Tonsillitis is a condition that can affect anyone, though it’s most common in children. What is it, what symptoms should you watch out for, and when should you get help from a medical provider? Understanding tonsillitis can help ensure you or your child receives the proper treatment.
What Is Tonsillitis?
Tonsillitis involves inflammation of the tonsils, which are visible as two areas of tissue near the back of the throat. Tonsillitis can be uncomfortable, and cases can range from mild to persistent or severe.
What Causes Tonsillitis?
You may not know that tonsils are part of your immune system. They function as your body’s first defense against pathogens (viruses or bacteria) that get into your mouth. As a result, they can be prone to inflammation or infection. Tonsillitis is most often caused by:
- Viruses. Viruses associated with the common cold can cause tonsillitis. The influenza (flu) virus is another common culprit.
- Bacteria. Some cases of tonsillitis can be caused by bacteria. Group A Streptococcus can cause strep throat, a common name for bacterial tonsillitis.
Risk Factors for Tonsillitis
Who is at risk for tonsillitis? In short, children younger than 15. This is because the role of the tonsils in immunity decreases after puberty, making older teens and adults less prone to tonsillitis. Frequent exposure to germs—such as in a school setting—also increases children’s risk of tonsillitis.
Is Tonsillitis Contagious?
The viruses and bacteria that cause tonsillitis can be quite contagious and can be passed from person to person by:
- Sharing eating utensils, beverages, or foods.
- Touching a contaminated surface before touching one’s mouth or nose.
- Breathing in small particles released when someone who is sick coughs or sneezes.
- Being in close contact with a sick person.
What signs and symptoms of tonsillitis should you look out for?
Tonsillitis Symptoms to Watch For
Red flags that indicate possible tonsillitis include:
- A sore throat.
- Reddened, swollen tonsils.
- White or yellow spots or patches on your tonsils.
- Difficult or uncomfortable swallowing.
- Bad breath.
- Swollen, tender lymph nodes in your neck.
- Fever.
- Headache.
- Vomiting or stomachache (more common in young children).
The symptoms of bacterial tonsillitis are usually more severe than those of viral tonsillitis.
When to Seek Medical Attention for Tonsillitis
When can you manage tonsillitis at home, and when should you seek help? Alamo City Urgent Care is an excellent choice for convenient, high-quality treatment for tonsillitis and many other ear, nose, and throat conditions.
Signs You Need Urgent Care for Tonsillitis
You should seek urgent care for tonsillitis if your child has:
- A sore throat with a fever.
- A sore throat that lasts more than one or two days.
- Difficult or painful swallowing.
- Significant tiredness, fussiness, or weakness.
If your child experiences the following symptoms, get help in an emergency room right away:
- Breathing difficulty.
- Drooling.
- Severe difficulty swallowing.
When To Follow Up With a Primary Care Doctor
Following up with a family doctor or pediatrician after being treated for tonsillitis is a good idea, and your urgent care provider may give you instructions on when to do so. Keeping your primary care provider involved in your or your child’s health is important, as it enables them to monitor for complete healing and detect any potential complications.
Potential Complications of Untreated Tonsillitis
Possible complications of untreated, unresolved, or chronic tonsillitis can include:
- Peritonsillar abscess, an infected pocket near one of your tonsils requiring surgical intervention.
- Tonsil stones.
- Tonsillar cellulitis, an infection of the tonsil tissue.
An untreated tonsil infection caused by Group A strep can cause complications such as:
- Rheumatic fever.
- Scarlet fever.
- Poststreptococcal reactive arthritis.
- Inflammation of the kidneys.
Getting prompt treatment for bacterial tonsillitis is essential to help prevent complications, which can include long-term health issues.
Diagnosing Tonsillitis
When you visit Alamo City Urgent Care, a provider will typically discuss symptoms and perform a physical exam, including examining your child’s tonsils and throat and checking for swollen lymph nodes.
Your child may need a throat swab, which can help confirm certain causes of tonsillitis, such as strep throat. In some cases, further testing, such as a blood test, may be indicated to reach a clear diagnosis.
Tonsillitis Treatment Options
Treatment for mild tonsillitis may include warm saltwater gargles, rest, adequate fluid intake, and medications for fever or pain relief (such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen). Do not give aspirin to teens or children.
If your child’s tonsillitis is thought to be due to a bacterial infection like Group A strep, an antibiotic is typically ordered to help combat the bacteria and prevent complications. It’s important to finish the full course of antibiotic therapy to prevent complications.
Preventing Tonsillitis
Avoiding infection with the viruses or bacteria that cause tonsillitis is the key to prevention. Ensure your child washes their hands frequently and doesn’t share cups or utensils with others. Replacing their toothbrush after an illness is also a good idea.
Urgent Care for Tonsillitis at Alamo City Urgent Care
Alamo City Urgent Care offers experienced, family-friendly care close to home. One of our caring providers can help pinpoint the cause of your or your child’s symptoms and start the appropriate treatment right away.
For prompt, top-tier care for a wide range of illnesses and injuries, visit one of our convenient San Antonio locations or contact our helpful team to learn more.
