Tonsillitis
Most children who are between the ages of preschool and mid-teenage years are affected by Tonsillitis
Tonsillitis
Most children who are between the ages of preschool and mid-teenage years are affected by Tonsillitis
What is Tonsillitis?
Tonsillitis refers to inflammation of the tonsils. There are two oval-shaped tissue pads at the back end of the throat that form the tonsils. One tonsil is on each side. Tonsillitis can be characterized by swollen tonsils and sore throats, as well as difficulty swallowing and tender lymph nodes along the sides of your neck.
Symptoms of Tonsillitis
Most children who are between the ages of preschool and mid-teenage years are affected by Tonsillitis. Tonsillitis can be characterized by the following symptoms:
- Red, swollen tonsils
- Tonsils may have a yellow or white coating or patches
- Sore throat
- It can be difficult or painful to swallow
- Fever
- Lymph nodes (larger, tender glands) in the neck
- A muffled, throaty, or scratchy voice
- Bad breath
- Stomach ache
- Stiff neck or neck pain
- Headache
Tonsillitis can be a problem in children younger than five who have trouble expressing their feelings.
- Drooling due to painful swallowing
- Refusal To Eat
- Unusual fussiness
Causes of Tonsillitis
Common viruses are the most common cause of Tonsillitis, but bacteria can also be a factor.
Tonsillitis is caused by Streptococcus Pyogenes (group B streptococcus), which is the same bacterium that causes strep. Tonsillitis can also be caused by other bacteria and strains of strep.
Tonsils are the first line of defense for your immune system against viruses and bacteria that may enter your mouth. The tonsils may be more susceptible to inflammation and infection because of this function. The immune system function of the tonsils declines after puberty, which may explain the occasional cases of tonsillitis in adults.
