A R H A M Health & Education"

14/09/2025

✅ Causes of Tonsillitis
Tonsillitis is the inflammation of the tonsils, often leading to sore throat, difficulty swallowing, and swollen glands. It can affect people of all ages, but children and teenagers are more prone.

🔹 Major Causes:

1. Viral Infections – Most common, including cold and flu viruses.

2. Bacterial Infections – Especially Streptococcus pyogenes (strep throat).

3. Poor Immunity – Weakened immune system makes the body vulnerable.

4. Close Contact Exposure – Spreading through coughing, sneezing, or sharing utensils.

5. Environmental Factors – Polluted air or allergens can trigger throat irritation.

6. Seasonal Influence – More frequent in fall and winter when infections spread easily.

🧾 Key Note: Early treatment and good hygiene (handwashing, not sharing drinks/food) reduce the risk of tonsillitis. Persistent or recurrent tonsillitis may require medical evaluation for further treatment options.

13/09/2025

13/09/2025

Diagnosis of Tonsillitis
Tonsillitis is diagnosed through medical history, physical examination, and sometimes lab tests to determine whether the cause is viral or bacterial. Accurate diagnosis ensures proper treatment and prevents complications.

🔹 Diagnostic Methods:

1. Medical History Review – Discussing symptoms such as sore throat, fever, or difficulty swallowing.

2. Physical Examination – Checking the throat for red, swollen tonsils, white patches, or pus.

3. Palpation of Lymph Nodes – Feeling for swollen glands in the neck.

4. Throat Swab Test – A rapid strep test or throat culture to confirm bacterial infection (Streptococcus).

5. Blood Tests – Sometimes ordered to rule out other infections like mononucleosis.

🧾 Key Note: Early and accurate diagnosis helps guide treatment—antibiotics for bacterial causes, or supportive care for viral cases. Persistent or severe symptoms should always be evaluated by a healthcare professional.

13/09/2025

Symptoms of Tonsillitis
Tonsillitis is the swelling and inflammation of the tonsils, often caused by viral or bacterial infections. Recognizing symptoms early can help in timely treatment and prevention of complications.

🔹 Common Symptoms Include:

1. Sore Throat – Persistent pain or discomfort.

2. Red, Swollen Tonsils – Sometimes with white or yellow patches.

3. Difficulty Swallowing – Painful or uncomfortable swallowing.

4. Fever & Chills – Indicating an active infection.

5. Swollen Lymph Nodes – Especially in the neck area.

6. Bad Breath – Due to infection in the tonsils.

7. Hoarse Voice – Changes in voice or muffled speech.

8. Headache & Ear Pain – Pain radiating from throat irritation.

9. Loss of Appetite – Discomfort while eating or drinking.

10. Fatigue – Feeling tired or weak due to infection.

🧾 Key Note: If symptoms are severe, persistent, or recurrent, consult a healthcare provider. In some cases, surgical removal (tonsillectomy) may be recommended.

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13/09/2025

Management of Tonsillitis
Tonsillitis can be managed effectively with proper care and medical guidance. Treatment depends on whether the infection is viral or bacterial, as well as the severity of symptoms.

🔹 Management Approaches:

1. Rest & Hydration – Adequate rest and plenty of fluids help the body recover.

2. Pain & Fever Relief – Over-the-counter medications like acetaminophen or ibuprofen can reduce discomfort.

3. Salt Water Gargles – Helps soothe sore throat and reduce swelling.

4. Warm Fluids & Soft Foods – Tea, soups, and easy-to-swallow meals ease irritation.

5. Avoid Irritants – Stay away from smoke, pollutants, and allergens that worsen throat pain.

6. Antibiotics – Prescribed if tonsillitis is caused by bacterial infection (like strep throat).

7. Good Hygiene Practices – Frequent handwashing, not sharing utensils, and covering coughs/sneezes.

8. Tonsillectomy (Surgery) – Recommended in cases of chronic or recurrent tonsillitis.

🧾 Key Note: Early medical attention is important. Self-care can ease mild cases, but recurrent or severe tonsillitis requires professional evaluation.

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