The tonsils, also known as palatine tonsils, are the soft tissue pair located at either side of the throat.

As part of the lymphatic system that helps fight infections, tonsils swell in response to infections. This is called tonsilitis.

Tonsillitis can occur at any age, but they are commonly observed in children. Tonsillitis is caused by various viruses and bacteria, and it is a contagious infection.

Tonsil infections are not a severe medical condition. However, the infection caused by the bacteria ‘streptococcal’ that causes strep throat is considered to be severe if left untreated.

Symptoms of Tonsilitis

The swelling size and some symptoms may vary from person to person based on the severity of the infection.

The common symptoms of tonsilitis include a very sore throat, extreme difficulty swallowing food, swollen lymph nodes, fever with chills, earache, headache, and stomach pain.

In cases of severe infections, the lymph nodes swell and become red. You can also observe yellow spots and the neck becomes stiff.

Toddlers who cannot express might indicate symptoms such as unusual fussiness, excessive drooling, and refusal to eat.

Types of Tonsilitis

There are different types of tonsil inflammations based on the causes, tenure, appearance, and location of the infection.

● Acute Tonsilitis: Caused by a bacteria or virus, the infection leads to swelling and sore throat. The tonsil might also exudate a white coating.

● Chronic Tonsilitis: This is nothing but repeated episodes of acute tonsillitis. If the infection is persistent, consult your ENT doctor for better medical care.

These are common tonsil conditions. They can be treated at the ENT hospital. There are other inflammations that need comprehensive treatment at the earliest.

● Strep Throat: Tonsillitis caused by strep throat requires immediate medical attention. The child might experience fever with chills and might find it extremely difficult to swallow food.

● Acute Mononucleosis: The infection is caused by the virus called ‘Epstein-Barr virus’ and causes rash, fatigue, and sore throat.

● Tonsil Stones: Also known as tonsilloliths, this infection leads to tonsil stones as a result of debris that’s trapped inside the tissue.

● Peritonsillar Abscess: This is a condition where pockets of pus are formed next to the tonsils. If you observe this infection, get help from an ENT specialist and drain the abscesses.

● Hypertrophic Tonsils: Also known as the enlarged tonsils, the infection can affect the flow of air, food by shrinking the airway and food pipe. Disturbed sleep, snoring, and sleep apnea are common symptoms of this condition.

When to See the Doctor?

Tonsillitis is treated by an ENT specialist. You should seek immediate medical help if your child is…

● Running a fever higher than 100° F

● Drooling and refusing to eat

● Experiencing sleeplessness or sleep disturbances

● Has a sore throat that does not go away for more than 2 days

Diagnosis for Tonsilitis

Your ENT doctor thoroughly examines the tonsils and takes swabs of the throat to run throat culture.

The throat specialist might also prescribe a complete blood count test to identify the bacteria or virus.

Treatment for Tonsilitis

Upon determining the presence of tonsilitis, the doctor proceeds with the treatment options based on the severity of the infection.

Usually, a mild case of tonsillitis does not need treatment. Particularly, if it is caused by cold, it goes away in a day or two.

The severe cases of tonsilitis require treatment that includes antibiotics. The ENT specialist might also suggest tonsillectomy, a procedure conducted to remove the tonsils.

Should Tonsils Be Removed in Children?

Removing tonsils completely depends on the number of infections in a year and the frequency of them.

If a child is experiencing tonsil-related infections more than 7 times a year or 5 times a year for 2 consecutive years, it is safe to say the tonsils can be removed. However, this is a decision made by the doctor upon reviewing your child’s medical history.

Risk Factors of Tonsilitis

The risk factors include young age and frequent exposure to germs. School children are susceptible to infections due to low immunity responses.

Also, if a child is infected with tonsillitis in the class, there is an increased chance of infection across children.

P reventing Tonsilitis

Staying away from children with tonsil infections and practicing good personal hygiene are the two important preventive measures for tonsillitis.

Teach your children to wash their hands frequently, and not to touch their face and nose with their hands.

If your child is suffering from frequent strep throat or tonsilitis, here are a few frequently asked questions that might help you understand better.

1. What are the foods to avoid by children with tonsillitis?

Foods that are cold, courses, crunchy, and hard should be avoided. Give them a lot of fluids, smooth, and warm foods.

2. What are the home remedies for tonsillitis?

Gargle with warm and saltwater. It helps prevent the infection from spreading. Also, make your children chew on lozenges with benzocaine. However, do not give this medication to a child less than 2 years.

3. How long does it take to get rid of tonsillitis?

It depends on whether the infection is mild or severe. Usually, tonsillitis goes away after 4 or 5 days. Give your child complete rest and foods mentioned above.