[Tonsillitis] pain when swallowing saliva

Hello there,

Is everyone living a healthy life?

In this session, we will learn about tonsillitis. You usually get tonsillitis with a cold, so let’s be aware and prevent it.

What is tonsillitis?

Tonsillitis is the inflammation or infection of the tonsils, which are two small, oval-shaped masses of lymphoid tissue located at the back of the throat, one on each side. The tonsils are a part of the body’s immune system and help fight off infections, particularly those that enter the body through the mouth and throat.

Causes:

1. Viral Infections: Viruses are the most common cause of tonsillitis, especially in children. The following viruses can lead to viral tonsillitis:

1. • Rhinovirus: The common cold virus.
   • Influenza viruses: Including seasonal flu strains.
   • Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV): Can cause infectious mononucleosis, also known as “mono.”
   • Adenovirus: Can cause a range of respiratory and other infections.
   • Enteroviruses: Including coxsackievirus, which can cause hand, foot, and mouth disease.

1. Bacterial Infections: Bacterial tonsillitis, often referred to as “strep throat,” is less common than viral tonsillitis but can be more severe. The primary bacterium responsible for strep throat is Streptococcus pyogenes (group A Streptococcus). Other bacteria, such as Staphylococcus aureus and Haemophilus influenzae, can also cause bacterial tonsillitis.
2. Other Microorganisms: In rare cases, tonsillitis can be caused by other microorganisms, such as fungi or parasites, but this is uncommon and typically occurs in individuals with compromised immune systems.
3. Environmental Factors: Exposure to irritants or allergens can sometimes lead to inflammation of the tonsils. Smoking or exposure to secondhand smoke, as well as allergens like pollen, dust, or certain chemicals, may contribute to tonsillar inflammation.

Symptoms:

1. Sore Throat: A persistent and often severe sore throat is a hallmark symptom of tonsillitis. The throat may feel scratchy, painful, and irritated.
2. Painful Swallowing: Pain or discomfort when swallowing is common. Swallowing may become more painful as the infection progresses.
3. Fever: Tonsillitis is often accompanied by a fever. The body’s temperature may rise, and feverish symptoms such as chills and sweating may occur. [Link : more information about fever]
4. Swollen Tonsils: The tonsils, located at the back of the throat, may become visibly swollen and red. In cases of bacterial tonsillitis, the tonsils may develop white or yellow pus-filled patches.
5. Difficulty Swallowing: Due to the pain and swelling, it can be difficult and painful to swallow, especially solid foods.
6. Tender Lymph Nodes: The lymph nodes (small, bean-shaped glands) in the neck may become swollen and tender to the touch. This is the body’s response to the infection.
7. Headache: Some individuals with tonsillitis experience headaches, which can be caused by the infection or fever. [Link : more information about headache]
8. Earache: Pain in the ears, known as referred pain, can occur because the ears share nerves with the throat and tonsils.
9. Bad Breath: Foul breath or halitosis is common due to the presence of infection and inflammation in the throat.
10. Fatigue: Tonsillitis can lead to feelings of tiredness and fatigue, which can be exacerbated by fever and discomfort.
11. Coughing: A dry or persistent cough may accompany tonsillitis, especially if the infection extends to the airways. [Link : more information about coughing]
12. Voice Changes: Hoarseness or changes in the voice quality can occur, primarily due to the swollen tonsils and sore throat.

Prevention:

1. Practice Good Hand Hygiene:

1. • Wash your hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after coughing or sneezing, using the restroom, and before eating.
   • If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.

1. Avoid Close Contact with Infected Individuals:

1. • Tonsillitis is contagious, and it can spread through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes. Try to avoid close contact with individuals who have symptoms of tonsillitis or other respiratory infections.

1. Cover Your Mouth and Nose:

1. • When coughing or sneezing, use a tissue or your elbow to cover your mouth and nose to prevent the spread of germs.
   • Dispose of used tissues immediately and wash your hands afterward.

1. Practice Respiratory Hygiene:

1. • Teach proper respiratory hygiene to children and others in your household to reduce the spread of infections.
   • Encourage coughing and sneezing etiquette to prevent the release of respiratory droplets into the air.

1. Avoid Sharing Personal Items:

1. • Do not share items like utensils, cups, or towels with individuals who may have tonsillitis or respiratory infections.

1. Boost Your Immune System:

1. • Maintain a healthy lifestyle by eating a balanced diet, getting regular exercise, and getting enough sleep to support a strong immune system.
   • Consider getting recommended vaccinations, such as the flu vaccine, to reduce your risk of viral infections.

1. Stay Hydrated:

1. • Adequate hydration helps keep your mucous membranes moist and can support the body’s natural defenses against infections.

1. Avoid Smoking and Secondhand Smoke:

1. • Smoking and exposure to secondhand smoke can irritate the throat and make it more susceptible to infections.

1. Limit Close Contact in Crowded Settings:

1. • Avoid close contact with large groups of people, especially during flu season or during outbreaks of contagious illnesses.

1. Practice Good Oral Hygiene:

1. • Maintain good oral hygiene by brushing your teeth regularly and using mouthwash. This can help reduce the risk of bacterial infections that may lead to tonsillitis.

1. Reduce Stress:

1. • Chronic stress can weaken the immune system. Engage in stress-reduction techniques such as mindfulness, meditation, or yoga to help support immune function.

Treatment:

Treatment of tonsillitis depends on its cause:

• Viral tonsillitis: Typically resolves on its own within a week or so, and treatment mainly focuses on managing symptoms with rest, hydration, pain relievers, and throat lozenges.
• Bacterial tonsillitis (strep throat): Treated with antibiotics, such as penicillin or amoxicillin, to clear the bacterial infection. It’s essential to complete the full course of antibiotics, even if symptoms improve before the medication is finished.

Tonsillitis is usually a self-limiting condition, and most people recover without complications. However, if you or your child experience severe or recurrent tonsillitis, or if you suspect strep throat, it’s important to seek medical evaluation and treatment to prevent potential complications and ensure a full recovery.

For our healthy life 🙂