It is quite common to see people get confused tonsillitis for another Strep throat Infection, only to realize later. There is confusion finding tonsillitis and strep throats because the symptoms are similar and so the bacteria (Group A Streptococcus) that causes these two infections. There are other bacteria that cause tonsillitis but streptococcus causes tonsillitis too.

It takes an experienced eye to spot the differences between these two throat infections and reaching out to your ENT specialist would be a valid idea at any moment. However, being aware of the symptoms does no harm. In fact, it helps you explain the symptoms to your ENT doctor, better.

Tonsillitis and Strep Throat - Even though they do not pose any threats to the life of the person, these are infections that disrupt your day to day living. Often seen in children below 10 years, strep throat and tonsillitis cause so much pain. Not every case but tonsillitis may require surgery.

So, read on to understand the similarities, differences, causes, risk factors, Treatment for tonsillitis and strep throats.

The Similarities:

• The person may feel large, tender, and warm lymph nodes in the throat.
• The person might be running temperature, have sore throat, and feel difficulty in swallowing and talking.
• The similar symptoms include headaches, throat pain, and nausea followed by vomiting sensation.

The Differences -

• The physical appearance of the infection changes between tonsils and strep throat.
• Strep throat will cause red dots at the upper side of the mouth whereas tonsillitis cause redness and swelling in the throat.
• While body aches are common in strep throat, tonsils cause stiff neck that would be painful to turn around.

The Causes -Tonsils are triggered by various germs, bacteria and even viruses. Most cases of tonsillitis are triggered by viruses such as coronavirus, adenovirus, influenza, HIV and herpes. The next stands tonsillitis that are caused by bacteria and germs.

Strep throat in particular is caused by Group A Streptococcus bacteria and no virus or germs can cause it.

Risk factors -

Strep throat is one of the most common throat infections during the cold, rainy and winter seasons. Tonsillitis on the other hand can cause at any time if the child is exposed to the virus, germs or to the bacteria.

Treatment -

Oral antibiotic medication is enough for the strep throat. The ENT specialist may suggest the medication within the first 48 hours and it should be fine by then. Home remedies that include drinking clean and hot water, chewing mint leaves, and peppermint will provide the relief.

Treatment tonsillitis varies based on the type of cause. If they are caused by germs or bacteria, the ENT consultant will give you antibiotics and other medications to reduce the inflammation and spread.

For tonsillitis caused by viruses, the throat doctor may follow a different approach. Steroids may be prescribed to ease the breathing issue and inflammation. If that does not work, they may recommend surgery where the tonsils are removed. However, the latter method is employed only in extreme cases and on top of it, it is not a major surgery.

Preventive Measures -

Germs and bacteria are the major reasons behind both strep throat and tonsils. And, they are common in children. If you are a parent, ensure your kid is in the clean and tidy surroundings. Ensure the floor is cleaned before you put down him/her.

Bacteria and germs will be more active during the winter and rainy seasons. Give them warm water if the weather is cold outside. If the child is feeling uneasy and showing discomfort, check for the symptoms and see if there are any changes in the throat.

School-going kids need to be cautious. Educate them on cleanliness and on the importance of hygiene in their day to day life.

Takeaway -

Even though the strep throat and tonsils are not life-threatening, one cannot strike out the chances of them leading to scarlet fever, rheumatic fever, kidney inflammation, and other complications.

Take extra care of your child, seek help from the best ENT Hospital nearby. Staying indoors, eating healthy food, and taking medications as prescribed by the doctor will help your child recover faster