Tonsillitis- symptoms and treatment

What is tonsillitis?

Tonsils are situated at the back of the throat. They are collections of lymphoid tissue, which forms part of the immune system. In total, people have four sets of tonsils, but, usually, when they are referred to as "the tonsils," it means the palatine tonsils.

The palatine tonsils are the only tonsils that are visible under normal circumstances.

Tonsils are at their largest size around the time of puberty and, from that point on, they slowly atrophy (shrink). The tonsils are the body's first line of defense against inhaled bacteria, viruses, and other organisms that cause disease.

Specialized cells on the surface of the tonsils alert B cells and T cells in the immune system and they mount an immune defense. Tonsils also produce T cells.

The vast majority of people, whether given medication or not, will fully recover from tonsillitis within a matter of days. Most symptoms will resolve within 7-10 days.

--Causes of tonsillitis--

Because the tonsils are the first line of defense against invaders from the outside world, they are susceptible to infection themselves.

Tonsillitis is typically viral, but can sometimes be bacterial. If it is due to a bacterium belonging to the group A streptococcus, the condition is referred to as strep throat.

Whether viral or bacterial, tonsillitis can be contagious and spread from person to person. However, if the condition is caused by a secondary illness, such as sinusitis or hay fever, it is unlikely to be infectious.

--Treatment of tonsillitis--

The first line of tonsillitis care can be carried out at home.

-Home care

These are the simplest tactics to reduce symptoms of tonsillitis at home:

- Resting enables the body to focus its energy on fighting the infection rather than using it on daily activities.
- Drinking plenty of fluids will prevent the throat from drying out and becoming more uncomfortable. When the body is fighting an infection, it needs more hydration than normal. Warm, preferably caffeine-free drinks can also soothe.
- Gargling with saltwater might help with discomfort.
- Sucking throat lozenges may help and these are readily available over the counter.
- Using air humidifiers or sitting in a steamy bathroom can alleviate the irritation caused by dry air.
- Avoiding irritants, such as tobacco and smoky locations.
- Taking medication, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can help with pain and fever.