Tonsils are the oval soft tissue masses that are located on each side of the back of your throat. When tonsils get infected by viruses or bacteria it results in inflammation. This condition is called tonsillitis.
To better understand what tonsillitis is, you need to know what tonsils are and their functions. Tonsils may look small as they’re only a size of a pea, however, these oval bumps are part of the immune system.
The tonsils act as the first-line defence mechanism against illness. They filter the viruses and bacteria that enter through your mouth and nose. The invaders are trapped by the tonsils preventing them from entering the airways and slipping into the lungs. Aside from that, tonsils produce antibodies and white blood cells that help your body fight infection.
The tonsils are exposed to germs, making them vulnerable to infection. Once infected, tonsils become swollen and inflamed. That’s why tonsillitis occurs.
Tonsillitis – Nature, Causes, Symptoms
Tonsillitis may start with common colds. The virus that caused you sneezing and coughing may be the same reason you’re having tonsillitis.
Another usual culprit is the bacteria that cause strep throat.
Smoking can be another cause. Smoking decreases the immunity of the white blood cells produced by tonsils.
The most common symptom is redness of the tonsils. There is an increased blood flow to the affected area and the fluid build-up usually results in swelling.
Having tonsillitis is no fun. Your throat usually hurts, making it painful to swallow food or even drink. You may notice poor appetite if your child is infected.
Here are other possible symptoms of tonsillitis:
- White or yellow spots around the tonsils
- Headache
- Fever and chills
- A hoarse, scratchy voice
- Bad breath
- Earaches
There are 3 types of tonsillitis:
1. Acute
Symptoms last around 10 days or less. This type can be eliminated with home treatments. In some cases, antibiotics may be required.
2. Chronic
Symptoms continue longer than 10 days. At times, you may experience a stiff neck.
This type of tonsillitis may build up dead cells and saliva and eventually harden into small stones. These may gradually disappear on their own. However, there are instances that they may need to be removed by your doctor.
3. Recurrent
If your tonsillitis occurs at least 5 to 7 times in a year, most likely it is recurrent. When your immune system is
Sometimes the swelling of the tonsils can be observable. Tonsillitis can be dangerous if the tonsils swell so much that they restrict breathing.
The swelling of the tonsils can be too much that it can hinder airflow that causes trouble in breathing. If this happens, consult your doctor immediately.
Things to do if you have tonsillitis
Several remedies can effectively ease throat pain from tonsillitis. Here are the things you can do at home to reduce the symptoms and get relief:
- Salt Water Gargle. Get a teaspoon of salt mix in a glass of warm water. Gargle the mixture regularly to soothe your throat. The bacterial infection is decreased by the nature of the salt. Take note this may not be suitable for small children, as they tend to swallow the gargle.
- Drink plenty of fluids. Water always works wonders.
- Eating ginger. It has an anti-inflammatory property that can give you relief. You can also make ginger tea by adding chopped ginger to a cup of water. Bring to a boil. Let it cool for a few minutes. You may add lemon and honey.
- Having frozen foods can be highly effective in treating the swelling that comes with tonsillitis. Popsicles, ice cream and frozen drinks are helpful to children who can’t use other home remedies safely. Adults can also suck on ice chips.
- Avoid smoking.
- Give your body and voice a good rest.
- Eat soft foods, especially if swallowing hurts.
Why consult an online doctor for tonsillitis
In many cases, tonsillitis can be resolved quickly.
However, it is often difficult to differentiate bacterial tonsillitis from viral. To treat bacterial tonsillitis that requires antibiotics, you should consult your doctor. When symptoms don’t improve and if you’re experiencing a severe case, it is best to visit a walk-in clinic Thunder Bay.
If you’re hesitant to go out due to the threat of COVID-19, you can still seek medical care without leaving your home. Thanks to modern technology, you can have the consultation online through a computer, tablet or smartphone.
Getting a treatment can be easy. The doctors can take a look at your throat and diagnose it properly. They can give advice and prescribe effective medication immediately. Don’t afraid to consult online doctor because they will surely want to be well.
Make sure to follow your doctor’s instructions. Take all the prescribed medication. You may start feeling better a day or so and might think not to complete the days in taking the antibiotics. Your infection may come back.
Tonsillitis can be contagious. Don’t panic, the spread can be prevented. Avoid exposure and contact with other people. If you are infected, do not share your utensils.
In general, it is best to ensure the practice of good hygiene habits. Practice sneezing and coughing etiquettes. Make sure you dispose of the tissue properly. Washing your hands is always helpful in sanitation.
