Download Tonsillitis

Tonsillitis
What is Tonsillitis?
Tonsillitis is an inflammation of the tonsils (lymph glands located at the back of the
throat). It is usually caused by bacterial (usually streptococcal) or viral infection of the
tonsils.
Causes
 Usually caused by a virus
 Sometimes caused by same bacteria as sore
throat
 In rare cases it is caused by a fungus or parasite
Symptoms
 Throat pain, either mild or severe.
 Swallowing with difficulty.
 Chills and fever as high as 104° F (40° C) or
more.
 Swollen lymph glands on either side of the jaw.
 Headache.
 Ear pain.
 Cough (sometimes).
 Vomiting (sometimes).
 Refusal to eat in a very young child.
Prevention
 Wash his or her hands thoroughly and frequently, especially after using the toilet
and before eating
 Avoid sharing food, drinking glasses or utensils
 Avoid exposure to people with upper-respiratory infections.
Treatment
 Tonsillitis usually goes away on its own.
 Treatment usually aimed at making you feel better.
 Gargle and spit salt water may ease throat
 Drink warm tea
 Tonsillectomy
 Take over-the-counter pain medicine
 Use other home treatments
 Do not give aspirin to anyone age 20 or younger
If you have any questions or concerns, do not hesitate to call your physician.