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Can you get strep throat without tonsils?

Strep throat is a contagious infection causing pain and other symptoms that affect the throat and tonsils. Even people who have undergone tonsil removal can get strep throat.

Certain signs and symptoms can indicate strep throat, and a doctor can diagnose and treat this infection. Treatment also involves managing the symptoms with home remedies and taking steps to reduce the spread of the infection.

Keep reading to learn more.

Strep throat generally infects the structures of the throat and tonsils.

However, it is still possible to get strep throat without tonsils. Removing the tonsils may reduce the severity or frequency of future strep throat infections, but it does not remove the risk of infection completely.

Strep throat is a bacterial infection in the throat and tonsils. The infection occurs due to an overgrowth of Streptococcus bacteria, from which the infection gets its common name. Specifically, bacteria called group A Streptococcus or group A strep cause these infections.

Strep throat is contagious, and a person can easily get it if they have contact with someone with the infection. The infection can spread in the droplets from a person’s breath or cough, or a person can get it by touching a surface that has the fluids from someone with the infection on it.

Sharing foods or drinks with someone with strep throat may also allow the infection to spread.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) note that it takes about 2–5 days for someone to become infected after they have exposure to the bacteria.

Some people may be more at risk for infection, including children aged 5–15 years and adults who have close contact with children, such as parents, caregivers, and teachers.

The symptoms of strep throat vary slightly, though some signs may indicate strep over other infections.

Common strep throat symptoms include:

  • a sore and painful throat without a cough
  • pain while swallowing
  • fever
  • swollen, painful glands at the front of the neck
  • a white film on the tonsils or back of the throat
  • redness in the back of the throat
  • headaches
  • small red dots on the roof of the mouth and throat

Other symptoms may also occur outside of the throat, such as nausea or a stomachache.

Serious complications are not common with strep throat, though they are still possible.

Possible complications from an untreated strep throat infection that spreads to other areas include:

While strep throat occurs due to a bacterial infection, viral infections in the throat are also possible. Some people may not have noticeable symptoms, while others might experience:

Preventing the spread of strep throat involves adopting some basic hygiene practices and taking steps to avoid contact with the bacteria.

Good hygiene practices to prevent the spread of strep throat include:

  • washing the hands regularly
  • using alcohol-based hand sanitizer when soap is not available
  • covering the mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing
  • disposing of used tissues immediately
  • washing shared items and dishes thoroughly
  • staying home from work, school, or social gatherings until no longer sick

The body does not build immunity to strep throat, so a person who recovers from strep throat may still get another infection later on.

People who are prone to strep throat infections may benefit from undergoing the surgical removal of their tonsils (tonsillectomy).

People with recurring strep throat infections who have a tonsillectomy may notice the severity and frequency of their infections go down.

However, it is still possible to get strep throat without having tonsils.

Doctors will do a thorough physical exam to diagnose strep throat. This exam usually includes feeling the lymph nodes and pressing the tongue down to inspect the back of the throat for signs of infection.

If the doctor suspects strep throat, they will order a rapid strep test by taking a swab of the person’s throat and checking for the bacteria. The test quickly shows whether strep is causing the infection, meaning that the person can get treatment quickly.

These tests are important to help doctors correctly distinguish between a strep infection and other infections. A review article in Family Practice notes that no signs or symptoms can allow doctors to differentiate confidently between strep infections and other infections.

Tests such as a throat swab are the only way to diagnose the underlying issue correctly.

Antibiotics, such as penicillin or amoxicillin, are the standard treatment for strep throat. The antibiotics work quickly, and the CDC note that someone with strep throat should start feeling better within 48 hours of taking them.

Antibiotic treatment shortens the duration of symptoms, reduces the likelihood of transmission, and helps prevent complications.

Anyone who does not respond to antibacterial treatment within 48 hours should contact their doctor. In some cases, there may be another organism causing the infection.

Some simple home remedies may help soothe symptoms as the antibiotics clear out the infections. Drinking warm liquids may help reduce the pain in the throat. Some people may get more relief from cooling the area, in which case, they can try sucking on ice cubes or popsicles to help numb the throat.

Medicated throat lozenges may be more effective in reducing pain symptoms in some people. Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory drugs and pain relievers, such as ibuprofen (Advil) and acetaminophen (Tylenol), may help manage pain as well.

Strep throat is a highly contagious bacterial infection that affects the tonsils and throat.

While some people who undergo tonsil removal may notice less frequent or less severe strep throat infections, it is still possible to get a strep throat without tonsils.

Basic hygiene practices may help reduce the spread of the infection, and the person should see a doctor for a diagnosis and antibiotic treatment.

Proper treatment clears out the bacteria and reduces the risk of serious complications.

Can you get strep throat without tonsils?

Strep throat is a contagious infection causing pain and other symptoms that affect the throat and tonsils. Even people who have undergone tonsil removal can get strep throat.

Certain signs and symptoms can indicate strep throat, and a doctor can diagnose and treat this infection. Treatment also involves managing the symptoms with home remedies and taking steps to reduce the spread of the infection.

Keep reading to learn more.

Strep throat generally infects the structures of the throat and tonsils.

However, it is still possible to get strep throat without tonsils. Removing the tonsils may reduce the severity or frequency of future strep throat infections, but it does not remove the risk of infection completely.

Strep throat is a bacterial infection in the throat and tonsils. The infection occurs due to an overgrowth of Streptococcus bacteria, from which the infection gets its common name. Specifically, bacteria called group A Streptococcus or group A strep cause these infections.

Strep throat is contagious, and a person can easily get it if they have contact with someone with the infection. The infection can spread in the droplets from a person’s breath or cough, or a person can get it by touching a surface that has the fluids from someone with the infection on it.

Sharing foods or drinks with someone with strep throat may also allow the infection to spread.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) note that it takes about 2–5 days for someone to become infected after they have exposure to the bacteria.

Some people may be more at risk for infection, including children aged 5–15 years and adults who have close contact with children, such as parents, caregivers, and teachers.

The symptoms of strep throat vary slightly, though some signs may indicate strep over other infections.

Common strep throat symptoms include:

  • a sore and painful throat without a cough
  • pain while swallowing
  • fever
  • swollen, painful glands at the front of the neck
  • a white film on the tonsils or back of the throat
  • redness in the back of the throat
  • headaches
  • small red dots on the roof of the mouth and throat

Other symptoms may also occur outside of the throat, such as nausea or a stomachache.

Serious complications are not common with strep throat, though they are still possible.

Possible complications from an untreated strep throat infection that spreads to other areas include:

While strep throat occurs due to a bacterial infection, viral infections in the throat are also possible. Some people may not have noticeable symptoms, while others might experience:

Preventing the spread of strep throat involves adopting some basic hygiene practices and taking steps to avoid contact with the bacteria.

Good hygiene practices to prevent the spread of strep throat include:

  • washing the hands regularly
  • using alcohol-based hand sanitizer when soap is not available
  • covering the mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing
  • disposing of used tissues immediately
  • washing shared items and dishes thoroughly
  • staying home from work, school, or social gatherings until no longer sick

The body does not build immunity to strep throat, so a person who recovers from strep throat may still get another infection later on.

People who are prone to strep throat infections may benefit from undergoing the surgical removal of their tonsils (tonsillectomy).

People with recurring strep throat infections who have a tonsillectomy may notice the severity and frequency of their infections go down.

However, it is still possible to get strep throat without having tonsils.

Doctors will do a thorough physical exam to diagnose strep throat. This exam usually includes feeling the lymph nodes and pressing the tongue down to inspect the back of the throat for signs of infection.

If the doctor suspects strep throat, they will order a rapid strep test by taking a swab of the person’s throat and checking for the bacteria. The test quickly shows whether strep is causing the infection, meaning that the person can get treatment quickly.

These tests are important to help doctors correctly distinguish between a strep infection and other infections. A review article in Family Practice notes that no signs or symptoms can allow doctors to differentiate confidently between strep infections and other infections.

Tests such as a throat swab are the only way to diagnose the underlying issue correctly.

Antibiotics, such as penicillin or amoxicillin, are the standard treatment for strep throat. The antibiotics work quickly, and the CDC note that someone with strep throat should start feeling better within 48 hours of taking them.

Antibiotic treatment shortens the duration of symptoms, reduces the likelihood of transmission, and helps prevent complications.

Anyone who does not respond to antibacterial treatment within 48 hours should contact their doctor. In some cases, there may be another organism causing the infection.

Some simple home remedies may help soothe symptoms as the antibiotics clear out the infections. Drinking warm liquids may help reduce the pain in the throat. Some people may get more relief from cooling the area, in which case, they can try sucking on ice cubes or popsicles to help numb the throat.

Medicated throat lozenges may be more effective in reducing pain symptoms in some people. Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory drugs and pain relievers, such as ibuprofen (Advil) and acetaminophen (Tylenol), may help manage pain as well.

Strep throat is a highly contagious bacterial infection that affects the tonsils and throat.

While some people who undergo tonsil removal may notice less frequent or less severe strep throat infections, it is still possible to get a strep throat without tonsils.

Basic hygiene practices may help reduce the spread of the infection, and the person should see a doctor for a diagnosis and antibiotic treatment.

Proper treatment clears out the bacteria and reduces the risk of serious complications.

Can you get strep throat without tonsils?

Strep throat is a contagious infection causing pain and other symptoms that affect the throat and tonsils. Even people who have undergone tonsil removal can get strep throat.

Certain signs and symptoms can indicate strep throat, and a doctor can diagnose and treat this infection. Treatment also involves managing the symptoms with home remedies and taking steps to reduce the spread of the infection.

Keep reading to learn more.

Strep throat generally infects the structures of the throat and tonsils.

However, it is still possible to get strep throat without tonsils. Removing the tonsils may reduce the severity or frequency of future strep throat infections, but it does not remove the risk of infection completely.

Strep throat is a bacterial infection in the throat and tonsils. The infection occurs due to an overgrowth of Streptococcus bacteria, from which the infection gets its common name. Specifically, bacteria called group A Streptococcus or group A strep cause these infections.

Strep throat is contagious, and a person can easily get it if they have contact with someone with the infection. The infection can spread in the droplets from a person’s breath or cough, or a person can get it by touching a surface that has the fluids from someone with the infection on it.

Sharing foods or drinks with someone with strep throat may also allow the infection to spread.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) note that it takes about 2–5 days for someone to become infected after they have exposure to the bacteria.

Some people may be more at risk for infection, including children aged 5–15 years and adults who have close contact with children, such as parents, caregivers, and teachers.

The symptoms of strep throat vary slightly, though some signs may indicate strep over other infections.

Common strep throat symptoms include:

  • a sore and painful throat without a cough
  • pain while swallowing
  • fever
  • swollen, painful glands at the front of the neck
  • a white film on the tonsils or back of the throat
  • redness in the back of the throat
  • headaches
  • small red dots on the roof of the mouth and throat

Other symptoms may also occur outside of the throat, such as nausea or a stomachache.

Serious complications are not common with strep throat, though they are still possible.

Possible complications from an untreated strep throat infection that spreads to other areas include:

While strep throat occurs due to a bacterial infection, viral infections in the throat are also possible. Some people may not have noticeable symptoms, while others might experience:

Preventing the spread of strep throat involves adopting some basic hygiene practices and taking steps to avoid contact with the bacteria.

Good hygiene practices to prevent the spread of strep throat include:

  • washing the hands regularly
  • using alcohol-based hand sanitizer when soap is not available
  • covering the mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing
  • disposing of used tissues immediately
  • washing shared items and dishes thoroughly
  • staying home from work, school, or social gatherings until no longer sick

The body does not build immunity to strep throat, so a person who recovers from strep throat may still get another infection later on.

People who are prone to strep throat infections may benefit from undergoing the surgical removal of their tonsils (tonsillectomy).

People with recurring strep throat infections who have a tonsillectomy may notice the severity and frequency of their infections go down.

However, it is still possible to get strep throat without having tonsils.

Doctors will do a thorough physical exam to diagnose strep throat. This exam usually includes feeling the lymph nodes and pressing the tongue down to inspect the back of the throat for signs of infection.

If the doctor suspects strep throat, they will order a rapid strep test by taking a swab of the person’s throat and checking for the bacteria. The test quickly shows whether strep is causing the infection, meaning that the person can get treatment quickly.

These tests are important to help doctors correctly distinguish between a strep infection and other infections. A review article in Family Practice notes that no signs or symptoms can allow doctors to differentiate confidently between strep infections and other infections.

Tests such as a throat swab are the only way to diagnose the underlying issue correctly.

Antibiotics, such as penicillin or amoxicillin, are the standard treatment for strep throat. The antibiotics work quickly, and the CDC note that someone with strep throat should start feeling better within 48 hours of taking them.

Antibiotic treatment shortens the duration of symptoms, reduces the likelihood of transmission, and helps prevent complications.

Anyone who does not respond to antibacterial treatment within 48 hours should contact their doctor. In some cases, there may be another organism causing the infection.

Some simple home remedies may help soothe symptoms as the antibiotics clear out the infections. Drinking warm liquids may help reduce the pain in the throat. Some people may get more relief from cooling the area, in which case, they can try sucking on ice cubes or popsicles to help numb the throat.

Medicated throat lozenges may be more effective in reducing pain symptoms in some people. Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory drugs and pain relievers, such as ibuprofen (Advil) and acetaminophen (Tylenol), may help manage pain as well.

Strep throat is a highly contagious bacterial infection that affects the tonsils and throat.

While some people who undergo tonsil removal may notice less frequent or less severe strep throat infections, it is still possible to get a strep throat without tonsils.

Basic hygiene practices may help reduce the spread of the infection, and the person should see a doctor for a diagnosis and antibiotic treatment.

Proper treatment clears out the bacteria and reduces the risk of serious complications.

Can you get strep throat without tonsils?

Strep throat is a contagious infection causing pain and other symptoms that affect the throat and tonsils. Even people who have undergone tonsil removal can get strep throat.

Certain signs and symptoms can indicate strep throat, and a doctor can diagnose and treat this infection. Treatment also involves managing the symptoms with home remedies and taking steps to reduce the spread of the infection.

Keep reading to learn more.

Strep throat generally infects the structures of the throat and tonsils.

However, it is still possible to get strep throat without tonsils. Removing the tonsils may reduce the severity or frequency of future strep throat infections, but it does not remove the risk of infection completely.

Strep throat is a bacterial infection in the throat and tonsils. The infection occurs due to an overgrowth of Streptococcus bacteria, from which the infection gets its common name. Specifically, bacteria called group A Streptococcus or group A strep cause these infections.

Strep throat is contagious, and a person can easily get it if they have contact with someone with the infection. The infection can spread in the droplets from a person’s breath or cough, or a person can get it by touching a surface that has the fluids from someone with the infection on it.

Sharing foods or drinks with someone with strep throat may also allow the infection to spread.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) note that it takes about 2–5 days for someone to become infected after they have exposure to the bacteria.

Some people may be more at risk for infection, including children aged 5–15 years and adults who have close contact with children, such as parents, caregivers, and teachers.

The symptoms of strep throat vary slightly, though some signs may indicate strep over other infections.

Common strep throat symptoms include:

  • a sore and painful throat without a cough
  • pain while swallowing
  • fever
  • swollen, painful glands at the front of the neck
  • a white film on the tonsils or back of the throat
  • redness in the back of the throat
  • headaches
  • small red dots on the roof of the mouth and throat

Other symptoms may also occur outside of the throat, such as nausea or a stomachache.

Serious complications are not common with strep throat, though they are still possible.

Possible complications from an untreated strep throat infection that spreads to other areas include:

While strep throat occurs due to a bacterial infection, viral infections in the throat are also possible. Some people may not have noticeable symptoms, while others might experience:

Preventing the spread of strep throat involves adopting some basic hygiene practices and taking steps to avoid contact with the bacteria.

Good hygiene practices to prevent the spread of strep throat include:

  • washing the hands regularly
  • using alcohol-based hand sanitizer when soap is not available
  • covering the mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing
  • disposing of used tissues immediately
  • washing shared items and dishes thoroughly
  • staying home from work, school, or social gatherings until no longer sick

The body does not build immunity to strep throat, so a person who recovers from strep throat may still get another infection later on.

People who are prone to strep throat infections may benefit from undergoing the surgical removal of their tonsils (tonsillectomy).

People with recurring strep throat infections who have a tonsillectomy may notice the severity and frequency of their infections go down.

However, it is still possible to get strep throat without having tonsils.

Doctors will do a thorough physical exam to diagnose strep throat. This exam usually includes feeling the lymph nodes and pressing the tongue down to inspect the back of the throat for signs of infection.

If the doctor suspects strep throat, they will order a rapid strep test by taking a swab of the person’s throat and checking for the bacteria. The test quickly shows whether strep is causing the infection, meaning that the person can get treatment quickly.

These tests are important to help doctors correctly distinguish between a strep infection and other infections. A review article in Family Practice notes that no signs or symptoms can allow doctors to differentiate confidently between strep infections and other infections.

Tests such as a throat swab are the only way to diagnose the underlying issue correctly.

Antibiotics, such as penicillin or amoxicillin, are the standard treatment for strep throat. The antibiotics work quickly, and the CDC note that someone with strep throat should start feeling better within 48 hours of taking them.

Antibiotic treatment shortens the duration of symptoms, reduces the likelihood of transmission, and helps prevent complications.

Anyone who does not respond to antibacterial treatment within 48 hours should contact their doctor. In some cases, there may be another organism causing the infection.

Some simple home remedies may help soothe symptoms as the antibiotics clear out the infections. Drinking warm liquids may help reduce the pain in the throat. Some people may get more relief from cooling the area, in which case, they can try sucking on ice cubes or popsicles to help numb the throat.

Medicated throat lozenges may be more effective in reducing pain symptoms in some people. Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory drugs and pain relievers, such as ibuprofen (Advil) and acetaminophen (Tylenol), may help manage pain as well.

Strep throat is a highly contagious bacterial infection that affects the tonsils and throat.

While some people who undergo tonsil removal may notice less frequent or less severe strep throat infections, it is still possible to get a strep throat without tonsils.

Basic hygiene practices may help reduce the spread of the infection, and the person should see a doctor for a diagnosis and antibiotic treatment.

Proper treatment clears out the bacteria and reduces the risk of serious complications.

Can You Get Strep Throat Without Tonsils?

Could You Still Get Strep Throat Without Tonsils?

Your tonsils, known as palatine tonsils, are two masses of soft tissue found in the back of your throat. They are composed of a tissue similar to lymph nodes covered with a pink mucus membrane. The membrane features pits known scientifically as “crypts.”

Your tonsils are involved in the lymphatic system and are designed to keep you from getting infections. However, tonsils themselves can become infected or otherwise require removal, which generally does not have any effect on your health or immunities.

One common belief is that no tonsils means fewer infections. After all, your tonsils can’t get infected if they are not even there in the first place. One of the most common ailments of the throat is streptococcal pharyngitis, more commonly known as strep throat. It accounts for about 5-20 percent of all sore throats in adults. Even without tonsils, children can still get strep throat, but get it less frequently as they get older.

Learn more about how strep throat works and how removing your tonsils can reduce your risk of infection.

What is Strep Throat?

Strep throat is a bacterial infection affecting the tonsils and mucus membranes that line the back of the throat, causing inflammation and swelling that leads to a sore throat. It is more common in school-aged children 5 to 15 years old. In fact, it is estimated that 15% of them get strep throat every year.

What Causes Strep Throat?

Strep throat is caused by a bacteria known as Group A Streptococcus, also known as Streptococcus pyogenes. When the bacteria enters your system, it invades the pharyngeal tissue and triggers an inflammatory reaction in your tonsils and throat. Group A Streptococcus can be found in the throat and on the surface of your skin and is associated with a wide range of other diseases, including:

  • Skin infections like impetigo and cellulitis
  • Toxic shock syndrome
  • Scarlet fever
  • Rheumatic fever

Group B Streptococcus is another type of streptococcal bacteria, but it is rarely the cause of strep throat. Instead, it is more associated with bacterial pneumonia, meningitis, and certain blood infections.

The Spread of Strep Throat

Strep throat is contagious and is usually transmitted via direct contact with the saliva or nasal secretions from someone who is infected with or carrying the bacteria.

This typically happens in the form of airborne water droplets expelled when a person sneezes or coughs, which is why strep throat is much more common in areas with large numbers of people in close proximity, like schools, daycare centers, and college dorms. It can also be contracted from objects that may have the bacteria on them, like phones, utensils, doorknobs, keyboards, and towels.

While the bacteria can also be transmitted via food, foodborne outbreaks are a much less common form of transmission.

The Symptoms of Strep Throat

The severity and types of symptoms of strep throat can differ from person to person based on age and general health. Some people may carry the bacteria but show no symptoms, though most people’s symptoms will range from mild to severe. These symptoms happen within the first 5 days after initial exposure to the bacteria.

The most prominent symptom of strep throat in adults and children is a raw, red sore throat, but the first symptom is usually a high fever of about 101 degrees Fahrenheit.

Other common strep throat symptoms include:

  • Red or white patches on your throat and tonsils
  • Sore throat
  • Tiny red dots on the roof of your mouth
  • Headache
  • Chills and fatigue
  • Loss of appetite
  • General malaise
  • Swollen lymph nodes along your neck
  • Difficulty swallowing

Certain symptoms suggest that you contact the doctor immediately, including:

  • Swollen, tender lymph nodes on the neck with sore throat
  • Sore throat with a rash
  • Drooling or inability to swallow your saliva
  • Making noises when you breathe or problem when breathing
  • Inability to swallow food or liquids

While many of these symptoms are associated with strep throat, they may also point to more severe problems, including tracheitis and a retropharyngeal abscess.

Strep Throat and Your Tonsils

A study found that kids who had their tonsils removed after having strep throat were less likely to contract throat infections again. Results from the study suggest that children who had not gotten their tonsils removed were more likely to get throat infections sooner and more often during the first year than those who had undergone tonsillectomies.

However, removing the tonsils will not eliminate your chances of getting strep throat. You can still get strep throat. The infection is not localized to the tonsils alone. Tonsillectomies are better suited for children who have recurring strep throat to reduce the frequency and severity of symptoms.

Your child is considered to have recurring strep throat if they have seven or more severe throat infections in a single year. Severe throat infections are defined by exhibiting at least one of the following symptoms:

  • Difficulty with breathing or swallowing due to enlarged tonsils
  • Red rash appears
  • An oral temperature of at least 101 degrees Fahrenheit with a severe sore throat for longer than 1-2 days

As effective as removing the tonsils may be, most kids will stop having recurring strep throat infections as they get older. As common and generally safe as they are, tonsillectomies are still surgeries, meaning they can come with potential complications.

There are risks with bleeding and anesthesia as well as the loss of school days for recovery. It is a serious consideration. You should weigh the risks and benefits and consult your doctor before you commit to a decision.

Diagnosing Strep Throat

Sore throats are actually fairly common in a variety of diseases. Many sore throats are often a result of viral infections, like those resulting in the cold or flu. If you are coughing or sneezing or have a runny nose along with your sore throat, you are likely suffering from a viral infection. Aside from over-the-counter medications to ease symptoms, most viral infections should go away on their own without the need for treatment.

The only true way to know if you have strep throat is to consult your doctor for a professional diagnosis. Thankfully, diagnosing strep throat is fast, easy, and painless. Starting with a physical exam, your doctor will take a sample of fluids from the back of your throat using a cotton swab. The fluids will then undergo a rapid strep test, which is designed to indicate the presence of group A Streptococcus. As the name suggests, this test is fast and you should have results within 8-20 minutes.

However, the rapid strep test cannot determine all forms of the bacteria, so even if the tests show negative results, your doctor will send the fluid samples to the lab just in case. At the lab, doctors can create a throat culture and determine if your symptoms are caused by a streptococcal bacteria. While this test is more definitive, it will take longer for you to get the results, usually up to 48 hours.

Treating Strep Throat

While removing your tonsils is a potential treatment for recurring strep throat in kids and adults, general cases of strep throat are usually treated with a course of antibiotics. Antibiotics are meant to stop the spread of the bacteria to others and within your own body. They will also reduce your fever and help you feel better faster. The most common antibiotics prescribed for strep throat are penicillin and amoxicillin, but there are several types of antibiotics available.

Most people will feel better and stop being contagious after the first 24 hours of treatment. Those who do not take antibiotics can still spread the bacteria  even if they feel better and their noticeable symptoms have subsided.

It is important to complete the full course of antibiotics as prescribed by your doctor to make sure that the bacteria are completely killed from your system. Some people mistakenly stop taking antibiotics as soon as their symptoms get better. This may trigger a relapse, which can cause symptoms to return in more severe forms.

Not taking the antibiotics as prescribed may also create bacteria that are immune to common antibiotics, which forces the usage of more powerful antibiotics, increasing the risk of growing antibiotics-resistant bacteria to the new drugs too

Along with antibiotics, your doctor will likely prescribe over-the-counter pain relievers, like acetaminophen and ibuprofen, to reduce the fever and help you cope with the pain. Avoid giving aspirin to children and toddlers with strep throat as it has been linked to Reye’s syndrome, a disorder that can cause damage to a child’s brain and liver.

Home Remedies and Care

To improve symptoms and make yourself more comfortable, try these at-home treatments:

  • Stay hydrated and drink plenty of fluids. Fevers can increase fluid loss, while sore throats can reduce your fluid intake, which doubles your risk of dehydration.
  • Avoid coffee, which acts as a diuretic and often encourages water loss. You should also generally stay away from acidic beverages, like lemonade and orange juice, which may only further irritate your throat.
  • Drink colder fluids to numb your throat.
  • Drink warm fluids, including tea and soup, to soothe your throat.
  • Turn on a cool-mist humidifier to ease your breathing, but make sure you clean the humidifier as advised in the manual. A dirty humidifier will only spread bacteria and make your condition worse.
  • Suck on throat lozenges to calm any irritation in your throat.
  • Gargle a cup of water containing a half teaspoon of salt. This will help to flush out some of the bacteria in your throat and ease some of the pain you have.
  • Get plenty of sleep. Extra rest can encourage more rapid recovery.

Preventing Strep Throat

Predicting the disease can be difficult considering many people may carry the bacteria without even knowing it, so completely preventing strep throat is close to impossible. Wash your hands frequently when you are out and about, especially before you eat. If you know someone has strep throat, you may consider avoiding them until they have received treatment or until their symptoms have subsided.

In terms of preventing the spread of strep throat to others when you have it, you have a lot more control. The best thing you can do is stay at home until you have received treatment or otherwise feel better. If you must go out, consider wearing a facemask.

Cough into a tissue, handkerchief, or the inside of your arm. Wash your hands, and never share food, drinks, utensils, or other objects that may have your germs on them. You should also consider changing out your toothbrush when you get better to prevent any reinfection.

If you experience any serious complications or discomfort, or your symptoms worsen after a few days, you may require prescription medication. Consult your physician, visit urgent care, or book an appointment with an online doctor.


Read More About Strep Throat


Yes, You Can Still Get Strep Throat Even Without Tonsils

Strep throat is a common bacterial infection that causes swelling and pain in the throat, often making it hard to swallow. For those who are prone to frequent strep infections, a doctor may recommend a tonsillectomy — a surgical procedure to remove tonsils. 

While a tonsillectomy may relieve symptoms of a swollen throat, it doesn’t mean you’re immune to a strep throat infection. It is still possible to get strep even without your tonsils. 

Yes, you can get strep throat without tonsils

Even if you’ve had your tonsils removed, you can still become sick with strep throat. That’s  because the bacteria that causes strep, called Group A. Streptococcus, is still able to populate the tissues in the back of your throat even without your tonsils. 

The advantage of having your tonsils removed is that your sore throat symptoms will probably be less severe, says Rob Darzynkiewicz, MD, Chief Medical Officer at Hazel Health, a healthcare service that provides students with on-demand doctor visits via telemedicine.  

However, just because a tonsillectomy provides symptom relief, does not mean it reduces the frequency of strep throat infections.

Since the 1970s, the number of tonsillectomies in the US have significantly and progressively declined, with the majority now being done for obstructive sleep problems rather than recurring tonsillitis (sore throat). A 2014 review published in the Cochrane Database involving 987 children found that a tonsillectomy prevented an average of just one less sore throat a year, compared to those who didn’t have their tonsils removed. 

The same review concluded that adults should also typically forego a tonsillectomy for tonsillitis, because its minimal benefits in easing sore throat symptoms do not outweigh the pain of the procedure — which is especially uncomfortable in adults. 

When you should consider a tonsillectomy

The pros and cons of tonsillectomy vary depending on a patient’s needs. “If the throat infections significantly affect the patient’s life, for example a child missing school often, surgery may be recommended,” says Darzynkiewicz. “On the other hand, throat infections naturally decline as a child ages, so a doctor may recommend monitoring the patient closely over time and treating infections with antibiotics to avoid surgery.” 

Like every surgery, Darzynkiewicz says a tonsillectomy carries a risk of bleeding, pain, secondary infection, and adverse reactions to anesthesia. Therefore, it should be a last resort procedure when it comes to recurring tonsillitis. 

A tonsillectomy may be suggested as treatment for a child who has what are defined as “frequent” throat infections. Those who have more than seven strep throat infections in the span of one year or more than five over the span of two years, would fall into the “frequent” category. 

How do you get strep throat? 

When someone has strep throat, the bacteria responsible lives in their nose and throat, whether or not they have tonsils.  

Strep is spread through infected droplets in the air, from talking or sneezing, or through saliva left on surfaces like a handrail. That makes it possible to catch strep without coming into direct contact with an infected person. 

Touching a shared surface, such as a doorknob or table, and then touching your mouth or eyes is all it takes for transmission to occur, Darzynkiewicz says. Sharing drinks and personal items can also spread strep. Children are more likely to engage in these behaviors, which is part of the reason why school-aged children and their teachers get infected at higher rates than the rest of the population.

To prevent infection, be sure to disinfect surfaces and wash your hands properly. For more information, read about how to kill germs and reduce your risk of illness. 

Symptoms of strep throat 

Even if you have had your tonsils removed, you can still experience symptoms of strep throat. According to the Mayo Clinic, these symptoms can include:  

  • Scratchy, painful throat
  • Swollen lymph nodes
  • Fever 
  • Nausea
  • Difficulty swallowing 
  • Red or white patches on the inside of the throat 

One of the tell-tale indications that you do not have strep throat is a cough, as it’s more typical of a viral infection, says Darzynkiewicz.

When you go to the doctor with a sore throat, the first thing they will do is take your vital signs. Abnormal vital signs, like a fever, can be the first clue that you have an infection. Your care provider will then perform a physical exam, looking for signs and symptoms such as enlarged tonsils, redness or white patches on your throat, or swollen lymph nodes.

If symptoms of strep are identified, your doctor might swab your tonsils and throat for a fluid sample to test for strep. Darzynkiewicz says doctors usually swab your throat twice. That’s because the first swab will be used for a rapid test which can give results within 15 minutes. Rapid tests check for proteins called antigens that indicate the presence of strep bacteria. If the test is positive, antibiotic treatment can start right away. 

However, if your rapid test is negative and your doctor still suspects you have strep, they will use the second swab for a throat culture test, says Darzynkiewicz. Then lab techs  will wait for bacteria to grow on the swab before checking it under a microscope for strep. While this test takes more time than a rapid test, it sometimes catches strep infections the first test misses. 

How to get rid of strep throat

You should see your doctor if you suspect you or your child has strep throat. While symptoms of strep throat can sometimes be resolved with at-home treatment, there’s a risk of serious complications from an untreated strep infection.

According to Darzynkiewicz, secondary complications from strep include a throat abscess where strep bacteria spreads past your tonsils and into your throat or acute rheumatic fever which can cause long-term heart damage. Strep bacteria can also travel to the kidneys if left untreated leading to kidney inflammation and possible damage. 

While you wait to get tested for strep, you may want to manage symptoms with an over-the-counter pain reliever like acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil). 

Related

5 ways to soothe a sore throat

Once you are diagnosed, strep is most often treated with antibiotics. Oral antibiotics can manage symptoms and control your ability to transmit the infection to others, usually within 48 hours. Even if you don’t have tonsils, an antibiotic will still be recommended. 

The bottom line

It is possible to get strep throat even if you’ve had your tonsils removed. If you are someone who experiences frequent strep throat infections, a tonsillectomy may reduce symptoms of a sore throat, but sometimes the risks outweigh the benefits.

Strep Throat | Michigan Medicine

Topic Overview

What is strep throat?

Strep throat is a bacterial infection in the throat and the tonsils. The throat gets irritated and inflamed, causing a sudden, severe sore throat.

What causes strep throat?

Strep throat is caused by streptococcal (strep) bacteria. There are many different types of strep bacteria. Some cause more serious illness than others.

Although some people are quick to think that any painful sore throat is strep, sore throats are usually caused by a viral infection and not strep bacteria. A sore throat caused by a virus can be just as painful as strep throat. But if you have cold symptoms such as coughing, sneezing, or a runny or stuffy nose, you probably do not have strep throat.

What are the symptoms?

The most common symptoms of strep throat are:

  • A sudden, severe sore throat.
  • Pain when you swallow.
  • Fever over101°F (38.3°C).
  • Swollen tonsils and lymph nodes.
  • White or yellow spots on the back of a bright red throat.

You may also have a headache and belly pain. Less common symptoms are a red skin rash, vomiting, not feeling hungry, and body aches.

Strep throat can be passed from person to person. When a person who has strep throat breathes, coughs, or sneezes, tiny droplets with the strep bacteria go into the air. These droplets can be breathed in by other people. If you come into contact with strep, it will take 2 to 5 days before you start to have symptoms.

How is strep throat diagnosed?

Your doctor will do a physical exam, ask you about your symptoms and past health, and do a lab test such as a throat culture or rapid strep test.

A rapid test gives a result within about 10 minutes. But sometimes the test doesn’t show strep even when it is present. A culture takes one or two days but is better at finding all cases of strep.

If the rapid strep test is positive and says that you do have strep, there’s no need to do the throat culture.

How is it treated?

Doctors usually treat strep throat with antibiotics. Antibiotics shorten the time you are able to spread the disease to others (are contagious) and lower the risk of spreading the infection to other parts of your body. Antibiotics also may help you feel better faster.

You are contagious while you still have symptoms. Most people stop being contagious 24 hours after they start antibiotics. If you don’t take antibiotics, you may be contagious for 2 to 3 weeks, even if your symptoms go away.

Your doctor may also advise you to take an over-the-counter medicine like acetaminophen (such as Tylenol) or ibuprofen (such as Advil or Motrin) to help with pain and lower your fever. Be safe with medicines. Read and follow all instructions on the label. Do not give aspirin to anyone younger than 20. It has been linked to Reye syndrome, a serious illness.

How do you prevent strep throat?

To avoid getting strep throat, it is a good idea to avoid contact with anyone who has a strep infection. If you are around someone who has strep, wash your hands often. Don’t drink from the same glass or use the same eating utensils. And don’t share toothbrushes.

Bacteria can live for a short time on doorknobs, water faucets, and other objects. It’s a good idea to wash your hands regularly.

If you have a strep infection, there are things you can do to avoid spreading it to others. Use tissues you can throw away instead of handkerchiefs, wash your hands often, and do not sneeze or cough on others. Antibiotics can shorten the time that you are contagious. It is a good idea to stay home from work or school until 24 hours after you have started antibiotics.

Cause

Strep throat is caused by streptococcal (strep) bacteria, most often by group A beta-hemolytic streptococcus (GABS). Other types of strep that can sometimes infect the throat are groups C and G strep bacteria.

A strep infection causes the throat (pharynx) and the tonsils or adenoids to become irritated, inflamed, and painful.

Sore throats are most commonly caused by viral infections or other irritants such as smoke, allergies, dry air, or a throat injury, and not by a strep infection.

How the strep infection is spread

Strep throat can be passed from person to person. When a person infected with strep throat breathes, coughs, or sneezes, tiny droplets containing the strep bacteria are released into the air and are breathed in by other people.

Symptoms

Common symptoms of strep throat in children and adults include:

  • Severe and sudden sore throat without coughing, sneezing, or other cold symptoms.
  • Pain or difficulty with swallowing.
  • Fever over 101°F (38.3°C). Lower fevers may point to a viral infection and not strep.
  • Swollen lymph nodes in the neck.
  • White or yellow spots or coating on the throat and tonsils.
  • Bright red throat or dark red spots on the roof of the mouth at the back near the throat.
  • Swollen tonsils, although this symptom may also be caused by a viral infection.

In teens, mononucleosis can cause a severe sore throat that looks like and has symptoms similar to those of strep throat. For more information, see the topic Mononucleosis (Mono).

It is easy to tell when you have a sore throat or a cold. It is harder to know when you have strep throat. Typically, sore throats are caused by a viral infection and not strep bacteria. Strep throat usually does not occur with cold symptoms such as coughing, sneezing, or a runny or stuffy nose. The more cold symptoms you have, the less likely it is that your sore throat is a strep infection.

In some cases of strep infection, a skin rash develops and spreads over the neck and chest and eventually over the whole body. The rash feels rough like sandpaper. This condition is called scarlet fever. Scarlet fever is treated with antibiotics. This usually leads to a quick recovery. Scarlet fever is not dangerous if treated.

What Happens

Symptoms of strep throat usually begin within 2 to 5 days after you come in contact with someone who has a strep infection. Strep throat usually goes away in 3 to 7 days with or without antibiotic treatment. In contrast, if allergies or irritants are the cause of your sore throat, it will usually last longer unless the cause is eliminated.

If strep throat isn’t treated with antibiotics, you will continue to be contagious for 2 to 3 weeks even if your symptoms go away. You are much less contagious within 24 hours after you start antibiotics and are less likely to develop complications of the strep infection.

Complications of strep throat

Complications of strep throat are rare but can occur, especially if your throat infection isn’t properly treated with antibiotics. Complications can occur when the strep infection spreads to other parts of the body and causes other infections, such as an ear or sinus infection or an abscess near the tonsils (peritonsillar abscess). Complications can also result in your immune system attacking itself and causing serious conditions such as rheumatic fever.

Treating strep throat can greatly reduce your risk for rheumatic fever and its complications. It is not clear whether treating the strep infection with antibiotics reduces your risk for inflammation of the kidneys (acute glomerulonephritis).

What Increases Your Risk

Your risk of getting strep throat increases if you come in close contact with others, especially children, who have a strep infection.

The size of a child’s tonsils isn’t a risk factor for throat infections. Children or adults who have had their tonsils removed can still get strep throat.

When should you call your doctor?

Call your doctor today if you have:

Call a doctor if the following symptoms develop 1 to 2 weeks or longer after a strep throat infection. These symptoms may indicate rheumatic fever.

  • Weakness
  • Shortness of breath
  • Joint pain
  • Raised red rash or lumps under the skin
  • Uncontrolled, jerking movements of the arms or legs

Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve after 2 days of treatment with an antibiotic.

Watchful waiting

Watchful waiting is appropriate if your sore throat occurs with symptoms like those of a cold, such as sneezing, coughing, and a runny or stuffy nose. In general, the more of these symptoms you have, the less likely it is that your sore throat is caused by a strep infection. You can try home treatment if your sore throat is not severe and you have other symptoms of a cold.

Who to see

The following health professionals can evaluate a sore throat, do quick tests or throat cultures, and prescribe antibiotic treatment if needed:

If surgery to remove chronically enlarged or infected tonsils or adenoids is suggested, you may be referred to an otolaryngologist.

Exams and Tests

Strep throat is diagnosed from your medical history, a physical exam of your throat, and a lab test, such as a throat culture. Sometimes a rapid strep test is used to check for strep. Your doctor may confirm the results of the rapid strep test with a throat culture.

Current treatment guidelines recommend that your doctor confirm strep throat with a lab test, such as a throat culture, and not diagnose strep throat just from your symptoms. But your doctor may begin treatment for strep throat before the result of your throat culture is back if you have three or four of the following symptoms:

  • A recent fever of 101°F (38.3°C) or higher
  • White or yellow spots or coating on the throat or tonsils
  • Swollen or tender lymph nodes on the neck
  • Absence of signs of a cold or upper respiratory infection, such as coughing or sneezing

One or both of the following tests are used to confirm that you have strep throat.

  • Rapid strep test analyzes the bacteria in your throat to see if strep is the cause of your sore throat. The doctor uses a cotton swab to gather cells from the back of your throat for testing.
  • Throat culture is a test to find germs (such as strep bacteria) that can cause an infection. A sample of cells from the back of your throat is added to a substance that promotes the growth of bacteria. If no bacteria grow, the culture is negative. If strep bacteria grow, the culture is positive.

If symptoms of strep throat are present, it is important to be tested for strep infection. Prompt treatment will reduce the spread of strep throat and may reduce the risk of complications, such as the infection spreading to other parts of your body causing ear or sinus infections or an abscess behind or around your tonsils (peritonsillar abscess).

If you need to be tested for strep throat, the choice between a rapid strep test and a throat culture may not be clear. It may help to discuss with your doctor the advantages and disadvantages of each test. For instance, results from a rapid strep test are available within 10 to 15 minutes, and results from a throat culture may take 1 to 2 days. A throat culture is more accurate.

  • A negative rapid strep test result can mean there are no strep bacteria present. But the rapid strep test can give negative results even when strep bacteria are present (false-negative test results). If the rapid strep test result is negative but strep throat is still suspected, your doctor may order a throat culture to verify the results.
  • If the rapid strep test result is positive, a throat culture isn’t needed. Antibiotic treatment can be started right away. Antibiotics may not make you well faster. But they shorten the time you are able to spread the disease to others. Antibiotics also lower the risk of spreading the infection to other parts of your body.

Testing is not needed:

  • After antibiotic treatment, unless you still have symptoms. Testing may be done if symptoms return or you have had rheumatic fever and are at risk for it coming back.
  • For a person who was exposed to strep but has no symptoms. For instance, family members of a person who has strep throat do not need to be tested unless they start to have symptoms.

It is possible for a person to carry the strep bacteria and not have any symptoms. If a number of infections occur in the same family, or if there have been severe complications such as rheumatic fever or toxic shock syndrome, it may be helpful to test family members to learn whether they are carriers of strep infection. But it is unusual for a person to catch strep throat from a carrier.

Treatment Overview

Antibiotics such as amoxicillin, cephalexin, or penicillin are used to treat strep throat. Antibiotics work only against bacterial infections such as strep throat. They will not help sore throats caused by allergies or viral infections such as colds.

Antibiotics are commonly used to:

  • Kill the bacteria and shorten the time you are contagious. You are typically no longer contagious 24 hours after you start antibiotics.
  • Prevent rare complications. Although uncommon, strep bacteria can spread to other parts of your body, causing ear or sinus infections or an abscess behind or around the tonsils (peritonsillar abscess). Antibiotics may also prevent the infection from triggering your immune system to attack itself and cause serious conditions such as rheumatic fever.
  • Relieve discomfort and speed healing to some degree.

Antibiotic treatment can begin immediately if a strep infection is confirmed by a rapid strep test. But there is no harm in waiting for the results of a throat culture to confirm strep throat before starting antibiotic treatment. In fact, it is better to wait until strep throat has been confirmed so that antibiotics are not used unnecessarily. Overuse of antibiotics can make them ineffective.

Although waiting to treat strep throat may prolong the time you have the illness, delaying treatment for a few days doesn’t increase the risk of rheumatic fever or other complications.

Your doctor also may recommend nonprescription medicines such as acetaminophen or anesthetic throat sprays to help relieve the pain and discomfort caused by strep throat. Acetaminophen will also reduce fever. Be safe with medicines. Read and follow all instructions on the label.

For more information, see:

Prevention

To avoid getting strep throat, it is a good idea to avoid contact with anyone who has a strep infection.

Wash your hands often when you are around people with colds or viral or bacterial illnesses. Do not share toothbrushes or eating and drinking utensils.

  • Bacteria are almost always transmitted by contact with tiny droplets from an infected person. Strep throat is passed from one person to another by contact with the tiny droplets of an infected person’s cough, sneeze, or breath.
  • Bacteria can also live for a short time on doorknobs, water faucets, and other objects. If you touch an infected object and then touch your eyes, nose, or mouth, you can become infected with the bacteria or virus.
  • Bacteria can also be carried on food.

Keep up your body’s resistance to infection with a good diet, plenty of sleep, and regular exercise. Managing stress can also strengthen your body’s ability to fight off illness, such as strep throat.

Humidify your home during the dry winter months or year-round if you live in a dry climate. Moisture in the air (humidity) helps keep your mucous membranes moist and more resistant to bacteria. You can use a humidifier in the bedroom while you sleep. But use care if a person in the home has asthma or allergies, because mold or other particles that collect in the humidifier can make these conditions worse. Clean humidifiers on a regular basis.

Stop smoking, and avoid breathing others’ smoke. Smoke irritates the throat tissues and may make you more likely to get infection.

Home Treatment

Your doctor may have prescribed an antibiotic for strep throat. Take all of the antibiotic exactly as prescribed. This will help prevent the infection from coming back and will prevent complications of infection that could occur if you do not take the medicine as prescribed.

There are many ways that you can make yourself feel better while you are waiting for the strep infection to go away.

  • Drink plenty of fluids and increase humidity (moisture in the air) in your home to help keep your throat moist. Herbal teas formulated for colds may help relieve symptoms.
  • Get plenty of rest. Stay home the first day of antibiotic treatment. You are still contagious and might pass the infection to others. Rest in bed if you feel very sick. Bed rest is not required if you feel fine.
  • Take nonprescription medicines to relieve a painful sore throat and reduce fever. Be safe with medicines. Read and follow all instructions on the label.
  • Try an over-the-counter anesthetic throat spray or throat lozenges, which may help relieve throat pain. Do not give lozenges to children younger than age 4. If your child is younger than age 2, ask your doctor if you can give your child numbing medicines.

For more information on nonprescription medicines and other ways to relieve sore throat symptoms, see the topic Strep Throat: Home Treatment.

For the first 24 hours after you start taking an antibiotic, you are still contagious. You can avoid passing the strep throat infection to others and reinfecting yourself by:

  • Avoiding sneezing or coughing on others.
  • Washing your hands often.
  • Using tissues you can throw away, not handkerchiefs.
  • Using a new toothbrush as soon as you feel sick. Replace it again when you are well. You can also clean your toothbrush well before using it again. Bacteria can collect on the bristles and reinfect you.

Medications

Antibiotics are the treatment of choice for a confirmed strep throat infection.

  • Antibiotics will reduce the time you are contagious. You are usually not contagious 24 hours after starting antibiotics.
  • Antibiotic treatment for strep throat can also help prevent some of the rare complications related either to the strep infection itself or to the body’s immune response to the infection. Complications of strep throat are rare but can occur, especially if strep throat is not properly treated.
  • Antibiotics may shorten the time you are sick by about one day.

When antibiotics may be used

Antibiotics may be used in the following situations:

  • You have had a positive rapid strep test or positive throat culture.
  • You have three or more of the following signs or symptoms:
    • A recent fever
    • White or yellow spots or coating on the throat or tonsils
    • Swollen or tender lymph nodes on the neck
    • Absence of signs of a cold or other upper respiratory illness, such as coughing or sneezing
  • You have recently had rheumatic fever and have been exposed to strep. Preventive antibiotics may be given in some cases.
  • Several family members are having repeated strep infections as confirmed by positive throat cultures.

It is possible for you to carry the strep bacteria in the throat and not have any symptoms. Antibiotics for the carrier state are usually not needed unless you have a history of rheumatic fever or frequent infections or infections are occurring frequently in the family.

For more information, see:

Medicine choices

Antibiotics such as amoxicillin, cephalexin, or penicillin are used to treat strep throat infection.

What to think about

Immediate treatment with an antibiotic after a positive rapid strep test may not make you well faster. But it will shorten the time you are able to spread the disease to others. Antibiotics also lower the risk of the infection spreading to other parts of your body. But there is no harm in delaying medicine treatment 1 to 2 days to wait for the results of a throat culture. Antibiotics will prevent rheumatic fever even if it is started up to 9 days after symptoms begin.

Surgery

If strep throat continues to recur, you and your doctor may decide that you need surgery to remove the tonsils (tonsillectomy). Surgery is considered when you:

  • Have recurring episodes of strep throat or tonsillitis in a single year despite antibiotic treatment.
  • Have abscesses around the tonsils that do not respond to drainage, or if an abscess is present in addition to other signs that you may need tonsillectomy.
  • Have persistent bad odor or taste in the mouth, which is caused by tonsillitis that does not respond to antibiotics.
  • Need a biopsy to evaluate a suspected tumor of the tonsil.

Large tonsils are not an indication for tonsillectomy unless they are causing one of the above problems or they are blocking the upper airway, which can cause sleep apnea or problems with eating.

Surgery choices

Tonsillectomy may be done in some cases of strep throat.

An abscess around the tonsils (peritonsillar abscess) may be treated with a simple procedure in which a small incision is made to drain the abscess, although removing the tonsils is appropriate in some of these cases.

What to think about

Tonsillectomy is no longer routine for children who have frequent sore throats. Surgery has been shown to reduce the number of throat infections for 2 years. But over time many children who did not have surgery also had fewer throat infections.footnote 1

When you are trying to decide whether to have your or your child’s tonsils removed, consider:

  • How much time you or your child is missing from work or school because of throat infections.
  • How much stress and inconvenience the illness places on the family.

The risks of surgery must also be weighed against the risks of leaving the tonsils in. In some cases of persistent strep throat infections, especially if there are other complications, surgery may be the best choice.

References

Citations

  1. Baugh RF, et al. (2011). Clinical practice guideline: Tonsillectomy in children. Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery, 144(IS): S1–S30.

Credits

Current as of:
December 2, 2020

Author: Healthwise Staff
Medical Review:
Kathleen Romito MD – Family Medicine
E. Gregory Thompson MD – Internal Medicine
Adam Husney MD – Family Medicine
Donald R. Mintz MD – Otolaryngology

90,000 Chronic tonsillitis: how to live with it?

There is probably no person in the world who would not have suffered a sore throat at least once in his life.

Angina (acute tonsillitis) is an acute general infectious disease with local inflammation of the palatine tonsils.

Chronic tonsillitis is a general infectious-allergic disease with local manifestations in the form of persistent inflammation of the tonsils.

How does chronic inflammation of the tonsils develop?

Streptococcus bacteria are the main causative agents of chronic tonsillitis.Other types of bacteria, fungi and intracellular parasites, as well as their various combinations, are less common. The participation of viruses in the development of chronic tonsillitis is reduced to a decrease in local immunity in the palatine tonsils, which contributes to the penetration and reproduction of bacteria in them.

The origin of chronic inflammation is based on the violation of local immunity in the tonsils. With a decrease in local protection, microorganisms in the palatine tonsils multiply, their waste products damage the tissue of the tonsils, the dead cells and microorganisms slough off into a kind of cracks (crypts) and lacunae of the tonsils.Accidental cells clog the lumen of the lacunae of the tonsils, scarring occurs in them, self-cleaning becomes difficult. As a result of prolonged inflammation, pathological immune responses occur. The immune system begins to produce specific proteins and their compounds (antibodies and immune complexes), which are not aimed at destroying pathogens, but against the body’s own tissues. Violation of the barrier function of the tonsils leads to the absorption of toxic waste products of microorganisms into the bloodstream, spread throughout the body and the occurrence of general intoxication (increased body temperature, increased fatigue, decreased appetite).

Thus, local inflammation of the palatine tonsils becomes general. The heart, kidneys, joints and lungs are most commonly affected.

What factors contribute to the onset of chronic tonsillitis?

Any general factors that weaken the resistance (resistance) of the body can contribute to the chronicity of inflammation: hypothermia, overexertion, malnutrition, lack of vitamins, adverse environmental conditions, frequent viral diseases, various congenital and acquired immunodeficiencies, diabetes mellitus and other chronic diseases.

Chronic diseases of the nasal cavity, paranasal sinuses and nasopharynx can lead to chronic tonsillitis. The exclusion of the nasal cavity and paranasal sinuses from the act of breathing, where humidification, warming and purification of the air occurs, leads to the fact that unprepared air saturated with microbes gets through the mouth onto the palatine tonsils. In addition, mucus or pus flowing down the back of the pharynx during chronic inflammatory processes of the overlying parts of the respiratory system leads to contact infection.

Some diseases of the dental-jaw system (caries, pulpitis) can affect the occurrence of inflammation in the tonsils.

Diseases of the digestive system can contribute to the appearance of chronic tonsillitis. For example, in gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), acidic gastric or alkaline contents from the duodenum are thrown first into the esophagus, and then into the mouth and laryngopharynx. Aggressive contents of the stomach and duodenum damages the surface layer of the tonsils and promotes the penetration of microorganisms into them.

What are the symptoms of chronic tonsillitis?

If the barrier function of the palatine tonsils is preserved, the disease is characterized only by local symptoms that do not manifest themselves in any way and can only be detected by an ENT doctor. Bad breath may appear, associated with clogging of the lacunae of the palatine tonsils with pathological contents (pus or caseous masses), as well as discomfort when swallowing and sore throat.

In case of violation of the barrier function of the tonsils, frequent tonsillitis, paratonsillar abscesses occur, when inflammation passes from the palatine tonsils to the surrounding tissue with subsequent purulent fusion.Being absorbed from the tonsils into the bloodstream, toxins cause general malaise, fever, recurrent joint pain, loss of appetite and weakness. Functional disorders of the cardiovascular system may occur, which are manifested by palpitations, cardiac arrhythmias, and ECG changes. In some cases, chronic tonsillitis develops rheumatism, arthritis (inflammation of the joints), nephritis (inflammation of the kidneys), and sepsis.

Microorganisms and products of their vital activity, possessing antigenic properties, lead to general allergization of the human body.

It should be noted that there are such forms of chronic tonsillitis, in which angina does not occur, and the defeat of other internal organs is already taking place.

The focus of chronic infection in the tonsils affects the work of all organs and systems and in all cases aggravates any diseases occurring in the body.

What are the treatments for chronic inflammation of the tonsils?

With compensated forms of tonsillitis, when the process is limited only to the defeat of the palatine tonsils, and their barrier function is preserved, conservative treatment is carried out.

Treatment should begin with the elimination of predisposing factors: elimination of diseases of the nasal cavity, nasopharynx, treatment of affected teeth, gastroesophageal reflux disease and others.

Twice a year, the lacunae of the tonsils are washed with various antimicrobial drugs. Currently, they use Tonsillor treatment, laser and cryotherapy, as well as photodynamic therapy.

In the absence of the effect of conservative treatment, as well as when the tonsils cease to perform their functions and represent a source of infection for the body, they are removed – tonsillectomy.For surgical treatment, various radio wave and plasma scalpels are used, which can reduce blood loss during the operation.

Clinical experience and scientific data indicate the absence of serious general and local negative consequences for the body after removal of the tonsils.

CONTRAINDICATIONS ARE AVAILABLE, SPECIALIST CONSULTATION REQUIRED

symptoms and treatment in adults

Chronic tonsillitis is a disease characterized by prolonged inflammation of the tonsils. It develops after untreated acute tonsillitis (tonsillitis) or an inflammatory process of the structures of the nasopharynx and oropharynx. As a rule, pathogenic bacteria on the tonsils are in a “dormant” state, but with hypothermia of the whole body or the oral cavity, with injuries of the oral cavity, decreased immunity, or due to other factors, they are activated and cause an acute inflammatory process.

Having found the symptoms of the disease, you must immediately consult a doctor: the lack of treatment leads to serious complications requiring surgical intervention, and even to damage to internal organs, since the infection spreads further throughout the body.

Causes of chronic tonsillitis in adults

  1. Infections, including tonsillitis . They are especially dangerous if the patient has self-medicated and selected the wrong therapy, or if he has not completely cured the disease.
  2. Frequent pharyngitis . If you have a sore throat, we also recommend that you do not self-medicate, and make an appointment with a doctor, especially if you suffer from pharyngitis several times a year.
  3. Allergy .It can also cause injury as it affects the immune system and reduces the body’s ability to fight off infections.
  4. Diseases of the dentition . Caries, periodontitis and other diseases of the teeth and gums are characterized by the development of infections in the oral cavity. If left untreated, the infection can spread to other organs and tissues.
  5. Low immunity . The body’s ability to resist infection decreases after an illness (for example, measles, scarlet fever, etc.)) or in other stressful situations for the body (for example, with hypothermia, overwork, improper diet, regular stressful situations, prolonged use of certain medications).
  6. Inflammation in the sinuses, adenoids, sinusitis, polyps, etc. We recommend not to ignore even frequent runny nose and consult a doctor promptly.
  7. Curved nasal septum . Such a violation can lead to impaired ventilation of the nasopharynx and the accumulation of pathogenic bacteria.
  8. Inheritance . In about 3% of cases, tonsillitis is not caused by external factors, but is inherited from close relatives.

Symptoms and complications of tonsillitis

Symptoms of chronic tonsillitis in adults

  1. Regular or persistent sore throat, pain or discomfort while eating or in the morning after sleep, sensation of a foreign object in the throat.
  2. Inflammation, enlargement, soreness of the lymph nodes.
  3. White bloom or yellowish lumps in the throat, abscesses, etc.
  4. Frequent cough, frequent (three times a year) sore throats.
  5. An increase in body temperature in the absence of other diseases, especially if it rises only in the late afternoon.
  6. Irritability, fatigue, drowsiness, lethargy and other signs of decreased immunity.
  7. . Shortness of breath, heart rhythm disturbance.
  8. Bad breath.This effect is exerted by accumulating bacteria.
  9. Other pathologies. Parasitic microorganisms can easily enter the body and cause damage to other tissues and organs, therefore patients often complain of pain and “aches” in the joints, pain in the kidneys, persistent allergies and skin diseases, tingling and pain in the heart.

Complications

The most common complication is paratonsillar abscess.It is initially similar to angina, since at the initial stage it is characterized by an increase in body temperature and severe sore throat. But in the absence of timely treatment, the amygdala swells, and the pain becomes stronger: often patients cannot not only swallow, but even sleep or open their mouths. An abscess requires hospital treatment.

But this is not the only complication. The infection can easily spread throughout the patient’s body, which is fraught with a variety of pathologies and lesions of internal organs. The most common complications include skin diseases (eczema, psoriasis, etc.), diseases of the genitourinary system, changes in the functions of the thyroid gland, arthritis (inflammation of the joint tissue), inflammation of the heart tissue (endocarditis, myocarditis).

Diagnostics

The doctor makes the diagnosis not only on the basis of complaints, medical history and general condition of the patient, but also taking into account the test results – this is the only way to be sure of its correctness.

First of all, the specialist conducts palpation of the lymph nodes and a visual examination under special lighting (pharyngoscopy).If the tonsils are enlarged, their tissue is loosened, reddened, there are thickenings, swelling, scar tissue, grooves, pus (especially with an unpleasant odor), curd-like discharge, etc., this may indicate the presence of chronic tonsillitis.

Analyzes for chronic tonsillitis

  1. General and biochemical blood tests. They show the level of leukocytes, ESR, etc., tell the doctor about the degree of the inflammatory process and the reaction of the immune system.
  2. Throat swab. As a rule, pus has a slimy structure and smells unpleasant. The analysis also allows you to determine the type of microbes – usually we are talking about streptococcal infection or staphylococcus. The study also provides information about the general condition of the throat – a long-term chronic illness can provoke the development of other diseases, and it is important to identify them in a timely manner.
  3. Urinalysis. It shows the level of lymphocytes, ESR and protein, helps to determine the activity of parasitic microorganisms and to clarify whether they have penetrated into other tissues and organs or not.

It is recommended to stop drinking alcohol three days before the examination, and two hours before the examination – from smoking and treating the throat with local medications.

Conservative treatment of chronic tonsillitis

The simplest and most popular treatment is tonsil lavage. This is not a one-time procedure, it is followed by a course, and the doctor selects the number of sessions individually. Washing does not always contribute to complete recovery, but even in this case it has a positive effect: it normalizes the patient’s well-being and condition, gives the body strength and reserves for recovery, and avoids surgery and relapses.

Some doctors use syringe flushing. But practice shows that this method does not always allow you to completely clear the affected area from infection, and some bacteria remain, which means that the disease can return. In the Rehabilitation Clinic in Khamovniki, washing is carried out using the Tonsilor apparatus. It uses vacuum and low-frequency ultrasound and works pointwise: with it, the doctor can treat only the affected tissues (palatine tonsils) without touching healthy areas.

The advantages of washing with the Tonsilor apparatus:

  1. High efficiency . The device allows you to completely flush the tonsil.
  2. Active influence . Low-frequency ultrasound exposure inactivates pathogenic bacteria and initiates recovery processes.
  3. Complexity . Several antiseptics act on the tissue of the tonsil at once.
  4. Security .Ulcers, pathogenic bacteria and microbes do not come into contact with the patient’s oral cavity.

At the first stage of treatment, “Tonsilor” washes the tonsils, further ultrasound influence on the tissues allows:

  • improve blood microcirculation at the site of exposure;
  • to reduce the formation of scar tissue in the tonsils;
  • Improve the regenerative regeneration of the amygdala parenchyma.

All this ensures quick healing.

The doctor can also prescribe medications if necessary. They allow you to normalize body temperature, have an analgesic effect, reduce edema, increase immunity, etc. In some cases, physiotherapeutic treatment is indicated: electrophoresis, laser therapy, UHF, UFO, magnetic therapy, etc.

Full recovery is possible only if the cause of the disease is eliminated, for example, caries, pharyngitis, etc. Proper nutrition, hardening of the body, quitting smoking and drinking alcohol, moderate physical activity helps to improve immunity and avoid the re-development of the disease.

Contraindications

Any medical intervention, including washing with the Tonsilor apparatus, has a number of contraindications. Therefore, before treatment, each patient is examined by a doctor. He studies the history of the disease, concomitant diseases, the general condition of the patient, the presence of indications and contraindications, and only then selects the optimal treatment program, the most suitable and effective method for washing the tonsils in each particular case.

Rehabilitation Clinic in Khamovniki

Chronic tonsillitis treatment in Moscow is carried out by various clinics.Contact the one whose specialists you trust. Doctors of the Rehabilitation Clinic in Khamovniki have extensive experience, regularly improve their qualifications and are attentive to each patient, achieving high results. We use only modern equipment, we follow all the novelties and the latest techniques and use the best of them in our practice.

90,000 Prevention of streptococcal (group A) infection

Prevention of streptococcal (group A) infection

Streptococcal infections – a group of diseases that includes infections caused by streptococcal flora of various types and manifested in the form of damage to the respiratory tract and skin.Streptococcal infections include streptococcal impetigo, streptoderma, streptococcal vasculitis, rheumatism, glomerulonephritis, erysipelas, sore throat, scarlet fever and other diseases. Streptococcal infections are dangerous with a tendency to develop post-infectious complications from various organs and systems. Therefore, diagnostics includes not only the identification of the pathogen, but also instrumental examination of the cardiovascular, respiratory and urinary systems.

Characteristics of the causative agent

Streptococcus is a genus of facultative anaerobic gram-positive globular microorganisms that are resistant to the environment.Streptococci are resistant to desiccation, persist in dried biological materials (sputum, pus) for several months. At a temperature of 60 ° C. die after 30 minutes, under the influence of chemical disinfectants – after 15 minutes.
Source of streptococcal infection – a carrier of streptococcal bacteria or a person who is sick with one of the forms of infection.
Gear mechanism – aerosol. The pathogen is secreted by the patient when coughing, sneezing, during a conversation. Infection occurs by airborne droplets, therefore the main sources of infection are people with a predominant lesion of the upper respiratory tract ( angina , scarlet fever).At the same time, it is no longer possible to become infected at a distance of more than three meters. In some cases, it is possible to implement alimentary and contact transmission routes (through dirty hands, contaminated food). For group A streptococci, when some food products (milk, eggs, shellfish, ham, etc.) enter a favorable nutrient medium, reproduction and long-term preservation of virulent properties are characteristic.
The likelihood of purulent complications during infection with streptococci is high in people with burns, wounds, pregnant women, newborns, patients after surgery.Group B streptococci usually cause infections of the genitourinary tract and can be transmitted through sexual intercourse. Newborns often get infections as a result of infection of the amniotic fluid and during the passage of the birth canal. The natural susceptibility of a person to streptococcal bacteria is high, the immunity is type-specific and does not prevent infection with streptococci of another species.

Clinical forms of streptococcal infection

The symptoms of streptococcal infections are extremely diverse due to the large number of possible localizations of the focus of infection, the types of pathogen.In addition, the intensity of clinical manifestations depends on the general condition of the infected organism. Group A streptococci are prone to damage to the upper respiratory tract, hearing aid, skin (streptoderma), this group includes the causative agents of scarlet fever and erysipelas.
Diseases developed as a result of damage by these microorganisms can be divided into primary and secondary forms. Primary forms represent a failure of inflammatory infectious diseases of organs that have become the gateway of infection (pharyngitis, laryngitis, tonsillitis, otitis media, impetigo, etc.).etc.). Secondary forms develop as a result of the inclusion of autoimmune and toxic-septic mechanisms of the development of inflammation in various organs and systems. Secondary forms of streptococcal infections with an autoimmune mechanism of development include rheumatism, glomerulonephritis and streptococcal vasculitis. Toxin-infectious character are necrotic lesions of soft tissues, meta- and peritonsillar abscesses, streptococcal sepsis.
Rare clinical forms of streptococcal infections: necrotic inflammation of muscles and fascia, enteritis, toxic shock syndrome, focal infections of organs and tissues (for example, soft tissue abscess).Group B streptococci overwhelmingly cause infections in newborns, although they occur at any age. This is due to the predominant lesion of this pathogen of the genitourinary tract and intrapartum infection of newborns.
Group B streptococcal infections are often the cause of postpartum endometritis, cystitis, adnexitis in puerperas and complications in the postoperative period during caesarean section. In addition, streptococcal bacteremia can be observed in persons with a pronounced weakening of the body’s immune properties (elderly people, patients with diabetes mellitus, immunodeficiency syndrome, malignant neoplasms).Often, against the background of ongoing ARVI, streptococcal pneumonia develops. Greening streptococcus can cause endocarditis and subsequent valvular defects. Streptococcus mutans cause caries.
Complications of streptococcal infections are autoimmune and toxicoseptic secondary lesions of organs and systems (rheumatism, glomerulonephritis, necrotic myositis and fasciitis, sepsis, etc.).

Diagnosis of streptococcal infections

Etiological diagnosis of streptococcal infection of the pharyngeal mucosa and skin requires a bacteriological study with the isolation and identification of the pathogen.An exception is scarlet fever. Since many streptococcal bacteria have now acquired some resistance to certain groups of antibiotics, a thorough microbiological examination and an antibiotic susceptibility test are necessary. A sufficient amount of diagnostics contributes to the choice of effective treatment tactics.
Express diagnostics of group A streptococci allow to establish the pathogen within 15-20 minutes from the moment of taking the analysis without isolating a pure culture.However, the identification of the presence of streptococci does not always mean that they are the etiological factor of the pathological process, this fact can also speak about the usual carrier. Rheumatism and glomerulonephritis are almost always characterized by an increase in the titer of antibodies to streptococci from the first days of exacerbation. The titer of antibodies to extracellular antigens is determined using a neutralization reaction. If necessary, an examination of the organs affected by streptococcal infection is carried out: examination by an otolaryngologist, X-ray of the lungs, ultrasound of the bladder, ECG, etc.

Treatment of streptococcal infections

Depending on the form of streptococcal infection, treatment is carried out by a gynecologist, urologist, dermatologist, pulmonologist or other specialists. Pathogenetic and symptomatic treatment depends on the clinical form of the disease.

Prevention of streptococcal infections

Prevention of streptococcal infection:

  • personal hygiene measures
  • individual prophylaxis in case of contacts in a narrow group with persons with respiratory diseases: wearing a mask, processing dishes and surfaces that could get microorganisms, washing hands with soap.

General prevention consists in the implementation of systematic control over the state of health of the collectives: preventive examinations in schools and kindergartens, isolation of identified patients, adequate treatment measures, identification of latent forms of streptococcal infection and their treatment.
Particular attention should be paid to the prevention of nosocomial infection with streptococcal infection, since infection in a hospital in a patient in a weakened state is many times more likely, and the course of infection in such patients is noticeably more severe.Prevention of infection of women in labor and newborns consists in careful observance of sanitary and hygienic standards and regimen developed for gynecological departments and maternity hospitals.
Angina is an infectious-allergic process, local changes in which affect the pharyngeal lymphoid ring, most often the palatine tonsils. The course of angina is characterized by an increase in body temperature, general intoxication syndrome, sore throat when swallowing, enlargement and soreness of the cervical lymph nodes.Examination reveals hyperemia and hypertrophy of the tonsils and palatine arches, sometimes purulent plaque. Angina is diagnosed by an otolaryngologist on the basis of pharyngoscopy and bacteriological culture from the pharynx. With angina, local treatment is indicated (rinsing the throat, washing the lacunae, treating the tonsils with drugs), antibiotic therapy, physiotherapy.

Sore throat

Angina is a group of acute infectious diseases that are accompanied by inflammation of one or more tonsils of the pharyngeal ring.The tonsils are usually affected. Less commonly, inflammation develops in the nasopharyngeal, laryngeal or lingual tonsils. The causative agents of the disease penetrate into the tissue of the tonsils from the outside (exogenous infection) or from the inside (endogenous infection). From person to person, angina is transmitted by airborne droplets or alimentary (food). With endogenous infection, microbes enter the tonsils from carious teeth, sinuses (with sinusitis) or the nasal cavity. When immunity is weakened, angina can be caused by bacteria and viruses that are constantly present on the mucous membrane of the mouth and pharynx.

Classification of sore throats

In otolaryngology, there are three types of angina:

Primary tonsillitis (other names are banal, simple or ordinary tonsillitis). Acute inflammatory disease of a bacterial nature. Characterized by signs of a general infection and symptoms of damage to the lymphoid tissue of the pharyngeal ring.

Secondary tonsillitis (symptomatic tonsillitis). It is one of the manifestations of another disease.Some acute infectious diseases (infectious mononucleosis, diphtheria, scarlet fever), diseases of the blood system (leukemia, alimentary toxic aleukia, agranulocytosis) may be accompanied by the defeat of the tonsils.

Specific tonsillitis . The disease is caused by a specific infectious agent (fungi, spirochete, etc.).

Primary tonsillitis

Reasons

About 85% of all primary sore throats are caused by ß-hemolytic group A streptococcus.In other cases, pneumococcus, Staphylococcus aureus or mixed flora acts as the causative agent. Primary tonsillitis in terms of prevalence is in second place after ARVI. It develops more often in spring and autumn. It mainly affects children and adults under the age of 35. Usually transmitted by airborne droplets. Sometimes it develops as a result of endogenous infection. The likelihood of sore throat increases with general and local hypothermia, decreased immunity, hypovitaminosis, nasal breathing disorders, increased dry air, after suffering from acute respiratory viral infections.

The general symptoms of angina are caused by the penetration of microbial waste products into the bloodstream. Microbial toxins can cause toxic damage to the cardiovascular and nervous system, provoke the development of glomerulonephritis and rheumatism. The risk of complications increases with frequent relapses of streptococcal sore throat.

Classification

Depending on the depth and nature of the lesion of the lymphoid tissue of the pharyngeal ring, catarrhal, lacunar, follicular and necrotic primary angina are distinguished, depending on the severity – mild, moderate and severe angina.

Symptoms

The incubation period ranges from 12 hours to 3 days. Characterized by an acute onset with hyperthermia, chills, pain when swallowing, an increase in regional lymph nodes.

With catarrhal angina, subfebrile condition, moderate general intoxication, and mild signs of inflammation according to blood tests are observed. Pharyngoscopy reveals a diffuse bright hyperemia of the posterior pharyngeal wall, hard and soft palate.Catarrhal sore throat lasts for 1-2 days. The outcome may be recovery or transition to another form of angina (follicular or catarrhal).

For follicular and lacunar tonsillitis, more pronounced intoxication is characteristic. Patients complain of headache, general weakness, pain in joints, muscles and heart area. Hyperthermia up to 39-40C is noted. In the general analysis of blood, leukocytosis is determined with a shift to the left. ESR increases to 40-50 mm / h.

Pharyngoscopic examination of a patient with lacunar angina reveals severe hyperemia, expansion of lacunae, edema and infiltration of the tonsils.Purulent plaque spreads beyond the lacunae and forms a loose plaque on the surface of the tonsil. Plaque has the appearance of a film or separate small foci, does not extend beyond the amygdala, and is easily removed. When plaque is removed, the tonsil tissue does not bleed.

With follicular sore throat, pharyngoscopy reveals hypertrophy and pronounced swelling of the tonsils, the so-called picture of the “starry sky” (multiple white-yellow festering follicles). With spontaneous opening of the follicle, a purulent plaque is formed, which does not spread beyond the amygdala.

For necrotizing tonsillitis, severe intoxication is characteristic. Persistent fever, confusion, repeated vomiting are observed. The blood tests reveal a pronounced leukocytosis with a sharp shift to the left, neutrophilia, a significant increase in ESR. Pharyngoscopy reveals a dense gray or greenish-yellow coating with an uneven, dull, pitted surface. When plaque is removed, the tonsil tissue bleeds. After rejection of areas of necrosis, tissue defects of an irregular shape with a diameter of 1-2 cm remain.The spread of necrosis beyond the amygdala to the posterior pharyngeal wall, uvula and arch is possible.

Complications

Early complications of angina (otitis media, lymphadenitis of regional lymph nodes, sinusitis, paratonsillar abscess, peritonsillitis) occur during the illness when inflammation spreads to nearby organs and tissues. Late complications of angina of infectious and allergic genesis (glomerulonephritis, rheumatic heart disease, articular rheumatism) develop 3-4 weeks after the onset of the disease.

Diagnostics

Diagnosis is based on symptoms and pharyngoscopy. To confirm the nature of the infectious agent, a bacteriological examination of mucus from the tonsils and a serological blood test are performed.

Specific sore throats

Candidal (fungal) tonsillitis.

Caused by yeast-like fungi of the genus Candida albicans. In recent years, there has been an increase in the number of cases of candidal angina, due to the widespread use of glucocorticoids and antibiotics.Fungal tonsillitis, as a rule, develops against the background of another disease after long courses of antibiotic therapy.

General symptoms are not expressed or poorly expressed. Pharyngoscopic examination reveals dotted white or yellowish overlays on the tonsils, sometimes extending to the mucous membrane of the cheeks and tongue. Plaque is easily removed.

The diagnosis is confirmed by the results of mycological examination. Treatment consists in the abolition of antibiotics, the appointment of antifungal drugs, restorative therapy, washing the tonsils with solutions of nystatin and levorin.

Angina Simanovsky-Plaut-Vincent (ulcerative membranous tonsillitis).

Develops with chronic intoxication, exhaustion, hypovitaminosis, immunodeficiency. It is caused by representatives of the saprophytic flora of the oral cavity – the Vincent spirochete and the Plaut-Vincent stick, which are in symbiosis.

General symptoms are not expressed or poorly expressed. One amygdala is usually affected. On its surface, superficial ulcers are formed, covered with a gray-green bloom with a putrid odor.When removing plaque, the tonsil bleeds. After rejection of the necrotic area, a deep ulcer is formed, which subsequently heals without the formation of a defect.

Erysipelas

Erysipelas (erysipelas) is an infectious disease caused by group A streptococcus, mainly affecting the skin and mucous membranes, characterized by the occurrence of limited serous or serous-hemorrhagic inflammation, accompanied by fever and general intoxication.Erysipelas is one of the most common bacterial infections. Characteristic of the pathogen

Characteristics of the pathogen

Erysipelas is caused by group A beta-hemolytic streptococcus, most often of the species Streptococcus pyogenes, which has a diverse set of antigens, enzymes, endo- and exotoxins. This microorganism can be a constituent part of the normal flora of the oropharynx, be present on the skin of healthy people. The source of erysipelas infection is a person, both suffering from one of the forms of streptococcal infection, and a healthy carrier.

Erysipelas is transmitted by an aerosol mechanism, mainly by airborne droplets, sometimes by contact. The entrance gate for this infection is damage and microtrauma to the skin and mucous membranes of the oral cavity, nose, and genitals. Since streptococci often live on the surface of the skin and mucous membranes of healthy people, the risk of infection if basic hygiene is not observed is extremely high . The development of infection is facilitated by factors of individual predisposition.

Women get sick more often than men. The risk of developing erysipelas is 5-6 times higher in persons suffering from chronic tonsillitis and other streptococcal infections. Erysipelas of the face often develops in people with chronic diseases of the oral cavity, ENT organs, caries. The defeat of the chest and limbs often occurs in patients with lymphovenous insufficiency, lymphedema, edema of various origins, with fungal lesions of the feet, trophic disorders. Infection can develop in the area of ​​post-traumatic and postoperative scars.Some seasonality is noted: the peak incidence occurs in the second half of summer – early autumn.

The pathogen can enter the body through damaged integumentary tissues, or, in the presence of a chronic infection, penetrate into the capillaries of the skin with the blood flow. Streptococcus multiplies in the lymphatic capillaries of the dermis and forms a focus of infection, provoking active inflammation, or latent carriage. The active reproduction of bacteria contributes to the massive release of their metabolic products (exotoxins, enzymes, antigens) into the bloodstream.The consequence of this is intoxication, fever, the development of toxic-infectious shock is likely.

Erysipelas classification

Erysipelas is classified according to several criteria: by the nature of local manifestations (erythematous, erythematous-bullous, erythematous-hemorrhagic and bullous-hemorrhagic forms), by the severity of the course (mild, moderate and severe forms depending on the severity of intoxication), by the prevalence of the process (localized common, migratory (wandering, creeping) and metastatic).In addition, primary, repeated and recurrent erysipelas are distinguished.

Relapsing erysipelas is a recurrent episode from two days to two years after the previous episode, or relapse occurs later, but inflammation develops repeatedly in the same area. Repeated erysipelas occurs no earlier than two years later, or is localized in a place different from the previous episode.

Localized erysipelas is characterized by the limitation of infection to a local focus of inflammation in one anatomical region.When the focus leaves the boundaries of the anatomical region, the disease is considered common. Accession of phlegmon or necrotic changes in the affected tissues are considered complications of the underlying disease.

Symptoms of erysipelas

The incubation period is determined only in the case of post-traumatic erysipelas and ranges from several hours to five days. In the overwhelming majority of cases (more than 90%), erysipelas has an acute onset (the time of onset of clinical symptoms is noted to within hours), fever develops rapidly, accompanied by symptoms of intoxication (chills, headache, weakness, body aches).A severe course is characterized by the occurrence of vomiting of central origin, seizures, delirium. A few hours later (sometimes the next day), local symptoms appear: in a limited area of ​​the skin or mucous membrane, there is a burning sensation, itching, a feeling of bloating and moderate pain when feeling, pressing. Severe pain is characteristic of erysipelas of the scalp. There may be soreness of regional lymph nodes on palpation and movement. In the area of ​​the focus, erythema and swelling appear.

The peak period is characterized by the progression of intoxication, apathy, insomnia, nausea and vomiting, symptoms of the central nervous system (loss of consciousness, delirium). The area of ​​the focus is a dense, bright red spot with clearly defined uneven borders (a symptom of “flames” or “map”), with pronounced edema. The color of erythema can range from cyanotic (with lymphostasis) to brownish (with impaired trophism). There is a short-term (1-2 s) disappearance of redness after pressing.In most cases, compaction, limitation of mobility and pain are found on palpation of regional lymph nodes.

Fever and intoxication persist for about a week, after which the temperature returns to normal, regression of skin symptoms occurs somewhat later. Erythema leaves behind fine scaly peeling, sometimes pigmentation. Regional lymphadenitis and skin infiltration in some cases can persist for a long time, which is a sign of a probable early relapse.Persistent edema is a symptom of developing lymphostasis. Erysipelas is most often localized on the lower extremities, then, according to the frequency of development, there is an erysipelas of the face, upper extremities, chest (erysipelas of the chest is most typical with the development of lymphostasis in the area of ​​the postoperative scar).

Erythematous-hemorrhagic erysipelas is characterized by the presence of hemorrhages from the area of ​​the local focus against the background of general erythema: from small (petechiae) to extensive, confluent. Fever in this form of the disease is usually longer (up to two weeks) and the regression of clinical manifestations is noticeably slower.In addition, this form of erysipelas can be complicated by necrosis of local tissues.

In the erythematous-bullous form in the area of ​​erythema, vesicles (bulls) are formed, both small and rather large, with transparent contents of a serous nature. Bubbles appear 2-3 days after the formation of erythema, they open themselves, or they are opened with sterile scissors. Bulla scars with erysipelas usually do not leave. With a bullous-hemorrhagic form, the contents of the vesicles are serous-hemorrhagic in nature, and, often, are left after erosion and ulceration are opened.This form is often complicated by phlegmon or necrosis; after recovery, scars and areas of pigmentation may remain.

Regardless of the form of the disease, erysipelas has features of the course in different age groups. In old age, primary and repeated inflammation is usually more severe, with an extended period of fever (up to a month) and exacerbation of existing chronic diseases. Inflammation of the regional lymph nodes is usually not noted. The subsidence of clinical symptoms occurs slowly, relapses are frequent: early (in the first half of the year) and late.The frequency of relapses also varies from rare episodes to frequent (3 or more times per year) exacerbations. Often, recurrent erysipelas is considered chronic, while intoxication, often becomes quite moderate, erythema has no clear boundaries and is paler, the lymph nodes are not changed.

Complications of erysipelas

The most common complications of erysipelas are suppuration: abscesses and phlegmon, as well as necrotic lesions of the local focus, ulcers, pustules, inflammation of the veins (phlebitis and thrombophlebitis).Sometimes secondary pneumonia develops, with a significant weakening of the body, sepsis is possible.

Phlegmonous erysipelas: acute period.

Long-term lymph congestion, especially with a recurrent form, contributes to the occurrence of lymphedema and elephantiasis. Complications of lymphostasis also include hyperkeratosis, papilloma, eczema, and lymphorrhea. After clinical recovery, persistent pigmentation may remain on the skin.

Diagnosis of erysipelas

Erysipelas is usually diagnosed based on clinical symptoms. It may be necessary to consult a dermatologist to differentiate erysipelas from other skin conditions. Laboratory tests show signs of a bacterial infection. As a rule, no specific diagnostics and isolation of the pathogen are performed.

Forecast and prevention of erysipelas

Erysipelas of a typical course usually has a favorable prognosis and, with adequate therapy, ends with recovery.A less favorable prognosis occurs in the case of complications, elephantiasis and frequent relapses. The prognosis also worsens in debilitated patients, elderly people, people suffering from vitamin deficiencies, chronic diseases with intoxication, disorders of digestion and lymphovenous apparatus, and immunodeficiency. General prevention of erysipelas includes measures for the sanitary and hygienic regime of medical institutions, compliance with the rules of asepsis and antiseptics when treating wounds and abrasions, prevention and treatment of pustular diseases, caries, streptococcal infections.Individual prevention consists in maintaining personal hygiene and timely treatment of skin lesions with disinfectants.

90,000 7 myths about angina (KI Shustov) – Family Doctor clinic.

Autumn and spring are the most frequent times for sore throat, but in winter, the disease sometimes does not pass by. You can get sick at any age, but mostly young children, adolescents and adults under 30 years old suffer. Many myths are associated with angina. Kirill Shustov, an otolaryngologist at the Family Doctor clinic, will help us figure out what is true and what is not.

Myth 1: if the throat hurts, then it is sore throat

Not at all necessary. A sore throat can be a symptom of influenza, acute respiratory infections, pharyngitis (inflammation of the back of the throat) and other diseases. Angina, on the other hand, is an inflammation of the tonsils that are in the pharynx (palatine tonsils most often suffer).

Kirill Shustov “Also, pain in the throat can be of a reflex nature and occur during inflammatory processes in the muscles or lymph nodes of the neck.Therefore, for proper treatment, you should consult a doctor in a timely manner. ”

Myth 2: you can get sore throat only if you have close contact with the patient

This is not true. Most often, angina is transmitted by airborne droplets (microbes with droplets of saliva spread when talking, coughing or sneezing), so you can get infected without even approaching the patient “back to back”.

It must be remembered that microbes can also enter the body by contact.You cannot use one plate, fork and cup, as well as a towel and a handkerchief with a sick person.

Myth 3: Angina is not a reason to stay at home

Misconception. Many do not take this disease seriously – and completely in vain, because angina leads to various complications. The infection can penetrate the ears and cause otitis media, into the paranasal sinuses, provoking sinusitis, ethmoiditis, frontal sinusitis or sphenoiditis. If the microbes spread to the tissues surrounding the amygdala, an abscess will appear, and the help of a surgeon will already be required.

Kirill Shustov “If you carry a sore throat” on your feet “, then the likelihood of getting such serious complications as glomerulonephritis or endocarditis increases significantly.”

From all of the above, the conclusion suggests itself – with severe sore throat and high temperature, you need to go to the doctor, and observe bed rest for the entire period of treatment.

Myth 4: sore throat can be cured by yourself, for example, gargling

Gargling with sore throat is undoubtedly necessary, as this will accelerate recovery.Infusions of medicinal herbs are suitable – chamomile, eucalyptus, calendula or sage.

However, it is impossible to cure sore throat only by rinsing or resorption of lozenges, because these funds do not penetrate into the tonsils. And it is there that the multiplication of microbes occurs, which led to sore throat. That is why the disease requires taking antibiotics, which must be prescribed by a doctor.

Myth 5: antibiotics for angina can be used without a doctor’s prescription

This is totally wrong.Antibiotics can only be prescribed by a doctor. After all, the drug is selected based on the sensitivity of microbes to it. This is why the doctor takes a swab of the tonsils before prescribing an antibiotic. With its help, they find out which bacteria caused the sore throat and with what antibiotic they can be defeated.

Taking antibiotics on your own can be harmful. Often, the uncontrolled use of these drugs leads to the fact that microbes become insensitive to them.

Myth 6: as soon as the temperature has dropped, antibiotics for angina can be stopped

It is not right.

Kirill Shustov “In a few days the antibiotic will only weaken the pathogenic bacteria, and in order to defeat them, you need to take the drug for 7-10 days.”

It is very important to follow the antibiotic regimen. Some patients perceive the doctor’s prescription to take the drug three times a day differently. And they drink the medicine in the morning, at lunchtime and in the evening (and everyone has their own mealtime). For antibiotics, it is imperative that there are regular intervals between pills.That is, three times a day means – we drink an antibiotic at 7 am, at 3 pm and at 11 pm.

Myth 7: to avoid tonsillitis, you need to remove the tonsils

Kirill Shustov “Angina is an infectious disease, therefore such a radical measure as the removal of tonsils is absolutely not necessary to prevent it. If you follow such simple rules as wearing a mask in the presence of a sick person, washing your hands after contact with a sick person, eating from a separate dish, you can avoid getting sore throat.If you remove healthy tonsils, which are the basis of the barrier protection in the oropharynx, then you can greatly weaken the immune system. ”

You can make an appointment with a specialist by calling the contact center in Moscow +7 (495) 775 75 66, or through the on-line registration form. Departure to the house is possible.

Angina: How is angina transmitted?, Types of angina, Symptoms of angina

Angina is an infectious-allergic disease that mainly affects the area of ​​the palatine tonsils.As a rule, it is provoked by streptococci that enter the pharynx as a result of using objects shared with a sick person or by airborne droplets. Sometimes the disease is caused by microbes, which usually live in the throat of a healthy person, without causing concern, but are activated under the influence of factors such as hypothermia, weakened immunity, etc. Angina during pregnancy can complicate the development of the fetus.

How is angina spread?

Pathogenic microorganisms live in the tonsils of every person, including absolutely healthy, usually not showing themselves in any way.But if any provoking factors arise, then the pathogenic microflora is activated, as a result the tonsils become inflamed – angina develops.

Typically, the peak incidence occurs during the winter and off-season, when people cough and sneeze most often. This is due to the fact that angina is transmitted by airborne droplets. You can get infected from a loved one through kissing or sharing personal hygiene items.

Types of sore throat

There are no significant differences in the classification of the disease in children and adults.The disease can be catarrhal, lacunar, follicular, necrotic. The mildest is catarrhal, and the most severe is necrotic. Let us consider in detail what kind of angina is in children and adults.

  • Catarrhal sore throat – superficial lesions of the glands and moderate signs of intoxication, temperature up to 38 degrees, changes in the blood are insignificant. Examination of the throat reveals a bright hyperemia covering the back of the pharynx, hard and soft palate. The tonsils are enlarged mainly due to swelling and infiltration.
  • Lacunar and follicular tonsillitis. These types of tonsillitis have similar symptoms and often develop simultaneously: accompanied by temperatures up to 39-40 degrees, signs of intoxication are clearly expressed
  • Fibrinous tonsillitis – characterized by the presence of a whitish-yellow fibrinous plaque on the tonsils, regional lymphadenitis is observed. It should be noted the following feature of this type of angina – in children with severely weakened immunity, it occurs more often.This disease can result from lacunar sore throat or develop on its own.
  • Phlegmonous tonsillitis – purulent fusion of the tonsil area. Mostly people in the age range from 15 to 40 are affected. The amygdala is hyperemic, enlarged, painful on palpation. The throat hurts badly when talking and swallowing, signs of intoxication are pronounced. The patient’s temperature rises to an alarming level of 39-40 degrees.
  • Necrotic tonsillitis. In this case, the general and local symptoms are more pronounced than in the above forms. The patient is observed: a stable febrile state, signs of confusion, constant vomiting. A plaque with a pitted surface is found on the tonsils. Its color can be grayish or greenish-yellow. The affected areas are often impregnated with fibrin, that is, they become dense.

Causes of sore throat

The main cause of angina is various viruses, sometimes it can be bacteria, of which hemolytic streptococcus occurs in 80% of cases.In the secondary form of angina, the causes can be infectious diseases and blood diseases: scarlet fever, measles, mononucleosis, diphtheria, syphilis, agranulocytosis and leukemia.

Angina is transmitted by airborne droplets, through food and water, as well as through communication and contact with a sick person. Most often, the disease occurs during damp and cold seasons, in autumn or winter. Angina in a child can be a consequence of hypothermia with weak immunity and other diseases. Sore throats can be caused by dental disease, tooth decay, and infections in the mouth.

Symptoms of sore throat

Angina is manifested acutely by the following symptoms:

  • severe muscle weakness;
  • Sharp sore throat when swallowing and talking;
  • high temperature, which can reach 40 degrees in severe forms of the disease;
  • headache;
  • enlargement of the tonsils, characteristic white bloom;
  • Severe redness of the mucous membrane of the throat and tonsils.

The first symptoms of a sore throat can easily be mistaken for a cold or flu, but it is more severe.With a sore throat, the tonsils immediately enlarge, a sore throat can last for a whole week, so it is easy to identify. It is very important to start treatment immediately, since this disease is dangerous with various complications. One of them is paratonsillar abscess. The patient may experience a sharp sore throat, which is constantly increasing. After 2-3 days, a person cannot swallow, the temperature rises, salivation becomes abundant. During swallowing, due to severe swelling of the soft palate, food can enter the nasopharynx and nose.Respiratory passages are practically blocked and the patient may suffocate.

Only a doctor should be involved in the diagnosis of angina. As a rule, he prescribes laryngoscopy, but if necessary, additional tests may be needed: a blood test and bacterioscopic examination of smears from the pharynx and nasal cavity.

Treatment of sore throat

In this disease, therapy should be comprehensive. Its basis is complete rest in bed rest. Even with proper drug treatment without bed rest, viral tonsillitis can give complications that require much more radical and expensive methods of exposure.

With regard to nutrition, it is better to give up heavy and sweet dishes during illness. Some of them irritate the throat, and their digestion requires additional energy from the body.

Drinking plenty of fluids will help the body to cope with the infection much faster. In this case, toxins will be excreted along with urine.

Carrying out regular gargling is able to remove the infection from the body as soon as possible and reduce pain. In this matter, the main thing is to adhere to stability.

Antihistamines and anti-inflammatories are prescribed to relieve swelling and soreness in the throat and to alleviate general toxicity.

Some forms of sore throat require surgical intervention, as the patient may suffocate or the infection spreads to other organs. In this case, complete or partial removal of the affected tonsils and pus is performed. The patient is recovering at the hospital. After the operation, it is necessary to limit physical activity, protect yourself from hypothermia, strengthen the immune system and health.

Search in pharmacies for the proper quality of drugs for the treatment of angina, read their instructions and book through our online service.

Angina in children

Symptoms and treatment of angina in children are specific. The course of the disease in older children is accompanied by weakness and drowsiness, while in younger children, on the contrary, one can notice manifestations of anxiety and irritability. Enteroviral sore throat in children is accompanied by the appearance on the mucous tonsils, arches and pharynx of a bubbly rash with fluid inside.When the bubbles open, ulcers appear with a white coating. There are no scars after their healing.

Angina in children under five years of age is dangerous because such a dangerous condition as false croup can develop. In this case, there is an edema of the larynx, its lumen narrows, as a result, a clinic of suffocation arises. If a child has breathing problems, you need to call an ambulance immediately, and before she arrives, provide fresh air in all possible ways, for example, take the baby to the balcony or just open a window.

We recommend to read the article: Treatment of angina in a child at home

Angina in babies

Angina in infants is a rather dangerous phenomenon that can lead to serious consequences. To prescribe adequate treatment, it is necessary to make a correct diagnosis. This task is made difficult by the fact that the baby cannot tell about his feelings. When making a diagnosis, the doctor relies on the examination data and information received from the parents.

The following signs give grounds to suspect a sore throat in an infant:

  • temperature rise to 39-40 degrees, against the background of which convulsions sometimes occur;
  • refusal to eat, vomiting, diarrhea;
  • Anxiety and constant crying.

If necessary, the baby is placed in a hospital. This will have to be done if he suffers from congenital diseases, angina has given complications or there are signs of severe intoxication.

Angina during breastfeeding

Angina during breastfeeding is quite common, and treatment during lactation is a difficult task, because it should help the mother and at the same time not harm the baby.When a sore throat occurs in a nursing mother, the doctor should decide how to treat it, because during this period self-medication is unacceptable.

Most drugs pass into breast milk at least in small amounts. Medical treatment of angina during breastfeeding should be carried out carefully, with strict adherence to the dosage of the drugs. Mostly, agents are used that act locally and rarely give pronounced side effects.

Complications after tonsillitis

With a disease such as tonsillitis, treatment in accordance with the doctor’s recommendations is a guarantee that the disease will not provoke the development of more serious pathologies.In practice, many people go to the doctor even when it becomes impossible to turn away from the effects of tonsillitis caused by viruses.

Any inflammatory process in the throat area is fraught with a potential threat, even if the course of the disease at first seems mild. The body weakened by the virus is not able to resist bacterial infections (staphylococcus, streptococcus, pneumococcus). As a result, pathogenic processes spread to organs that are located not only near the larynx, but also far from this zone.

A child may develop a pharyngeal abscess, characterized by severe pain in the throat, which is aggravated when he opens his mouth. If an abscess ruptures, pus enters the posterior mediastinum. In this case, posterior mediastinitis develops, the consequences of which are neuropsychiatric disorders and cardiovascular failure.

Angina can cause inflammation in the middle ear and parotid gland. Getting into the lymph and blood, the infection in some cases affects the joints, liver or kidneys.

Prevention of sore throat

Prevention of angina is aimed at general strengthening of the body and exclusion of various infections that provoke the disease. It requires an integrated approach:

  • Maintaining personal hygiene. During illness, the patient must use a separate towel, toiletries and utensils.
  • With angina, the patient must be isolated from other family members and people. The room should be cleaned regularly.
  • Maintain proper nutrition.It should be healthy, nutritious, contain vitamins and minerals.
  • Regular examination and treatment of helminthiasis, as well as all sources of chronic infection: caries, pyelonephritis, sinusitis, chronic tonsillitis, various purulent skin diseases. Maintain oral hygiene, see a dentist. If necessary, carry out partial or complete removal of the adenoids or tonsils.
  • Hardening a child from an early age. It is best to start hardening in childhood, but it can be done at any age.Among the methods of hardening, douche, rubdown, contrast shower, swimming, walking barefoot on stones and sand are distinguished. The process should take place gradually so that the body gets used to the stress. Hardening can only be carried out in a healthy state.
  • Increasing the level of immunity. It is necessary to protect mucous membranes from damage with dry and warm air. Do not often use local antiseptics in the form of sprays. Cold drinks and food can be consumed, only in small quantities, so that the mucous membrane gets used to low temperatures.It is necessary to increase the body’s defenses. To do this, you can make an appointment with an immunologist who will prescribe medications that stimulate cellular and humoral immunity, immunomodulators of bacterial origin, a complex of vitamins.

Prevention of complications

Taking into account what complications can be after a sore throat, the need for thoughtful preventive measures becomes obvious. Following a few simple recommendations will help prevent serious health consequences.So how to avoid complications after a sore throat?

  • Observe bed rest until the symptoms from the oropharynx completely disappear, even if the temperature is within normal limits.
  • Topical treatment aimed at eliminating the manifestations of the disease should include lubrication of the affected tonsils and rinsing.
  • After suffering a sore throat, you should refrain from vigorous physical activity for some time, try not to overcool.

It is very important to follow the recommendations on the regimen and diet given by the doctor. He must explain what complications occur after a sore throat and how to avoid them. You can choose the best otolaryngologist or general practitioner in Kiev who will prescribe effective treatment on the website Doc.ua.

Chronic tonsillitis

Your child is about to have surgery. We would like to give you and your child information about the need for this intervention.We make sure that you do not feel helpless in this situation. We would like to acquaint you with the essential points of the operation itself, the risk factors in the event of its failure. The written information offered to you serves this purpose. Read it carefully so that you can discuss any confusion with your doctor.

Every healthy child has lymphoid tissue in the pharynx, which unites into the so-called lymphadenoid pharyngeal ring. It includes the palatine tonsils – “tonsils” – they can be seen when examining the mouth – they look like balls protruding from the sides of the tongue, the pharyngeal tonsil – it cannot be seen during a direct examination of the oral cavity, it is hidden in the nasopharynx, behind the palate, the lingual tonsil – is located at the root of the tongue, and many lymphoid follicles are scattered along the back wall of the pharynx, at the entrance to the larynx (see.fig. 18). These formations help the child defeat pathogenic bacteria that enter the throat during breathing and eating, and contribute to the formation of local immunity – protection against pathogens. By the way, in these organs there are no cells that affect the sexual development of the child, they do not produce sex hormones, so their diseases do not affect the sexual development of the child, and when they are removed if necessary (more on this later), sexual development is not disturbed.

In early childhood – usually from 2 to 5-7 years – the described organs work very hard, as the child expands the sphere of contacts with peers, attending kindergarten, and inevitably often becomes infected and develops respiratory diseases.At the same time, if the child’s immune forces are not strong enough due to congenital features, environmental factors and other reasons, the lymphoid organs increase in volume. This enlargement of the palatine tonsils is called “hypertrophy of the palatine tonsils”, they can become inflamed – inflammation of the tonsils is called tonsillitis. Tonsillitis can be acute or chronic. In children, chronic tonsillitis and adenoids – an enlarged pharyngeal tonsil – are often combined.

The tonsils of the pharynx have a significant impact on the state of health, the development of nearby organs.What is this influence? A perceived obstruction to the passage of the air stream through the nose leads to breathing through the mouth. The consequence is obvious – untreated air enters the respiratory tract – not purified, not warmed up and not humidified. A chronic inflammatory process, constantly smoldering in the tissue of the tonsils and adenoids, periodically exacerbating, contributes to protracted, recurrent diseases of the trachea and bronchi (bronchitis, obstructive bronchitis, tracheitis, pharyngitis), can independently or aggravate the course of allergies, in severe cases manifested in the form of bronchial asthma , allergic rhinopathy, atopic dermatitis.Adenoids and enlarged palatine tonsils, filling the pharynx, impair the functioning of the auditory tubes, which cannot sufficiently deliver air to the middle ear, as a result of which secretory otitis media develops, which can lead to hearing loss, and if an infection enters the ear, to its acute inflammation – acute purulent otitis media. Bad breathing through the nose contributes to the abnormal development of the maxillofacial region – the teeth bite is disturbed, the shape of the face changes (the so-called “adenoid face”).

The causative agents of infectious diseases of the respiratory tract (most often streptococci) after a sore throat remain in the palatine tonsils, their chronic inflammation develops – chronic tonsillitis. Under the confluence of unfavorable circumstances (hypothermia, stress, viral infection), the process in the tonsils is activated. This proceeds in the form of another sore throat with deposits on the tonsils or purulent plugs. What is very dangerous, each exacerbation of tonsillitis can cause complications in the form of diseases of other organs and systems of the child’s body, most often – rheumatic diseases of the heart and joints, kidney diseases (pyelitis, pyelonephritis, glomerulonephritis).In addition, exacerbation of tonsillitis or tonsillitis sometimes cause complications in the form of an abscess (abscess) in the pharynx. This complication is called paratonsillar abscess. A paratonsillar abscess indicates that the palatine tonsil does not cope with its function, it can recur at any time.

What factors contribute to the enlargement of the pharyngeal tonsils, the development of chronic tonsillitis?

  • Heredity – at least if the parents suffered from adenoids, tonsillitis, the child, to one degree or another, will also face this problem.
  • Inflammatory diseases of the nose, throat, pharynx – and respiratory viral infections, and measles, and whooping cough, and scarlet fever, and tonsillitis, etc.
  • Eating disorders – especially overfeeding.
  • Propensity to allergic reactions, congenital and acquired immunity deficiency.
  • Violations of the optimal properties of the air that the child breathes – very warm, very dry, a lot of dust, an admixture of harmful substances (environmental situation, excess of household chemicals).
  • Inadequate (incorrect) treatment of acute tonsillitis (tonsillitis). The most common mistakes are an incomplete course of antibiotic treatment, incorrect dosage, violation of the therapeutic and protective regime (early getting out of bed, walking on the street earlier than 7-10 days from the start of treatment).

Thus, the actions of parents aimed at preventing chronic tonsillitis are reduced to correction, or even better, to the initial organization of a lifestyle that contributes to the normal functioning of the immune system – feeding according to appetite, physical activity, hardening, limiting contact with dust and household chemicals …

What is the difference between chronic tonsillitis and tonsil hypertrophy?

Hypertrophy of the tonsils is an increase in their size at the age of a child up to 9-10 years old. In chronic tonsillitis, the tonsils can be of any size, its distinctive feature is the development of a chronic inflammatory process in the tonsils.

If a child has adenoids along with chronic tonsillitis or enlarged palatine tonsils?

The presence of adenoids, obstructed nasal breathing significantly affect the development of tonsil disease.In this case, otolaryngologists suggest removing the adenoids in the compensated form of tonsillitis, while preserving the palatine tonsils, and in the decompensated form, include in the scope of the operation to remove the palatine tonsils and adenotomy, which slightly lengthens the operation and is almost imperceptible to the patient, but strongly affects the result of the operation. If this is not done, the child has a high likelihood of progression of tonsillitis or adenoiditis, which will negate the results of tonsillectomy – difficulty in nasal breathing will remain, the child will again become sick often, snoring will not go away or worsened.

When is tonsillitis treated and when is surgery performed?

There are two forms of chronic tonsillitis: compensated and decompensated. With a decompensated form, no surgical treatment can be dispensed with – the tonsils must be removed. This diagnosis is made when tonsillitis is often exacerbated (2-3 sore throats per year), the process goes beyond the tonsils, if diseases of distant organs and systems develop, for example, nephritis, rheumatic diseases of the heart and joints.The tonsils must be removed if a paratonsillar abscess develops.

Is it possible and necessary to treat chronic tonsillitis?

Let us emphasize that it is not only possible to heal, but also necessary. Until the child develops the changes mentioned earlier, every six months should be carried out as a local treatment in the form of irrigation of the pharyngeal mucosa with aqueous solutions with anti-inflammatory, anti-allergic and antimicrobial properties, and general methods of treatment, including vitamin preparations, agents affecting immune system, locally acting vaccines, physiotherapy methods (magnetic, laser therapy, inhalation).Otolaryngologists consider it especially important in the treatment of tonsillitis to carry out a course of washing the lacunae of the palatine tonsils (7-10 procedures per course of treatment).

How urgent is the operation to be performed?

The operation to remove the tonsils – tonsillectomy – is planned, that is, it is performed when the child is in full health or in remission of chronic diseases. It should not be performed during acute illness (ARI) and 3-4 weeks after recovery. Thus, it is always possible to perform this operation in a favorable period for the child, which will minimize the risk of postoperative complications.

Are the palatine tonsils growing again, are relapses possible?

No, completely removed palatine tonsils cannot grow back.

How are tonsils removed?

This operation is performed using local or general anesthesia (anesthesia). It lasts 25-30 minutes and with the correct psychological preparation of the child, it is tolerated satisfactorily. The simplicity of the operation is not evidence of its safety. Complications due to anesthesia, bleeding, and damage to the palate are also possible.But all this does not happen often.

Surgeons have long abandoned the removal of tonsils with ultrasound and laser due to the enormous risk of complications.

How long is the child in the hospital after the surgery?

Due to the high risk of bleeding in the postoperative period, the child is in the hospital for 6 days after the operation.

What should be done after the child is discharged?

The child is discharged from the hospital under the supervision of an ENT doctor or pediatrician in a polyclinic at the place of residence.Home treatment is usually recommended for 1-2 weeks. In this case, physical activity should be limited, however, it is not necessary to keep the child in bed. When eating the first days, you should not eat hot, spicy food, sour juices and fruits, carbonated drinks, ice cream. After 5-7 days, the diet becomes normal. On the 10-14th day after discharge, with a satisfactory general condition of the child, the absence of elevated body temperature, smooth healing of the wound in the throat, you can visit the children’s team, go out into the street.You can’t just go in for sports, go to the pool. The wound in the pharynx heals completely in 3-4 weeks. A month after the operation, there are no restrictions on lifestyle and diet.

How to remove tonsils at the Children’s City ENT Center?

To establish a diagnosis, in the absence of an ENT doctor in the clinic, you can make an appointment at the city consultative ENT office by calling 2-78-49-00 (reference).

Reception is carried out on weekdays, from 8.00. to 20.00.

If the diagnosis of chronic tonsillitis is established and you have made a decision to operate on the child, with a referral for surgical treatment issued at the polyclinic, you should go to the admission department of the 3rd Children’s Clinical Hospital at any time convenient for you. Your child will be recorded for hospitalization on the day you have chosen and will be given an examination plan (a list of tests required to perform the operation). Hospitalization is carried out on Tuesday and Thursday, from 13.00. until 15.00. and on Sunday from 16.00. to 18.00. The operation is carried out the next day.

Treatment of chronic tonsillitis in Samara

Tronzillitis is a chronic inflammation of the tonsils.

The tonsils – or tonsils – are actively involved in the body’s defense against viruses and bacteria. But if the tonsils are often inflamed due to bacterial infections, they no longer promote immunity, but inhibit it.

What are the causes of the disease?

Usually tonsillitis appears after repeated (rarely – single) tonsillitis.The inflammation is sustained by bacteria remaining in the tonsils – usually streptococci. Sometimes tonsillitis appear without prior sore throat.

Another reason is a violation of nasal breathing. For example, due to adenoids, curvature of the nasal septum, nasal polyps, etc.

Also, infections in nearby organs – dental caries, sinusitis and others – can contribute to the inflammation of the tonsils.

The development and course of the disease is very seriously affected by a general decrease in immunity, allergies.

What happens to the tonsils?

In chronic inflammation, the soft lymphoid tissue is replaced by a hard connective tissue. Scars are formed, the lacunae of the tonsils are narrowed and closed, purulent foci are formed. Later, “plugs” accumulate in the gaps – an accumulation of mucosal epithelium, food particles, microbes, leukocytes.

All of this is an excellent environment for the life and reproduction of pathogenic organisms that support inflammation.

The tonsils may grow in size or remain small.Cervical lymph nodes may also enlarge due to the spread of microbes through them.

The main symptoms of tonsillitis:

· sore throat

Feeling of a foreign body in the throat,

Bad breath

Coughing up plugs

Slight pain when swallowing (sometimes radiates to the ear)

· Quite often the temperature appears and keeps – 37.0-37.2.The temperature can be several weeks or several months

There may be headache, fatigue, decreased performance

Sometimes there are coughing fits

Consequences of chronic tonsillitis:

For pregnant women, tonsillitis is dangerous by the development of pathologies, the appearance of toxicosis, the threat of miscarriages and premature birth. I can develop abnormalities in labor and a lack of milk.

Also tonsillitis

– can lead to pathologies of the kidneys, liver and biliary tract

– promotes the development of dermatoses

– contribute to the appearance of collagen diseases

– leads to eye disease

– leads to complication of diseases of the bronchi and lungs

– can lead to damage to the thyroid gland

– has a bad effect on the reproductive system

– affects neuro-endocrine disorders – weight changes (excess or losing weight), thirst, problems with appetite, menstrual irregularities, decreased libido.

– leads to rheumatism

All this says one thing – tonsillitis must be treated with . Colds and sore throats, unfortunately, are not the only complications to which it can lead.

Treatment of tonsillitis

It will not be surprising that only a doctor can prescribe treatment, and it will depend on the form of the disease and the presence of complications.

Before treatment, you need to take care of the treatment of nearby organs – teeth, nose.

There are 2 main methods of treatment – surgical and conservative.

Surgical treatment of tonsillitis:

The tonsils are not an extra organ in the body (by the way, like the appendix). If there are no tonsils, bacteria and viruses will immediately enter the respiratory tract, because there will be one less body protector. You cannot just remove the tonsils – especially since, unfortunately, they will not grow back – this process is irreversible. First of all, the doctor will try to restore the function of the tonsils using conservative methods.And only if several attempts do not lead to success, an operation is scheduled. Removal of tonsils must be justified – the operation has never been urgent, so the patient always has time to take attempts at conservative treatment.

There are two options for operations:

Option 1: Complete removal of tonsils.

Option 2: Partial removal of the affected tonsil tissue. For admission, in our clinic, partial destruction of the palatine tonsils by radio waves is used.

Conservative treatment:

There are many ways to treat inflammation of the glands that have been proven to be effective:

1. Washing the lacunae of the tonsils under negative pressure. Liquid pus is removed, and with the help of a medicinal solution and a vacuum cap, the lacunae are washed.

2. An introduction to drug lacunae. Medicines – pastes, ointments, etc. are injected with a special syringe. Due to their consistency, they stay in the lacunae better than solutions, and have a more pronounced effect.

3. Injections. The syringe is used with a needle – the medicine is injected directly into the tissue of the tonsils.

4. Lubrication of the tonsils.

5. Gargling. It is carried out at home independently.

6. Physiotherapy: Magnetic therapy, electrophoresis, inhalation and other methods may come in handy.

The course of treatment usually consists of 10-12 procedures. Repeat it 2-3 times a year – usually in the off-season.It is good if the doctor examines all family members of the patient and, if tonsillitis is detected, the whole family undergoes treatment at the same time.