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Acute Tonsillitis: Causes, Symptoms, and Diagnosis
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: Pacific Cross
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Chronic tonsillitis is a persistent infection of the tonsils. Repeated infections may cause the formation of small pockets (crypts) in the tonsils which harbor bacteria.
Frequently, small, foul smelling stones are found within these crypts. These stones (tonsilloliths) may contain high quantities of sulfa.
When crushed, they give off the characteristic rotten egg smell which causes bad breath. They may also give a patient the sense of something being caught in the back of the throat
Chronic tonsillitis is more common in adolescents and adults. Please discuss with your doctor for further information.
The common symptoms of Chronic Tonsillitis are:
There may be some symptoms not listed above. If you have any concerns about a symptom, please consult your doctor.
You should contact your doctor if you have any of the following:
As stated before, chronic tonsillitis is caused by an infection. Normally, the tonsils prevent bacteria and viruses from infecting the throat and lungs, but they may be overwhelmed. Infections may be either bacterial or viral, and include:
Major risk factors include immune deficiency and a family history of tonsillitis or atopy. Both infection with bacterium which are antibiotic resistant and altered immunologic function likely play a role in the development of chronic tonsillitis. You may also have an increased risk of developing chronic tonsillitis if you have been exposed to radiation.
The information provided is not a substitute for any medical advice. ALWAYS consult with your doctor for more information.
Diagnosis is based on a physical examination of your throat. Your doctor may also take a throat culture by gently swabbing the back of your throat. The culture will be sent to a laboratory to identify the cause of your throat infection.
Initial treatment for recurrent or chronic tonsillitis includes ensuring adequate hydration and pain control. Managing pain for a sore throat will allow you to keep yourself hydrated.
If you have signs of dehydration, you should seek medical attention. For pain control, you can use over-the-counter medications like Tylenol, Ibuprofen, or throat lozenges or sprays.
Regardless of what is causing your recurrent or chronic tonsillitis, your doctor may also recommend having your tonsils removed. This will likely be the case, if you are having five to seven episodes of tonsillitis in a year or you are having unresolved chronic tonsillitis.
Choosing to have a tonsillectomy can dramatically reduce the number of times you have a sore throat and need for antibiotics in a year. Improvement in quality of life has been identified as well, particularly if you your tonsillitis is affecting work or school attendance.
What are some lifestyle changes or home remedies that can help me manage Chronic Tonsillitis?
The following lifestyles and home remedies might help you cope with Chronic Tonsillitis:
If you have any questions, please consult with your doctor to better understand the best solution for you.
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