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Tonsillitis is inflammation of the tonsils,
which are clusters of fleshy tissue which hang at the back of the throat
and which help to fight off germs that try to enter the body through the
mouth.
When the tonsils become infected, they become enlarged and red and can
be coated with a yellowish, greyish or white substance. Typical symptoms
are a sore throat, trouble in swallowing and the lymph glands in the neck
becoming large, swollen and very painful.
What is the treatment for tonsillitis?
Treatment for tonsillitis will depend on whether the tonsillitis is brought
on by a virus or a bacteria known as A Streptococci, in most cases the
Doctor can tell simply be looking at the tonsils, however to confirm strep
bacteria a culture will be taken.
If the illness is caused by a virus then nature will take its own course
and the infection will clear up in its own time, if it is caused by A
strep bacteria then the Doctor will usually prescribe a course of antibiotics.
If antibiotics are given, they are usually given for a period of around
5 to 7 days and it is important that your child take the full course even
when they are feeling much better. Some children suffer from frequent
bouts of tonsillitis and if this is the case, your Doctor may suggest
that your child's tonsils are removed. Frequent bouts are said to occur
if your child has more than 7 bouts of tonsillitis within a 12-month period.
Looking after your child if they have tonsillitis
Most children suffering from tonsillitis will find it very difficult to
eat because their throat will be very sore and the glands in the neck
may be swollen, it is extremely important however that they do get enough
nourishment and rest.
If they find it hard to eat then try giving them foods which are of a
soft consistency such as soups and broths, milkshakes, smoothies with
soft fruit and ice cream. Tonsillitis is contagious so you should take
care when washing plates and any utensils your child has used and also
wash drinking glasses separately.
Make sure your child drinks plenty of fluids and give them a children's
based pain relieving medication such as Calpol to help with pain and also
to regulate the temperature.
What can I do to prevent tonsillitis?
As tonsillitis is very contagious, it can be hard to prevent particularly
if your child is school age, because they pick up infections quite easily
when mixing with others, fortunately, tonsillitis is easily treatable
and there aren't any side effects or dangers associated with the illness
other than making your child feel off it for a few days.
Teaching your child good habits such as hand washing and not drinking
from cups which others have used, without first having them washed are
good habits to get into and can help reduce the risk of spreading the
illness.
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