tips to Relieve Tonsillitis Symptoms
The following tips can help relieve symptoms:
- Eat soft, easy-to-swallow foods.
- Gargle with a saline solution to soothe the pain.
- Drink plenty of warm fluids.
- Get plenty of rest and sleep.
- Avoid smoking and secondhand smoke.
- Try home remedies containing natural ingredients or herbs to soothe a sore throat.
Herbs Beneficial for Tonsillitis
The following herbs can help relieve tonsillitis because they have anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties:
- Peppermint tea, which is effective in soothing inflammation and relieving coughs.
- Mix turmeric or fenugreek with warm water and use it as a gargle to fight inflammation.
- Ginger tea with lemon and honey.
- Cinnamon tea, which helps prevent bacterial growth and reduce swelling.
- Chamomile tea, known for its soothing and antioxidant properties.
Article Summary
Tonsillitis is a common condition affecting the glands at the back of the throat. This inflammation causes pain and swelling in the tonsils and may impair speech and swallowing.
Treatment depends on the cause, whether viral or bacterial. Viral infections are the most common cause and include the viruses that cause colds and the flu.