Tonsillitis Symptoms and Treatment
Tonsillitis is the swelling of the tonsils at the back of the throat. Tonsillitis typically develops as part of another illness, such as strep throat, when the tonsils become inflamed. The tonsils are lymph nodes that help to fend off bacteria to prevent infection, but sometimes they become overwhelmed by a bacterial or viral infection, causing them to swell.
Tonsillitis Symptoms
While anyone can develop tonsillitis, the condition is most common in children who have a cold or strep throat. Some common symptoms associated with tonsillitis include:
- Sore throat lasting more than 48 hours
- Difficulty swallowing
- Tenderness in the throat
- Loss of voice
- Earache
- Headache
- Fever
If you or your child experiences any combination of these symptoms, consider visiting a nearby medical clinic. Tonsillitis is not only painful but it can also cause breathing problems or other serious complications.
Suggested Treatments
The treatment prescribed for tonsillitis will depend upon the severity of the symptoms and your medical history. Some treatments that your doctor may suggest are:
- Antibiotics
- Over the counter medications
- Tonsillectomy – removal of the tonsils (in extreme or repeat cases)
- Salt water gargle or warm liquids
A health care professional can perform an examination to prescribe the best treatment for your condition. If you suspect that you or a family member has tonsillitis, do not hesitate to visit a medical clinic near you for a proper diagnosis and treatment.
Contact Us
To schedule an appointment or to speak with an experienced medical professional about your condition, do not hesitate to contact the 24-hour Bellaire Emergency Center at 713-669-9900.
