Summary about Disease
Tonsillitis is an inflammation of the tonsils, two oval-shaped pads of tissue at the back of the throat — one tonsil on each side. Signs and symptoms of tonsillitis include swollen tonsils, sore throat, difficulty swallowing and tender lymph nodes on the sides of the neck. Most cases of tonsillitis are caused by infection with a common virus, but bacterial infections also can cause tonsillitis. Because appropriate treatment for tonsillitis depends on the cause, it's important to get a prompt and accurate diagnosis. Surgery to remove tonsils, once a common procedure to treat tonsillitis, is usually performed only when tonsillitis occurs frequently, doesn't respond to other treatments or causes serious complications.
Symptoms
Red, swollen tonsils
White or yellow coating or patches on the tonsils
Sore throat
Difficulty swallowing
Pain when swallowing
Fever
Enlarged, tender lymph nodes in the neck
Scratchy voice
Bad breath
Stomachache, particularly in younger children
Headache
Causes
Tonsillitis is most often caused by common viruses, but bacterial infections can also be responsible. The most common bacterial cause of tonsillitis is Streptococcus pyogenes (group A streptococcus), the bacterium that causes strep throat. Other strains of streptococcus or other bacteria also may cause tonsillitis.
Medicine Used
Viral Tonsillitis: Treatment focuses on relieving symptoms. This includes rest, fluids, pain relievers (acetaminophen or ibuprofen), and gargling with warm salt water. Antibiotics are ineffective against viruses.
Bacterial Tonsillitis (e.g., Strep Throat): Antibiotics are prescribed. Common antibiotics include penicillin or amoxicillin. For those allergic to penicillin, alternatives like azithromycin or clindamycin may be used. It is crucial to complete the entire course of antibiotics to prevent complications like rheumatic fever.
Is Communicable
Yes, tonsillitis is communicable. It can spread through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks. Close contact with infected individuals increases the risk of transmission.
Precautions
Handwashing: Frequent and thorough handwashing with soap and water, especially after coughing or sneezing.
Avoid Sharing: Don't share utensils, cups, or food with others, especially if you are sick.
Cover Coughs and Sneezes: Use a tissue or your elbow to cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing.
Stay Home: If you are sick, stay home from work or school to avoid spreading the infection.
Avoid Close Contact: Limit close contact with others when you have tonsillitis.
How long does an outbreak last?
Viral Tonsillitis: Symptoms typically last 7-10 days.
Bacterial Tonsillitis (Strep Throat): With antibiotic treatment, symptoms usually improve within 24-48 hours. However, it's essential to complete the full course of antibiotics, which usually lasts around 10 days. Without treatment, strep throat can last longer and lead to complications.
How is it diagnosed?
Physical Exam: A doctor will examine the throat, looking for redness, swelling, and white or yellow patches on the tonsils. They will also check for enlarged and tender lymph nodes in the neck.
Throat Culture: A swab is taken from the back of the throat and tested to determine if strep throat is present. Results can take 24-48 hours.
Rapid Strep Test: This test can detect strep throat in minutes, but it's not as accurate as a throat culture and may need to be confirmed with a culture.
Timeline of Symptoms
The timeline can vary depending on the cause (viral vs. bacterial) and the individual. Here's a general guideline:
Incubation Period: Varies depending on the causative agent, usually 2-5 days after exposure.
Day 1-2: Initial symptoms may include a mild sore throat, fatigue, and mild fever.
Day 3-5: Sore throat worsens, difficulty swallowing increases, fever may rise, and tonsils become visibly red and swollen. White or yellow patches may appear.
Day 5-7: Symptoms may peak. If bacterial tonsillitis, antibiotics begin to take effect within 24-48 hours.
Day 7-10 (Viral) / Day 7 onwards (Bacterial - with antibiotics): Gradual improvement in symptoms.
Important Considerations
Recurrent Tonsillitis: Frequent episodes of tonsillitis may warrant consideration of tonsillectomy (surgical removal of the tonsils).
Complications: Untreated bacterial tonsillitis can lead to serious complications such as rheumatic fever (which can damage the heart valves), kidney inflammation (glomerulonephritis), and peritonsillar abscess (a collection of pus behind the tonsil).
Hydration: Staying well-hydrated is crucial, especially when swallowing is painful.
Pain Management: Over-the-counter pain relievers and throat lozenges can help ease discomfort.
When to See a Doctor: Seek medical attention if you have a severe sore throat, difficulty breathing or swallowing, a high fever, or if symptoms don't improve after a few days.