EVERYONE has become a lot more familiar with their tonsils over the course of the Covid pandemic.
Brits have been required to check for the virus regularly, which has resulted in them having to find their tonsils and swab them. Now the classic winter bug of tonsillitis has returned.
2
Where are your tonsils?
The tonsils are located in the rear of your throat, at the back end of your mouth.
They sit on each side of the throat and can usually be seen by saying “aaaah” and pushing your tongue down.
To prevent foreign objects entering the lungs, the tonsils protect them.
They are also a first line of defense against viruses and bacteria.
What is tonsillitis?
Tonsillitis refers to inflammation of the tonsils.
This is most often due to a viral infection, but it can also be caused by a bacterial infection.
They are a barrier to infection and help fight germs in young children.
They stop the spread of infection by identifying the source and stopping it from spreading.
The tonsils shrink as children get older and their immune systems become stronger.
While most people can manage infections without the tonsils in their bodies, there are some cases when they cause problems.
What are the symptoms for tonsillitis?
Tonsillitis usually manifests as a sore throat and pus-filled areas.
Tonsillitis can cause your tonsils to become reddish and swollen, and may make swallowing difficult.
Other symptoms include high temperatures, coughing and headaches, as well as earache, voice changes, voice loss, voice problems, nausea, vomiting, and swelling of the neck and painful glands.
Symptoms usually improve within three to four days.
Tonsillitis may be caused by a viral infection. Your symptoms might be milder.
The symptoms may be milder if it’s caused by a viral infection. You might also experience bad breath.
2
What to do if you have tonsillitis?
There is no treatment for tonsillitis. Most cases resolve within one week.
You can speed up your recovery by doing certain things.
You should ensure you have enough food and water.
A sore throat can be relieved with over-the-counter painkillers such as paracetamol, ibuprofen, or both.
If the infection is bacterial, antibiotics may be prescribed.
Sometimes, tonsillitis can be severe enough to require removal.