ACUTE TONSILLITIS AND ITS MANAGEMENT
Acute tonsillitis refers to a sudden inflammation or infection of the tonsils, which are the lymphoid tissues located at the back of the throat. This condition typically manifests as a painful, sore throat accompanied by other symptoms like fever.
CAUSES
VIRAL INFECTIONS
- Common cold viruses
- Influenza
- Epstein-Barr virus (often leading to infectious mononucleosis)
BACTERIAL INFECTIONS
- Streptococcus pyogenes (most common)
- Staphylococcus aureus
- Haemophilus influenzae
BONE REDUCTION
These may include allergens, irritants, and weakened immune systems.
CLINICAL PRESENTATION (SYMPTOMS)
SEVERE SORE THROAT
Often the primary complaint, making swallowing difficult and painful.
FEVER AND CHILLS
A sudden rise in body temperature with chills is common.
MALAISE AND FATIGUE
A general feeling of being unwell.
HEADACHE
General discomfort and headache may accompany.
SWOLLEN TONSILS
Visible swelling, often with a white or yellow coating.
SWOLLEN LYMPH NODES
Particularly in the neck area.
DIAGNOSTIC MEASURES
PHYSICAL EXAMINATION
Dr Sandeep and his team will typically inspect the throat, mouth, and neck.
THROAT SWAB CULTURE
Dr Sandeep and his team may take a throat swab to identify the bacteria’s causing the tonsil infection and the most appropriate antibiotic to treat it.
TOTAL BLOOD COUNT (TBC)
To check for infection markers and rule out other conditions.
RAPID ANTIGEN TEST
Quick test to detect streptococcal bacteria.
TREATMENT MODALITIES
ANTIBIOTICS
If bacterial in origin, antibiotics such as penicillin or amoxicillin are prescribed.
SYMPTOMATIC RELIEF
Over-the-counter analgesics like paracetamol for pain and fever.
Lozenges and throat sprays may offer temporary relief.
HYDRATION AND NUTRITION
Adequate fluid intake is crucial. Soft foods to lessen irritation during swallowing.
REST
Adequate sleep and rest are essential for rapid recovery.
HOSPITAL ADMISSION
In severe cases when the fever is very high and patient is unable to swallow at all, the patient may need to be admitted for antibiotics, pain killers and fluids to be administered through the veins.
Complications and Follow-up
Untreated or inadequately treated acute tonsillitis can lead to complications like:
- Peritonsillar abscess
- Rheumatic fever
- Otitis media (middle ear infection)
Regular follow-ups may be scheduled to ensure complete resolution of the infection and to monitor for any potential complications.
TAKE IMMEDIATE ACTION ON ACUTE TONSILLITIS: SECURE YOUR WELL-BEING!
Experiencing severe sore throat, fever, or swollen tonsils? Acute tonsillitis can cause significant discomfort and may affect your ability to eat and speak, often leading to more serious conditions if not treated promptly.
Prompt intervention is key to recovery and preventing complications such as rheumatic fever or kidney inflammation.
Don’t delay your health needs. Act swiftly to tackle the pain and inconvenience of acute tonsillitis.
Reach out to Dr Sandeep for urgent care and effective treatment solutions. Book your urgent consultation to get back to health.
