Tonsillitis, which is another name for swollen tonsils, can be caused by a number of things and can be very painful. Here’s a look at what causes swollen tonsils and how to treat them:
Causes:
Bacterial infections:
Tonsillitis is often caused by a bacterial infection, like streptococcus, which can cause a lot of pain and swelling.
Viral infections:
Tonsillitis can be caused by viruses like the cold or flu.
Allergies:
When you have allergies, your tonsils and throat can get swollen.
Smoking or exposure to secondhand smoke:
The tonsils can get red and swollen if you smoke or breathe in secondhand smoke.
Tonsil stones:
Tonsil stones are small, hard lumps that can form in the tonsils and cause inflammation.
Treatments:
Antibiotics:
If the tonsillitis is caused by a bacterial infection, antibiotics may be prescribed to clear the infection.
Over-the-counter pain relievers:
Pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen that you can buy over the counter can help relieve pain and reduce swelling.
Saltwater gargles:
Warm salt water gargled in the mouth can help soothe a sore throat and reduce swelling.
Rest and hydration:
Getting enough rest and staying hydrated can help your body fight off the infection and reduce inflammation.
Surgery:
If repeated or severe infections are caused by the tonsils, surgery may be needed to remove them.
Tonsillectomy:
Tonsillectomies are surgeries that get rid of the tonsils. This is often done for sleep apnea, severe or long-lasting tonsillitis, or other conditions.
Other treatments:
Other ways to treat swollen tonsils are with steroid drugs to reduce inflammation, antihistamines to treat allergies, or by not smoking or being around other things that irritate the throat.
If you are experiencing symptoms of swollen tonsils, it’s important to see your healthcare provider for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. With the right care, most cases of tonsillitis can be successfully treated and managed.
About Author
Dr. Vivek Kumar Pathak: Renowned ENT Surgeon, Senior Professor, and Founder.
Dr. Pathak, ENT surgeon at Kailash Hospital, Senior ENT Professor at Sharda University, and founder of Entegrity Care, brings expertise and innovation to healthcare. Discover the visionary behind Doxtreat Healthcare, shaping the future of ENT care.
Website www.drvivekpathak.com
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