Tonsillitis

Tonsillitis results from inflamed tonsils, leading to sore throat, difficulty swallowing, and fever. It can affect children and adults, with the tonsils appearing red and swollen, often covered in small yellow patches.

Common Symptoms of Tonsillitis

• Red, swollen tonsils with white or yellow patches
• Fever
• Sore throat
• Difficulty swallowing
• Bad breath
• Tender lymph nodes or glands
• Pain in the head, neck, or stomach
• Scratchy voice

If you or your child are experiencing these symptoms, it’s essential to seek medical advice to determine a cause and appropriate treatment.

Only a medical professional can definitively identify tonsillitis, but recognizing its symptoms is the first step to getting treatment. Especially when dealing with children or the nonverbal, it may be difficult for them to describe their symptoms accurately. Watch for unusual drooling, loss of appetite, or increased fussiness as indicators of a possible issue.

Tonsillitis is most commonly caused by the same viruses that cause the common cold and seasonal flu. However, bacterial infections, like strep throat, may sometimes be to blame. Identifying the cause is crucial for determining the appropriate course of treatment.

Tonsillitis treatments vary depending on whether the infection is viral or bacterial. Consulting with our expert ENT specialists is vital to quickly determining a cause and appropriate treatment plan.

Treatment Options

• Bacterial Tonsillitis: For bacterial tonsillitis, antibiotics are typically used to fight the infection.

• Viral Tonsillitis: Viral infections typically involve pain relievers, fluids, and rest to alleviate symptoms.

For those suffering recurrent cases of tonsillitis, a surgical procedure called a tonsillectomy may be recommended to remove the tonsils. If necessary, your Pinnacle ENT specialist will guide you through the procedure, preparation, and aftercare to ensure an optimal recovery.