What You Should Know About Tonsillitis   by Sandy Rutherforde

in Health / Diseases and Conditions    (submitted 2012-01-10)

Anyone who has suffered with tonsillitis understands that it is far from a walk in the park. In fact, your typical sore throat would seem like a vacation in Hawaii in comparison! With ice cream for every meal right up until symptoms diminish, it's probably the only cure for an addiction to Ben and Jerry's.

In this article, we will take a look at several of the most often mentioned subjects concerning the condition like tonsillitis symptoms, whether or not tonsillitis is contagious and ways in which this illness is best treated.

Just What is Tonsillitis?

Your tonsils are located behind and to either side of the uvula (the little flap of skin in the back of your throat) and it is these that get infected once tonsillitis has been developed. And that is basically what tonsillitis is - an infection of your tonsils. This kind of infection can be due to either bacteria or possibly a virus, but is a lot more typically the latter. While it's more prevalent in children, older people are fairly susceptible too and it's actually not out of the ordinary for specific individuals to get the problem time and time again.

Tonsillitis Symptoms

Believe it or not, there are many more tonsillitis symptoms than only a simple sore throat. In fact, there are a wide number of ailments that can potentially indicate whether or not somebody has developed the infection, and these include:

1. Swollen tonsils involving white or yellow mottling in certain instances.
2. Sore throat and trouble swallowing.
3. Common cold symptoms like a cough, headaches and nasal congestion.
4. Ear ache and headaches.
5. Changing body temperature with both fever and chills.
6. Bodily aches and general fatigue.

Is Tonsillitis Infectious?

Regretfully, the question of whether tonsillitis is contagious is among the most frequent and the answer is always a definite yes. And sadly, the answer doesn't change whether we are referring to the viral or bacterial form of the illness. So, whether it's to avoid a sneeze, a hand shake or a quick kiss, you are much better off keeping away from tonsillitis patients.

Tonsillitis Treatments

In lots of instances, tonsillitis will usually dissipate of its own accord with no treatment at all. However it's nonetheless important to be certain you remain hydrated and try to continue eating wherever possible to retain sufficient energy to combat this infection.

Naturally, there is going to be some discomfort with all tonsillitis infections and for this reason regular pain killers such as Paracetamol and Ibuprofen will suffice. In addition, there are a broad range of topical sprays and lozenges readily available at all pharmacists that will offer some element of relief.

Should the symptoms persist, seek the advice of your doctor because in more severe cases of infection, you could be prescribed antibiotics or if tonsillitis is particularly persistent, the removal of tonsils may be necessary.

About the Author

Do you have a family member suffering from tonsillitis? Be sure to visit Patient.co.uk to find information on is tonsillitis contagious and treatment methods.