What Is Tonsillitis?

What Is Tonsillitis? Tonsillitis is an inflammation of the tonsils, which are two masses of tissue at the back of your throat. It’s commonly caused by viral or bacterial infections. When you have tonsillitis, your tonsils may appear swollen and red, and swallowing might become painful. ¹

Causes of Tonsillitis

Tonsillitis can be caused by either viruses or bacteria. The most common bacterial cause is the Streptococcus species.

Viral Causes

The majority of tonsillitis cases stem from viral infections. Examples of viruses that can cause tonsillitis include:

• Rhinovirus: Often responsible for the common cold.
• Adenovirus: This virus can cause symptoms similar to a cold but might also lead to pink eye.
• Epstein-Barr virus: Known for causing mononucleosis, or the “kissing disease.”

Bacterial Causes

Although less common than viral causes, bacterial infections can also lead to tonsillitis. The primary culprit here is:

• Streptococcus pyogenes: This is the bacteria responsible for strep throat. When it causes tonsillitis, you might experience more severe symptoms than with a viral infection.

Symptoms of Tonsillitis

If you suspect you have tonsillitis, you may observe some or all of the following symptoms:

• Swollen, red tonsils: They may also have white or yellow patches.
• Sore throat: This can be mild or severe and might make swallowing painful.
• Fever and chills: Often, these accompany the sore throat.
• Bad breath: Due to the infection in your throat.
• Swollen lymph nodes: You’ll notice these on the sides of your neck.

In children, you might also observe additional symptoms such as stomach pain, trouble, or pain when swallowing. ²

Treatments for Viral Tonsillitis

Since antibiotics can’t treat viral infections, the primary method for treating viral tonsillitis is symptom relief. You might consider:

• Rest: Giving your body time to heal is essential.
• Drink fluids: Staying hydrated helps soothe a sore throat.
• Pain relievers: Over-the-counter pain medicines can alleviate some of the discomfort.

Treatments for Bacterial Tonsillitis

If your tonsillitis is due to a bacterial infection, your doctor might prescribe antibiotics. It’s crucial to complete the entire course, even if you start feeling better.

In people with chronic or recurrent tonsillitis, a doctor might suggest a tonsillectomy, which is a surgical procedure to remove the tonsils.

Further Reading: 5 Home Remedies for Tonsillitis

Prevention

Want to keep tonsillitis at bay? Here are some tips:

• Maintain good hand hygiene: Regular handwashing can prevent the spread of germs.
• Stay away from sick individuals: If someone has tonsillitis or a sore throat, it’s best to keep your distance.
• Replace your toothbrush regularly: After an illness, ensure you switch out your toothbrush to avoid reintroducing germs.

Complications

While tonsillitis often resolves on its own, untreated or frequent tonsillitis might result in complications such as:

• Abscess: A pocket of pus can form behind a tonsil.
• Breathing difficulties: Swollen tonsils can block the airways.
• Middle ear infections: Bacteria from the tonsils can spread to the middle ear.

According to many health experts, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional if you think you have tonsillitis, especially if the symptoms persist or are severe.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the primary functions of the tonsils?

Tonsils act as a first line of defense in our immune system. They produce white blood cells that help combat infections, capturing harmful bacteria and viruses that enter through the mouth or nose. Over time, however, they can become less active and may not play a significant role in the immune function of adults.

How can I differentiate between viral and bacterial tonsillitis?

While only a doctor can definitively determine the cause, there are some general distinctions. Viral tonsillitis often comes with symptoms like coughing, a runny nose, and hoarseness. Bacterial tonsillitis, usually caused by the Streptococcus bacterium, can result in a sudden sore throat, pain when swallowing, and fever without the aforementioned cold-like symptoms.

Is tonsillitis contagious?

Yes, tonsillitis is contagious. The viruses and bacteria causing tonsillitis can spread through airborne droplets when a person coughs or sneezes. Direct contact with an infected person’s mouth or throat secretions can also spread the infection. Therefore, maintaining good hygiene and avoiding close contact with infected individuals is advisable.

What home remedies can help soothe tonsillitis?

There are several home remedies you can try:

• Gargling with warm salt water can help in soothing a sore throat.
• Drinking warm liquids like tea or broth can provide relief.
• Hard candies or lozenges can also be beneficial for some people.
• Using a humidifier in your room can prevent throat dryness, which might exacerbate the pain. ³

When should I consider a tonsillectomy?

A tonsillectomy, the surgical removal of the tonsils, might be considered if:

• You experience recurrent bouts of tonsillitis.
• The tonsillitis is chronic and doesn’t respond to other treatments.
• There are complications, such as abscess formation or breathing difficulties due to enlarged tonsils. It’s essential to discuss with a healthcare professional who can guide the decision based on individual circumstances.

Resources

1. MedlinePlus. Tonsillitis. ↩︎
2. NHS Inform. Tonsillitis. ↩︎
3. American Academy of Family Physicians. Tonsillitis. ↩︎

Further Reading: What Should You Eat If You Have Tonsillitis?