Do you suffer with tonsillitis?

What are tonsils?

Tonsils are a part of the immune system which help the body to fight infections. In some cases, these tonsils itself can get infected and cause tonsillitis. Depending on how frequently the tonsils are getting infected, it can be referred to as recurrent tonsillitis or chronic tonsillitis. One episode of severe throat pain with foul breath, difficulty in swallowing and in some cases, enlarged lymph nodes, is called acute tonsillitis. In individuals, this acute tonsillitis can progress to the collection of pus around tonsils to form a peritonsillar abscess or Quinsy.

What are the causes of acute tonsillitis?

Acute tonsillitis, in most cases, can be due to viral infection or bacterial infection. In infectious mononucleosis it can because by Ebstein bar virus and is known as glandular fever. In glandular fever, along with the lymph nodes, your spleen may become enlarged. It is essential to avoid any contact sport during recovery for 4 to 6 weeks after Glandular fever.

When should you seek help from your GP or go to A&E?

The good news is most of the cases of acute tonsillitis get better with temperature control and hydration. Following this, if you are unable to eat and drink and get on top of your pain, you need to seek help by either attending GP practice, senior pharmacist or attending A&E. In cases in which the infection persist, they will need IV antibiotics and hydration with hospital admission. Whereas a peritonsillar abscess may need pus drainage.

When should I seek help from ENT surgeon?

ENT specialist help should be sought if you have recurrent tonsillitis which is starting to have an impact on your quality of life by missing school or work. If you have large asymmetrical tonsils with neck nodes, you need to seek advice as well.

What are the complications of tonsillitis?

Recurrent tonsillitis can lead to recurrent middle ear infections. It can lead to enlargement of tonsils in some cases leading to obstructive sleep apnoea. An episode of acute tonsillitis may, in some cases, progress to Quinsy or tonsil abscess, which can affect the neck. Sometimes acute tonsillitis left untreated can lead to rheumatic fever which is inflammation of joints and can cause inflammation of the filtration system of your kidneys.

What primary measures should I take when I get acute tonsillitis?

It is essential to keep your hydration by drinking plenty of fluids, take adequate rest and to take paracetamol or ibuprofen for pain relief. To avoid spreading the infection, you should avoid attending public places and sending your child to school if they are ill. To prevent spreading the virus via coughing or sneezing, please use a tissue and dispose of the tissue adequately. It is also vital to wash your hands before eating, going to the toilet and after disposing of tissue after using it for coughing and sneezing.

Helping Patients with Specialist Expertise And Kindness

Mr Gaurav Kumar

Consultant Ear Nose Throat Surgeon

Book Appointment Online

Online Booking

079494914140

info@entsurgeonclinic.co.uk

Disclaimer: For general information only, always seek medical advice from your treating consultant.

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