How long does it take to recover from tonsillitis in adults. What are the common symptoms of tonsillitis in adults. How is tonsillitis treated in adults. When should an adult see a doctor for tonsillitis. What are the risk factors for tonsillitis in adults. How can adults manage tonsillitis symptoms at home. When is tonsillectomy recommended for adults with recurrent tonsillitis.

Understanding Tonsillitis in Adults: Causes and Prevalence

Tonsillitis, an inflammation of the tonsils, is often associated with children and teenagers. However, adults are not immune to this condition. While less common in the adult population, tonsillitis can still occur and may present unique challenges for those affected.

What causes tonsillitis in adults? The primary culprits are viruses and bacteria:

• Viral infections: Account for up to 70% of tonsillitis cases
• Bacterial infections: Group A Streptococcus is the most common bacterial cause

Viral tonsillitis can be caused by various pathogens, including those responsible for the common cold, laryngitis, and the Epstein-Barr virus (which causes mononucleosis). Bacterial tonsillitis, often referred to as strep throat, typically has a more sudden onset and distinct symptoms.

Risk Factors for Tonsillitis in Adults

While tonsillitis is less prevalent in adults, certain factors can increase the risk of developing this condition:

• Frequent contact with young children (e.g., parents, teachers)
• Working in crowded environments (e.g., daycare centers)
• Living in close quarters (e.g., military barracks)

These risk factors highlight the importance of maintaining good hygiene practices and being aware of one’s environment, especially for adults who fall into these categories.

Recognizing Tonsillitis Symptoms in Adults

Identifying tonsillitis in adults requires awareness of its characteristic symptoms. While some signs may overlap with other throat conditions, a combination of the following symptoms often indicates tonsillitis:

• Sore throat
• Red, swollen tonsils
• Difficulty swallowing
• Fever
• Headache
• Coughing
• Sore, swollen lymph nodes in the neck
• Fatigue
• Nasal congestion
• Sneezing
• Loss of appetite
• Hoarse voice

How can adults distinguish between viral and bacterial tonsillitis? While a definitive diagnosis requires medical evaluation, some symptoms may suggest a bacterial infection:

• Tender lymph nodes in the neck
• White, pus-filled spots on the tonsils
• Bad breath
• High fever
• Absence of cough (more common in viral infections)

It’s important to note that these symptoms alone are not conclusive, and professional medical assessment is necessary for an accurate diagnosis.

Treatment Options for Tonsillitis in Adults

The approach to treating tonsillitis in adults depends on its underlying cause. In most cases, self-care and rest at home are sufficient for recovery. However, certain situations may require medical intervention.

Self-Care and Home Remedies

For viral tonsillitis, which accounts for the majority of cases, the following self-care practices are recommended:

• Rest as much as possible
• Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated
• Take over-the-counter pain relievers
• Use a humidifier to keep the air moist
• Consume soft foods and frozen treats like popsicles
• Use throat lozenges to maintain moisture in the throat

Additional home remedies that may provide relief include:

• Gargling with salt water (1/2 teaspoon of salt per 8 ounces of warm water)
• Applying a warm compress to the neck
• Drinking herbal tea with lemon and honey
• Trying a hot water mixture with lemon, honey, and a dash of cayenne pepper

Medical Treatment for Bacterial Tonsillitis

If testing confirms a bacterial infection, antibiotic therapy may be prescribed. Penicillin and amoxicillin are the most commonly prescribed antibiotics for adults with bacterial tonsillitis. For those with penicillin allergies, alternative antibiotics are available.

When is antibiotic treatment necessary? Antibiotics are typically prescribed when:

• A bacterial infection is confirmed through testing
• Symptoms are severe or persistent
• There’s a risk of complications, such as rheumatic fever

In some cases, doctors may recommend a “delayed antibiotic” approach, where patients take antibiotics only if they meet specific criteria after a few days of observation.

Recovery Timeline and Expectations for Tonsillitis in Adults

How long does it take for an adult to recover from tonsillitis? The recovery timeline can vary depending on several factors:

• Cause of tonsillitis (viral vs. bacterial)
• Overall health of the individual
• Severity of symptoms
• Adherence to treatment and self-care practices

In general, most cases of tonsillitis in adults resolve within a week. However, some individuals may experience prolonged symptoms or recurrent episodes.

Typical Recovery Timeline

1. Days 1-3: Onset of symptoms, which may worsen
2. Days 4-5: Peak of symptoms
3. Days 6-7: Gradual improvement begins
4. Day 7 onwards: Continued improvement, with most symptoms resolving

For bacterial tonsillitis treated with antibiotics, improvement is often noticeable within 24-48 hours of starting the medication. However, it’s crucial to complete the full course of antibiotics as prescribed, even if symptoms improve.

When to Seek Medical Attention for Tonsillitis

While many cases of tonsillitis can be managed at home, certain situations warrant medical attention. Adults should consult a healthcare provider if:

• Symptoms persist or worsen after several days of self-care
• Difficulty swallowing or breathing becomes severe
• High fever (above 101°F or 38.3°C) persists
• Symptoms interfere with eating or drinking
• There’s a history of recurrent tonsillitis
• Severe pain is not relieved by over-the-counter medications

Prompt medical evaluation can help determine the cause of tonsillitis and guide appropriate treatment, potentially preventing complications or prolonged discomfort.

Recurrent Tonsillitis in Adults: When to Consider Tonsillectomy

For some adults, tonsillitis becomes a recurring issue, significantly impacting their quality of life. In such cases, tonsillectomy (surgical removal of the tonsils) may be considered as a treatment option.

What criteria are used to determine if tonsillectomy is appropriate for an adult? Healthcare providers typically consider recommending tonsillectomy if the patient experiences:

• Seven or more episodes of tonsillitis in one year
• Five or more episodes in each of the previous two years
• Three or more episodes in each of the past three years

Why might tonsillectomy be beneficial for adults with recurrent tonsillitis? While the tonsils play a role in preventing infections, their importance diminishes in adulthood. If they become a source of frequent infections instead, removal may provide long-term relief.

Considerations for Tonsillectomy in Adults

The decision to undergo tonsillectomy should be made carefully, considering several factors:

• Frequency and severity of tonsillitis episodes
• Impact on daily life and work
• Overall health and ability to undergo surgery
• Potential risks and complications of the procedure
• Expected recovery time and post-operative care requirements

It’s important to note that while tonsillectomy can effectively end recurrent tonsillitis, the procedure in adults often involves a longer and more challenging recovery compared to children. A thorough discussion with a healthcare provider is essential to weigh the benefits and risks of this surgical intervention.

Preventing Tonsillitis in Adults: Strategies for Maintaining Throat Health

While it’s not always possible to prevent tonsillitis, adults can take steps to reduce their risk of developing this condition. Implementing good hygiene practices and maintaining overall health can go a long way in protecting against tonsillitis and other throat infections.

Effective Prevention Strategies

• Practice good hand hygiene: Wash hands frequently with soap and water, especially before eating and after contact with potentially contaminated surfaces.
• Avoid close contact with infected individuals: Tonsillitis is contagious, so maintaining distance from those with active infections is crucial.
• Boost immune system: Maintain a balanced diet, exercise regularly, and get adequate sleep to support overall immune function.
• Quit smoking: Smoking irritates the throat and can make it more susceptible to infections.
• Manage allergies: Properly treating allergies can reduce throat irritation and inflammation.
• Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water helps keep the throat moist and supports immune function.
• Practice stress management: Chronic stress can weaken the immune system, making infections more likely.

By incorporating these preventive measures into their daily routines, adults can significantly reduce their risk of developing tonsillitis and other throat-related ailments.

Environmental Considerations

For adults in high-risk environments, such as those working with children or in crowded settings, additional precautions may be beneficial:

• Use personal protective equipment (PPE) when appropriate, such as face masks in healthcare settings.
• Maintain clean and well-ventilated workspaces.
• Encourage sick individuals to stay home and seek treatment.
• Implement regular cleaning and disinfection protocols in shared spaces.

These measures not only help prevent tonsillitis but also contribute to overall health and well-being in communal environments.

Long-Term Outlook for Adults with Tonsillitis

Understanding the long-term implications of tonsillitis in adults is crucial for managing expectations and making informed decisions about treatment and prevention. While most cases of tonsillitis resolve without complications, some individuals may face ongoing challenges or potential health risks.

Potential Long-Term Effects

• Recurrent infections: Some adults may experience frequent episodes of tonsillitis, impacting their quality of life and potentially leading to consideration of tonsillectomy.
• Chronic throat discomfort: Repeated infections can lead to persistent throat sensitivity or discomfort.
• Tonsil stones: Recurrent tonsillitis may increase the likelihood of developing tonsil stones, which can cause bad breath and throat irritation.
• Sleep disturbances: Enlarged tonsils resulting from frequent infections may contribute to sleep-disordered breathing or snoring.
• Rare complications: In very rare cases, untreated or severe tonsillitis can lead to more serious conditions, such as peritonsillar abscess or rheumatic fever.

How can adults manage the long-term effects of tonsillitis? Proactive measures include:

• Regular follow-ups with healthcare providers to monitor recurrence and discuss treatment options
• Maintaining good oral hygiene to reduce the risk of tonsil stones
• Addressing any sleep-related issues that may arise from tonsil enlargement
• Considering lifestyle modifications to support overall throat and immune health

By staying informed and taking a proactive approach to their health, adults can effectively manage the long-term implications of tonsillitis and maintain optimal throat health.

Tonsillitis in adults: Symptoms, treatment, and recovery

Tonsillitis is more common in children and teenagers, but adults can get it too. In adults, tonsillitis may last around a week, but sometimes, symptoms persist for longer or can be recurrent.

Both viral and bacterial infections can cause tonsillitis, which refers to inflammation of the tonsils.

Keep reading to learn more about tonsillitis in adults, including the risk factors and treatments.

Share on PinterestSwollen lymph nodes are a common symptom of tonsillitis in adults.

The symptoms of tonsillitis in adults include:

• sore throat
• red, swollen tonsils
• difficulty swallowing
• fever
• headache
• coughing
• sore, swollen lymph nodes in the neck
• fatigue
• nasal congestion
• sneezing
• loss of appetite
• hoarse voice

Viruses are the most common cause of tonsillitis in adults and children, being responsible for up to 70% of cases, according to the American Academy of Otolaryngology — Head and Neck Surgery. The viruses at work include those that cause the common cold and laryngitis, as well as the Epstein-Barr virus, which is responsible for mononucleosis.

When adults come down with tonsillitis due to a bacterial infection, group A Streptococcus is the usual culprit. People sometimes refer to this illness as strep throat. Its onset is usually more sudden than that of viral infections, and people do not typically have a cough, which is frequently present with a viral infection.

Other potential indications of bacterial tonsillitis are:

• tender lymph nodes in the neck
• white, pus-filled spots on the tonsils
• bad breath
• fever

Children and teenagers are more likely than adults to get tonsillitis, including that due to group A Streptococcus. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), only about 1 in 10 adults with a sore throat actually have strep throat.

As tonsillitis is more common in children and also very contagious, the factors that place adults at higher risk of developing it include:

• frequent contact with young children — for example, as a parent or teacher
• working in crowded conditions, such as a day care center
• living in crowded conditions, such as military barracks

Tonsillitis usually gets better with several days of self-care and rest at home.

If it is not improving, it is getting worse, or the symptoms are so severe that the individual is not able to eat or drink as necessary, it is a good idea to see a doctor.

As most cases of tonsillitis in adults, as with children, are due to viruses, rest and self-care at home are usually the only treatments necessary. Commonly recommended self-care practices include:

• resting as much as possible
• drinking a lot of fluids
• taking over-the-counter (OTC) medications for pain and discomfort
• using a humidifier to keep household air moist
• eating soft foods and frozen foods, such as popsicles
• using OTC lozenges to help keep the throat moist

However, if testing reveals that tonsillitis is due to a bacterial infection, a doctor may prescribe antibiotic therapy. In situations where it is not clear whether bacteria are the cause, some doctors recommend a strategy of delayed antibiotics, with individuals taking medication if they meet certain criteria.

Penicillin and amoxicillin are the antibiotics that doctors prescribe most often to adults with bacterial tonsillitis. People who are allergic to penicillin antibiotics will receive a suitable substitute.

Using antibiotics, when appropriate, can shorten the duration of symptoms and reduce the risks of complications, such as rheumatic fever.

Various home remedies are available to help adults take care of themselves during a bout of tonsillitis. People can try:

• gargling with salt water (half a teaspoon of salt per eight ounces of warm water) while taking care not to swallow the water
• wrapping the neck with a cloth, hot compress, or heating pad
• drinking herbal tea with lemon and honey
• drinking hot water with lemon, honey, and a dash of cayenne pepper

Most cases of tonsillitis in adults resolve within a week, but for some people, the inflammation and discomfort last much longer.

Some people also experience frequently recurring bouts of tonsillitis. A doctor may recommend that a person undergo the removal of their tonsils, called a tonsillectomy, if they have:

• seven or more episodes of tonsillitis in 1 year
• five or more episodes in each of the previous 2 years
• three or more episodes in each of the past 3 years.

The tonsils’ main function is to help prevent infection, but in adults, this role is diminished. Therefore, if someone seems to be more prone to infections instead, removal may be the best option.

Although a tonsillectomy will put an end to an adult’s problems with recurring tonsillitis, researchers have found that there is uncertainty among healthcare providers regarding the most cost effective stage of the disease to pursue the procedure for adults.

Pain is common after a tonsillectomy. Just as children should stay home from school for 2 weeks or so after surgery, adults need to give themselves and their body a chance to rest and recover.

Although swallowing might be difficult after the procedure, experts recommend as rapid a return to solid foods as possible.

Tonsillitis may be a common condition in children, but it can also affect adults.

Viral infections cause most cases of tonsillitis in adults and children, and at-home treatment with rest, fluids, and OTC pain relievers is usually sufficient.

However, bacteria do cause some cases of adult tonsillitis, many of which are due to strep throat. Adults with this type of tonsillitis can benefit from seeing a doctor and taking antibiotics.

Tonsillitis in adults: Symptoms, treatment, and recovery

Tonsillitis is more common in children and teenagers, but adults can get it too. In adults, tonsillitis may last around a week, but sometimes, symptoms persist for longer or can be recurrent.

Both viral and bacterial infections can cause tonsillitis, which refers to inflammation of the tonsils.

Keep reading to learn more about tonsillitis in adults, including the risk factors and treatments.

Share on PinterestSwollen lymph nodes are a common symptom of tonsillitis in adults.

The symptoms of tonsillitis in adults include:

• sore throat
• red, swollen tonsils
• difficulty swallowing
• fever
• headache
• coughing
• sore, swollen lymph nodes in the neck
• fatigue
• nasal congestion
• sneezing
• loss of appetite
• hoarse voice

Viruses are the most common cause of tonsillitis in adults and children, being responsible for up to 70% of cases, according to the American Academy of Otolaryngology — Head and Neck Surgery. The viruses at work include those that cause the common cold and laryngitis, as well as the Epstein-Barr virus, which is responsible for mononucleosis.

When adults come down with tonsillitis due to a bacterial infection, group A Streptococcus is the usual culprit. People sometimes refer to this illness as strep throat. Its onset is usually more sudden than that of viral infections, and people do not typically have a cough, which is frequently present with a viral infection.

Other potential indications of bacterial tonsillitis are:

• tender lymph nodes in the neck
• white, pus-filled spots on the tonsils
• bad breath
• fever

Children and teenagers are more likely than adults to get tonsillitis, including that due to group A Streptococcus. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), only about 1 in 10 adults with a sore throat actually have strep throat.

As tonsillitis is more common in children and also very contagious, the factors that place adults at higher risk of developing it include:

• frequent contact with young children — for example, as a parent or teacher
• working in crowded conditions, such as a day care center
• living in crowded conditions, such as military barracks

Tonsillitis usually gets better with several days of self-care and rest at home.

If it is not improving, it is getting worse, or the symptoms are so severe that the individual is not able to eat or drink as necessary, it is a good idea to see a doctor.

As most cases of tonsillitis in adults, as with children, are due to viruses, rest and self-care at home are usually the only treatments necessary. Commonly recommended self-care practices include:

• resting as much as possible
• drinking a lot of fluids
• taking over-the-counter (OTC) medications for pain and discomfort
• using a humidifier to keep household air moist
• eating soft foods and frozen foods, such as popsicles
• using OTC lozenges to help keep the throat moist

However, if testing reveals that tonsillitis is due to a bacterial infection, a doctor may prescribe antibiotic therapy. In situations where it is not clear whether bacteria are the cause, some doctors recommend a strategy of delayed antibiotics, with individuals taking medication if they meet certain criteria.

Penicillin and amoxicillin are the antibiotics that doctors prescribe most often to adults with bacterial tonsillitis. People who are allergic to penicillin antibiotics will receive a suitable substitute.

Using antibiotics, when appropriate, can shorten the duration of symptoms and reduce the risks of complications, such as rheumatic fever.

Various home remedies are available to help adults take care of themselves during a bout of tonsillitis. People can try:

• gargling with salt water (half a teaspoon of salt per eight ounces of warm water) while taking care not to swallow the water
• wrapping the neck with a cloth, hot compress, or heating pad
• drinking herbal tea with lemon and honey
• drinking hot water with lemon, honey, and a dash of cayenne pepper

Most cases of tonsillitis in adults resolve within a week, but for some people, the inflammation and discomfort last much longer.

Some people also experience frequently recurring bouts of tonsillitis. A doctor may recommend that a person undergo the removal of their tonsils, called a tonsillectomy, if they have:

• seven or more episodes of tonsillitis in 1 year
• five or more episodes in each of the previous 2 years
• three or more episodes in each of the past 3 years.

The tonsils’ main function is to help prevent infection, but in adults, this role is diminished. Therefore, if someone seems to be more prone to infections instead, removal may be the best option.

Although a tonsillectomy will put an end to an adult’s problems with recurring tonsillitis, researchers have found that there is uncertainty among healthcare providers regarding the most cost effective stage of the disease to pursue the procedure for adults.

Pain is common after a tonsillectomy. Just as children should stay home from school for 2 weeks or so after surgery, adults need to give themselves and their body a chance to rest and recover.

Although swallowing might be difficult after the procedure, experts recommend as rapid a return to solid foods as possible.

Tonsillitis may be a common condition in children, but it can also affect adults.

Viral infections cause most cases of tonsillitis in adults and children, and at-home treatment with rest, fluids, and OTC pain relievers is usually sufficient.

However, bacteria do cause some cases of adult tonsillitis, many of which are due to strep throat. Adults with this type of tonsillitis can benefit from seeing a doctor and taking antibiotics.

Chronic tonsillitis: how to live with it?

There is probably no person in the world who has not 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 palatine tonsils.

How does chronic inflammation of the palatine tonsils occur?

Streptococcus bacteria are the main causative agents of chronic tonsillitis. Less common are other types of bacteria, fungi and intracellular parasites, as well as their various combinations. 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 basis of chronic inflammation is a violation of local immunity in the palatine 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 are shed into peculiar cracks (crypts) and lacunae of the tonsils. Accidental cells clog the lumen of the lacunae of the tonsils, scarring occurs in them, and self-cleaning is 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 aimed not at destroying pathogens, but against the body’s own tissues. Violation of the barrier function of the palatine 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, the local inflammation of the palatine tonsils turns into a general one. The heart, kidneys, joints and lungs are most commonly affected.

What factors contribute to chronic tonsillitis?

Any general factors that weaken the resistance (resistance) of the body can contribute to chronic 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. Exclusion from the act of breathing of the nasal cavity and paranasal sinuses, where moisturizing, warming and purification of air takes place, leads to the fact that unprepared air saturated with microbes enters the palatine tonsils through the mouth. In addition, mucus or pus flowing down the back wall of the pharynx during chronic inflammatory processes of the overlying parts of the respiratory system leads to their contact infection.

Some diseases of the dentoalveolar system (caries, pulpitis) can cause inflammation in the palatine 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 are thrown from the duodenum first into the esophagus, and then into the oropharynx and laryngopharynx. The aggressive contents of the stomach and duodenum damage the surface layer of the cells of the palatine tonsils and contribute to 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 blockage 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 the inflammation passes from the palatine tonsils to the surrounding tissue, followed by purulent fusion. Absorbed from the tonsils into the blood, toxins cause general malaise, fever, periodic 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 their metabolic products, having antigenic properties, lead to general allergization of the human body.

It should be noted that there are such forms of chronic tonsillitis in which tonsillitis does not occur, and other internal organs are already affected.

The focus of chronic infection in the tonsils affects the functioning of all organs and systems and in all cases aggravates any diseases that occur in the body.

What are the treatments for chronic inflammation of the palatine 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, tonsil lacunae are washed with various antimicrobial agents. Currently, treatment with Tonsillor devices, laser and cryotherapy, as well as photodynamic therapy are used.

If there is no effect from conservative treatment, and also when the tonsils cease to perform their functions and are 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 that there are no serious general and local adverse effects on the body after the removal of the palatine tonsils.

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Chronic tonsillitis: symptoms, causes, diagnosis, treatment

Contents of the article

1. General information
2. Causes of chronic tonsillitis
3. Types of disease
4. Symptoms of chronic tonsillitis
5. Pathology diagnostics
6. Treatment of chronic tonsillitis
7. Forecast
8. Prophylaxis
9. Questions and Answers
10. Sources

Chronic tonsillitis is an inflammatory process in the tonsils, prone to periodic exacerbations. The main cause of the disease are frequent tonsillitis (tonsillitis). The chronic course of tonsillitis is characterized by perspiration and sensation of a foreign object in the throat, difficulty in swallowing, pain in the submandibular lymph nodes. It is diagnosed by an otolaryngologist with the help of a pharyngoscope examination.

General

Chronic tonsillitis is a common disease of the tonsils with a risk of complications, especially among those living in big cities and those working in hazardous industries. Most often occurs due to frequent sore throats. Tonsils are responsible for immunity in the body, in an inflamed state they are not able to fight infection, which contributes to the development of many diseases throughout the body. The main causative agent of tonsillitis are streptococci. The disease is found in 5-10% of adults and 10-15% of children, while it is more common in men. In most cases, it requires surgical treatment.

Causes of chronic tonsillitis

Chronic tonsillitis is caused by bacteria of the streptococcus group. Normally, the body is able to overcome them on its own or with the help of drug therapy, but incomplete treatment, antibiotic abuse, and immune system disorders can lead to active reproduction of bacteria and inflammation. Accompanying the development of the disease are also factors such as:

• injuries of the tonsils and nasopharynx;
• weak immunity;
• chronic diseases of the upper respiratory tract;
• untreated ARVI;
• infectious diseases of the oral cavity.

There is also a combination of factors, so against the background of untreated ARVI, immunity is weakened, as a result of which diseases of the oral cavity and upper respiratory tract occur.

Types of disease

Chronic tonsillitis can occur in two forms: simple and toxic-allergic. The toxic-allergic form has subforms: the first and second.

• The simple form is characterized by signs of local inflammation of the tonsils: swelling, soreness, the presence of plaque in the form of pus or purulent elements on their surface. Sometimes the submandibular lymph nodes are enlarged.
• The first toxic-allergic form. Toxic-allergic symptoms are added to the clinical picture of a simple form: general fatigue, fever, intermittent pain in the joints of the extremities. Characterized by a long recovery after exacerbations.
• The second toxic-allergic form. The characteristic features of the simple and the first toxic-allergic forms are supplemented by disturbances in the functioning of the heart, arrhythmia, pathologies in the joints and blood vessels. It is complicated by accompanying diseases of a general and local nature: arthritis, rheumatism, sepsis, pharyngitis, diseases of the thyroid and prostate gland.

To determine the form of chronic tonsillitis and obtain an adequate treatment plan, you must contact an otolaryngologist and undergo an examination.

Symptoms of chronic tonsillitis

With exacerbations, there are signs of the disease with localization in the tonsils: pain when swallowing, dryness. There is a general malaise with fever. Examination reveals redness and enlargement of the tonsils. Recovery after an exacerbation takes a long time. It is important to note that sore throats are not always a symptom of chronic tonsillitis.

The toxic-allergic form often recurs (more than three times a year) with complications. Symptoms are similar to a simple form of chronic tonsillitis, but persist for a longer time. Symptoms of diseases of other organs are often added to it.

Pathology diagnostics

An otolaryngologist is engaged in the diagnosis and treatment of chronic tonsillitis. Diagnosis is a collection of anamnesis, visual and instrumental examination and laboratory results. To diagnose chronic tonsillitis and determine its form, the following types of diagnostics are prescribed:

• visual inspection, palpation of the lymph nodes;
• pharyngoscopy – instrumental examination of the tonsils;
• taking a smear from the tonsils to the sowing tank;
• general and biochemical analysis of blood.

If a toxic-allergic form is detected, a complete examination is required to identify concomitant diseases.

Treatment of chronic tonsillitis

Treatment is prescribed by an otolaryngologist, taking into account the characteristics of the patient, the form and severity of the disease. Conservative treatment is a local treatment and general maintenance of health. In some cases, medication is required:

• Local treatment consists in rinsing the tonsils with antiseptics and antibiotics.
• General health maintenance is focused on improving immune functions and consists of a sparing diet, avoiding hypothermia, giving up bad habits and walking in the fresh air.
• Drug therapy consists in taking immunostimulants. In the acute phase, antibiotics may be taken.

These methods help to achieve stable remission of the disease and prevent the development of exacerbations.

Surgical treatment – tonsillectomy – is performed by an otolaryngologist surgeon and is the removal of both tonsils in a traditional or laser way if conservative treatment is ineffective. This operation is an indication for the second toxic-allergic form of the disease or for the replacement of connective lymphoid tissue due to a prolonged inflammatory process. It is impossible to remove only one tonsil, since the tonsils are a paired organ. When an abscess occurs, it is opened.

Recovery after surgical treatment

As a rule, surgical removal of the tonsils takes place with a minimum number of complications, rehabilitation is 3-4 weeks. Discomfort is similar to the symptoms of tonsillitis. Bad breath disturbs up to 10 days.

Forecast

With timely proper treatment, the prognosis is favorable. Chronic tonsillitis is a dangerous disease in which the tonsils cease to carry out a protective function and become a source of infection, causing damage to organs of various body systems: immune, nervous, excretory, sexual and others. Without timely treatment of tonsillitis, serious diseases of the organs of any of the body systems are possible.

Prevention

Subject to a set of preventive measures, the risk of developing chronic tonsillitis is significantly reduced. Effective prevention is:

• completion of the course of treatment of respiratory diseases;
• exclusion of unjustified intake of antibiotics;
• exclusion of bad habits;
• avoiding hypothermia;
• active lifestyle, walks in the fresh air;
• balanced and regular nutrition;
• sleep, lasting at least 7 hours;
• personal hygiene;
• maintaining the cleanliness of the house, regular airing.

These measures are aimed at the general strengthening of immunity.

Questions and answers

— Which doctor treats chronic tonsillitis?

– Diagnosis and development of drug treatment tactics is carried out by an otolaryngologist. To clarify the diagnosis and conduct additional studies, it may be necessary to consult other specialists, for example, a cardiologist, an infectious disease specialist, an immunologist. The surgeon provides surgical treatment.

— Is it possible that chronic tonsillitis will go away on its own?

– No, chronic tonsillitis cannot go away on its own. If this disease is not treated, the risk of developing complications and spreading the infection to other organs is high. Inflammation of the tonsils must be treated under the supervision of an otolaryngologist.

— Is it possible to treat chronic tonsillitis on your own?

– No, you can’t self-medicate, because another disease can be confused with chronic tonsillitis. Each patient requires an individual approach, taking into account all the features, so it is important to contact an otolaryngologist to receive adequate treatment.

Sources

The following materials were used in preparing the article:

1. Nikolaevskaya V.