How to Treat Tonsillitis

How to Treat Tonsillitis

The two lymph nodes located on each side in the back of your throat are called your tonsils. Your tonsils are one of the first lines of defense in helping to prevent infection from entering the rest of your body. A condition called tonsillitis occurs when your tonsils become infected.

Tonsillitis can occur at any age but is most commonly diagnosed in young children beginning at preschool age and into the teenage years. Children are in close contact with others when they are at school and at play which makes them particularly vulnerable to infections including tonsillitis. Common symptoms that may indicate tonsillitis include swollen tonsils, a sore throat, painful swallowing, chills and fever. This condition is considered to be contagious and can be caused by both viruses and bacteria including strep throat (Streptococcus bacteria). Strep throat that is left untreated can lead to serious complications.

How to Treat Tonsillitis

Our ENT physicians can easily diagnose tonsillitis with a physical exam of the throat and a throat swab. The treatment varies depending on the cause of the tonsillitis however symptoms usually fully resolve within a week to 10 days of treatment. The most common treatment for tonsillitis caused by a bacterial infection is an antibiotic. For people who have complications, experience repeated tonsillitis, or do not respond to treatment, a tonsillectomy or surgical removal of the tonsils is sometimes recommended.

To find out more about Tonsillitis Treatments or to Request an Appointment call Odalys Alfonso at (954) 389-1414 or fill the short form below.