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Tonsillitis/ Sore Throat Symptoms Tonsillitis is a condition is which the tonsils, located at the back of the throat, become inflamed due to certain viruses and/or a bacterial infection. Treatment for tonsillitis largely depends upon the severity, duration and frequency of the infection. There are many signs and symptoms associated with tonsillitis, which should be evaluated by your doctor or healthcare professional at the onset to rule out the presence of certain other infections that cause similar symptoms. Signs and Symptoms of Tonsillitis
In addition to the above-mentioned, the following symptoms may also be present in younger children with tonsillitis:
What Causes Tonsillitis? Tonsillitis can be caused by a number of factors; the most common among them are the common cold virus and also certain viral infections. Group A streptococcus is most often the culprit in tonsillitis cases caused by bacteria. This bacteria is also known for causing strep throat, another painful, yet common throat infection. Due to their location, tonsils are among the first to come in contact with bacteria and viruses that enter the oral cavity even though it is believed that the tonsils are responsible for producing white blood cells which are known to fight off disease. School-aged children are the most commonly affected group to develop tonsillitis because they spend a majority of the day in close quarters with other children who may be carrying the germs that cause this particular infection. How is Tonsillitis Treated? Viral tonsillitis will can only be treated symptomatically, while tonsillitis caused by bacterial infection will be prescribed an antibiotic. If you suffer from recurrent infections, then surgery may be recommended as a last resort. Sore Throats Sore throats can have multiple etiologies; therefore, if symptoms persist, it is important to schedule an appointment with your doctor in order to ascertain the root cause. Signs and Symptoms of a Sore Throat The following is a list of symptoms associated with a sore throat. These symptoms include, but are not limited to, the following:
See your doctor immediately if you develop any of the following more serious symptoms:
Once the root cause of the sore throat has been ascertained, a method of treatment - whether by antibiotic or symptomatic treatment - will be determined. |
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