Tonsillitis: Causes, Symptoms and Treatments. Surgery is also available.

Tonsillitis Medications

If tonsillitis is caused by a bacterial infection, your doctor will prescribe specific antibacterials. Most commonly, penicillin is taken orally for 10 days to treat tonsillitis caused group A streptococcus. If your child has an allergy to penicillin, your doctor will prescribe a different antibiotic. (7)

Antibiotics

Even if the symptoms of your child have completely disappeared, you must continue to take antibiotics until they are finished. If you don’t take the prescribed medication, the infection can worsen or spread. If your child doesn’t finish the entire course of antibiotics, rheumatic disease and kidney inflammation may occur. If you forget to administer a dose, consult your doctor or pharmacy.

Antipyretics

Use acetaminophen or ibuprofen to reduce throat pain and fever. Low fevers do not require treatment.

Antiallergics

Doctors also recommend ant allergic for throat irritation to prevent triggers by allergens like dust and smoke. Cetirizine (ant allergic) is a good sleep aid for your child.

Surgery (Tonsillectomy).

A tonsillectomy involves removing the two glands located at the back part of the throat. If you have frequent tonsillitis, a tonsillectomy may be necessary. (8)

The tonsils contain white blood cells that can fight infection. However, they may also become infected. Tonsil infections can cause tonsils to swell, causing a sore or painful throat. Other symptoms include a high fever, difficulty sleeping or swallowing, and swollen lymph glands. Your tonsils may have a yellow or whitish coating, and your throat could be reddened.

Sometimes the swelling will subside by itself. Sometimes (in chronic or recurrent cases), a tonsillectomy may be necessary. If your tonsillitis causes breathing problems like sleep apnea, or heavy snoring, you can have a tonsillectomy.

Does anyone need a tonsillectomy

Children are more susceptible to tonsillitis, and tonsillectomies in children than adults. Anyone can have problems with their tonsils.

A tonsillectomy is not necessary if you have had only one episode of tonsillitis. Tonsillectomy is a common treatment for people who suffer from tonsillitis and strep. Consult your physician if you have had at least 7 cases of tonsillitis in the past year (or 5 or more each of the previous two years). You may also need a tonsillectomy if you develop complications from the infection.

Procedure

There are many ways to remove the tonsils. One of the most popular methods is cold knife dissection. In this case, a scalpel will be used to remove the tonsils. Another common tonsillectomy method is cauterization. Ultrasonic vibrations (sound waves) can be used to perform tonsillectomy procedures. The tonsillectomy procedure usually takes around a half-hour.

The general anesthetic you receive will ensure that you are asleep, regardless of the surgical technique your doctor uses. You won’t feel any discomfort or pain during the surgery. After the tonsillectomy, you will be in a recovery area. As soon as you awaken, your blood pressure and heartbeat will be measured. Most people are able to go home on the same day after a successful tonsillectomy.

Recovery

Some patients experience pain during the recovery phase after a tonsillectomy. It is normal to have a sore throat after surgery. You may also feel pain in your jaw, neck, or ears. Rest is very important after surgery, particularly in the first 2 to 3 days.

Drink water or eat ice pops to stay hydrated. Warm, clear broths and applesauce are the best for early recovery. After a couple of days, soft foods like oatmeal, ice-cream, pudding and other soft food can be added.

Pain medication may help you feel better during your recovery. Take your medications exactly as directed by your doctor. Contact your doctor immediately if you have a fever or bleeding following a tonsillectomy. Snoring is expected and normal for the first 2 weeks following the procedure. If you have breathing problems after two weeks, contact your surgeon.

Most people are able to return to school or work within two weeks after a tonsillectomy. Most people who have tonsillectomy experience fewer future throat infection.