INFLAMMATION OF THE TONSILS
Tonsillitis
An infection or inflammation of the tonsils causing sore throat, painful swallowing, fever and swollen neck glands. Most cases are viral; bacterial causes need antibiotic therapy.
ABOUT THIS CONDITION
What is Tonsillitis
Tonsillitis is inflammation of the tonsils — the two oval-shaped tissue masses at the back of the throat. It most commonly affects children and young adults but can occur at any age. The condition is usually caused by viral infections such as the common cold and influenza viruses, with a significant proportion of cases due to bacterial infection (especially streptococcal). Typical features include sore throat, painful swallowing, swollen and red tonsils sometimes with white patches, fever, swollen and tender lymph nodes in the neck, bad breath, hoarse voice and difficulty eating. Most cases settle with supportive care, while bacterial tonsillitis benefits from antibiotic therapy. Recurrent or severe tonsillitis may need ENT evaluation for possible tonsillectomy. Dr. Patnam Pravallika Reddy provides accurate diagnosis and complete care at Lux Hospitals, Hyderabad.
SIGNS TO WATCH
Common Symptoms
Symptoms that need attention
WHY IT HAPPENS
Causes & Risk Factors
- Viral infection — most common cause
- Streptococcal and other bacterial infections
- Close contact with infected persons
- Crowded environments such as schools and offices
- Weakened immunity
- Repeated upper respiratory tract infections
CLINICAL DETAILS
KeyFacts
Clinical examination of the throat; throat swab for strep where indicated
Supportive care; antibiotic therapy for confirmed bacterial cases
Frequent episodes may need ENT evaluation for tonsillectomy
Rare — abscess around the tonsils may need urgent care
Hand hygiene and avoiding close contact with infected persons
Available at Lux Hospitals, Hyderabad
HOW WE TREAT IT
Treatment Approach
Targeted Treatment with ENT Referral for Recurrent Cases
The most effective approach combines supportive care for viral tonsillitis, targeted antibiotic therapy for bacterial cases, and ENT referral for recurrent or complicated tonsillitis where tonsillectomy may be considered.
- 1
Consultation & Assessment
Dr. Pravallika reviews symptoms, examines the throat and neck and arranges a throat swab where bacterial infection is suspected.
- 2
Treatment Planning
A personalised plan is created based on the likely cause, severity and history of recurrent episodes.
- 3
Medical Management
Supportive care, targeted antibiotic therapy for bacterial cases, and management of complications.
- 4
Recovery & Follow-up
Follow-up review for recurrent or persistent cases, with ENT referral when tonsillectomy may be considered.
AVAILABLE TREATMENTS
Treatment Options
Supportive Care
Rest, plenty of warm fluids, soft diet and throat lozenges ease pain and support recovery.
Pain and Fever Relief
Safe pain and fever-controlling medication helps relieve discomfort and improves the ability to eat and drink.
Antibiotic Therapy for Bacterial Tonsillitis
Antibiotic treatment is given when bacterial infection is confirmed or strongly suspected, to relieve symptoms and prevent complications.
Saltwater Gargles
Gargling with warm salt water reduces throat discomfort and supports recovery.
ENT Referral for Recurrent Tonsillitis (Referral for ENT evaluation)
Patients with frequent recurrent tonsillitis or complications such as abscess benefit from specialist ENT review.
COMMON QUESTIONS
Frequently Asked Questions
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