Tonsillitis is a condition marked by a severe infection in the tonsils, i.e. small masses of lymphoid tissue present in the throat that form a part of our immune system and serve as the first line of defence against various infections. These trap all the germs entering your airway and prevent them from triggering an infection. Tonsils also help to produce antibodies that help to curb serious infections. Tonsilitis can cause pain and discomfort and while most people recover within a few days with the help of simple medication, those experiencing persistent or frequent infections might need to get their tonsils removed surgically. This is commonly referred to as tonsillectomy.
Epstein-Barr virus
Rhinovirus
Enterovirus
Parainfluenza
adenovirus
Redness and swelling in the tonsils
Soreness in the throat
White or yellowish patches on the tonsils
Enlarged lymph nodes
Pungent breath
Drooling in children
Tonsillitis is diagnosed by carrying out a simple physical examination using an endoscope. A throat culture may also be collected for detailed assessment and evaluation. The doctor may also look for rashes (scarlatina), which may be associated with strep throat, and spleen enlargement caused by mononucleosis, which may also lead to the inflammation of the tonsils.
In the case of mild infections, the problem can be easily managed with the help of simple medication. Severe infections may call for the need for tonsillectomy, which refers to the surgical extraction of infected tonsils. This is done under the influence of anaesthesia and may even involve the use of ultrasonic vibrations. This can be done in a number of ways, which include: