Over the counter tonsillitis. 10 Effective Home Remedies for Tonsillitis: Natural Relief and Prevention
How can you alleviate tonsillitis symptoms at home. What are the most effective natural remedies for tonsil infections. When should you seek medical attention for tonsillitis. How long does tonsillitis typically last.
Understanding Tonsillitis: Causes, Symptoms, and Diagnosis
Tonsillitis is an inflammation of the tonsils, two oval-shaped pads of tissue located at the back of the throat. These glands play a crucial role in the body’s immune system, acting as the first line of defense against harmful pathogens entering through the mouth and nose.
The primary causes of tonsillitis are:
- Viral infections (most common)
- Bacterial infections, particularly streptococcal bacteria
- Fungal infections (rare)
Common symptoms of tonsillitis include:
- Sore throat
- Difficulty swallowing
- Swollen, red tonsils
- White or yellow patches on the tonsils
- Fever
- Headache
- Fatigue
- Bad breath
Is tonsillitis contagious? Yes, tonsillitis can be contagious, especially when caused by viral or bacterial infections. It spreads through close contact with infected individuals, sharing utensils, or exposure to respiratory droplets.
How is tonsillitis diagnosed? Doctors typically diagnose tonsillitis through a physical examination of the throat and by asking about symptoms. In some cases, a throat swab may be taken to determine if the infection is bacterial or viral.
Top 10 Home Remedies for Tonsillitis Relief
While severe cases of tonsillitis may require medical intervention, many mild to moderate cases can be managed effectively at home. Here are ten proven home remedies to alleviate tonsillitis symptoms:
1. Salt Water Gargle
Why it works: Gargling with warm salt water helps reduce swelling and provides temporary pain relief. It also helps remove bacteria and loosens mucus in the throat.
How to do it: Mix 1/2 teaspoon of salt in 8 ounces of warm water. Gargle with this solution for 30 seconds, then spit it out. Repeat several times a day.
2. Hydration
Why it’s important: Staying hydrated helps keep the throat moist, eases pain, and supports the immune system in fighting off the infection.
What to drink: Opt for warm liquids like herbal tea, broth, or warm water with honey and lemon. Cold liquids or ice chips can also provide relief.
3. Rest and Sleep
Why it matters: Adequate rest allows the body to focus its energy on fighting the infection and promotes faster healing.
How much rest is needed? Aim for at least 8-10 hours of sleep per night and take naps during the day if possible.
4. Honey
Why it’s effective: Honey has natural antibacterial properties and can help soothe a sore throat.
How to use it: Take a spoonful of raw honey or mix it into warm tea. For children over one year old, honey can be a safe and effective remedy.
5. Humidifier
Why it helps: A humidifier adds moisture to the air, which can help soothe irritated throat tissues and ease breathing.
How to use it: Run a cool-mist humidifier in your bedroom at night. Be sure to clean it regularly to prevent mold growth.
Natural Remedies to Boost Immune Function and Fight Tonsillitis
In addition to symptom relief, certain natural remedies can help strengthen the immune system and combat the underlying infection causing tonsillitis:
6. Vitamin C
Why it’s beneficial: Vitamin C is known for its immune-boosting properties and can help reduce the duration of respiratory infections.
How to incorporate it: Consume vitamin C-rich foods like citrus fruits, berries, and leafy greens. Supplements can also be taken under medical guidance.
7. Zinc
Why it matters: Zinc plays a crucial role in immune function and may help reduce the severity and duration of throat infections.
How to get enough: Include zinc-rich foods in your diet, such as lean meats, nuts, and seeds. Zinc lozenges may also provide relief.
8. Probiotics
Why they’re important: Probiotics support gut health and overall immune function, which can help the body fight off infections more effectively.
Where to find them: Consume probiotic-rich foods like yogurt, kefir, and sauerkraut, or consider a high-quality probiotic supplement.
Over-the-Counter Medications for Tonsillitis Symptom Relief
While natural remedies can be effective, over-the-counter medications can provide additional relief for tonsillitis symptoms:
9. Pain Relievers
Which ones to use: Acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) can help reduce pain and fever associated with tonsillitis.
Precautions: Follow dosage instructions carefully and avoid giving aspirin to children due to the risk of Reye’s syndrome.
10. Throat Lozenges
How they help: Throat lozenges can provide temporary relief from pain and help keep the throat moist.
What to look for: Choose lozenges with ingredients like benzocaine or menthol for added numbing effects.
When to Seek Medical Attention for Tonsillitis
While many cases of tonsillitis can be managed at home, certain situations require professional medical care. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
- Difficulty breathing or swallowing
- Severe pain that interferes with eating or drinking
- High fever (above 101°F or 38.3°C) that persists for more than 24 hours
- Swollen lymph nodes in the neck
- Symptoms that worsen or don’t improve after 3-4 days of home treatment
- Recurrent episodes of tonsillitis
Prevention Strategies: Reducing the Risk of Tonsillitis
While it’s not always possible to prevent tonsillitis, certain measures can help reduce the risk of infection:
- Practice good hygiene: Wash hands frequently and avoid touching your face
- Avoid close contact with infected individuals
- Don’t share utensils, cups, or personal items
- Maintain a healthy lifestyle: Eat a balanced diet, exercise regularly, and get adequate sleep
- Avoid smoking and exposure to secondhand smoke
- Manage stress levels, as chronic stress can weaken the immune system
Can tonsillitis be prevented through vaccination? While there’s no specific vaccine for tonsillitis, staying up-to-date with recommended vaccinations can help prevent some infections that may lead to tonsillitis.
Chronic Tonsillitis: When to Consider Tonsillectomy
For some individuals, recurrent or chronic tonsillitis may warrant consideration of a tonsillectomy, the surgical removal of the tonsils. This procedure is typically recommended in cases where:
- Tonsillitis occurs frequently (more than 7 episodes in one year, 5 episodes per year for two consecutive years, or 3 episodes per year for three consecutive years)
- Infections are severe or don’t respond well to antibiotics
- Enlarged tonsils cause breathing or swallowing difficulties
- Tonsil infections lead to other complications, such as peritonsillar abscess
What are the pros and cons of tonsillectomy? While tonsillectomy can provide relief from chronic infections, it’s important to consider potential risks and recovery time. Discuss the benefits and drawbacks with your healthcare provider to make an informed decision.
Tonsillitis in Children: Special Considerations and Care
Tonsillitis is particularly common in children, and caring for a child with this condition requires some special considerations:
Recognizing Symptoms in Children
Young children may not be able to articulate their symptoms clearly. Watch for signs such as:
- Refusal to eat or drink
- Drooling (due to difficulty swallowing)
- Irritability or unusual fussiness
- Changes in sleep patterns
- Ear pain (tonsillitis can sometimes cause referred ear pain)
Adapting Home Remedies for Children
When treating tonsillitis in children, consider these adaptations:
- Use a pediatric formulation of over-the-counter pain relievers
- Offer popsicles or ice cream to soothe the throat and encourage fluid intake
- Use a cool-mist humidifier in the child’s room
- Encourage rest and provide plenty of comforting attention
How can you encourage a child with tonsillitis to eat and drink? Offer soft, cool foods like yogurt, smoothies, or lukewarm soup. Avoid acidic or spicy foods that may irritate the throat.
Tonsillitis and COVID-19: Distinguishing Symptoms and Precautions
During the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, it’s important to be aware of how tonsillitis symptoms may overlap with those of COVID-19:
Similarities and Differences
Both conditions can cause sore throat and fever. However, COVID-19 is more likely to be accompanied by:
- Dry cough
- Loss of taste or smell
- Shortness of breath
- Fatigue
When to Get Tested
If you’re unsure whether your symptoms are due to tonsillitis or COVID-19, it’s best to consult with a healthcare provider. They may recommend COVID-19 testing to rule out the virus.
What precautions should you take if you suspect tonsillitis during the pandemic? Practice self-isolation until you can be evaluated by a healthcare provider, wear a mask when interacting with others, and follow local health guidelines.
In conclusion, while tonsillitis can be uncomfortable and disruptive, many cases can be effectively managed at home with natural remedies and over-the-counter treatments. By understanding the causes, symptoms, and appropriate care strategies, you can navigate this common condition with confidence. Remember to seek medical attention if symptoms are severe or persistent, and always prioritize prevention through good hygiene and healthy lifestyle habits.
Tonsillitis: Care Instructions | Kaiser Permanente
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Overview
Tonsillitis is an infection of the tonsils that is caused by bacteria or a virus. The tonsils are in the back of the throat and are part of the immune system. Tonsillitis typically lasts from a few days up to a couple of weeks.
Tonsillitis caused by a virus goes away on its own. Tonsillitis caused by the bacteria that causes strep throat is treated with antibiotics.
You and your doctor may consider surgery to remove the tonsils (tonsillectomy) if you have serious complications or repeat infections.
Follow-up care is a key part of your treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and call your doctor if you are having problems. It’s also a good idea to know your test results and keep a list of the medicines you take.
How can you care for yourself at home?
Home care can help with a sore throat and other symptoms. Here are some things you can do to help yourself feel better.
- If your doctor prescribed antibiotics, take them as directed. Do not stop taking them just because you feel better. You need to take the full course of antibiotics.
- Gargle with warm salt water. This helps reduce swelling and relieve discomfort. Gargle once an hour with 1 teaspoon of salt mixed in 8 fluid ounces of warm water.
- Take an over-the-counter pain medicine, such as acetaminophen (Tylenol), ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), or naproxen (Aleve). Be safe with medicines. Read and follow all instructions on the label. No one younger than 20 should take aspirin. It has been linked to Reye syndrome, a serious illness.
- Be careful when taking over-the-counter cold or flu medicines and Tylenol at the same time. Many of these medicines have acetaminophen, which is Tylenol. Read the labels to make sure that you are not taking more than the recommended dose. Too much acetaminophen (Tylenol) can be harmful.
- Try lozenges or an over-the-counter throat spray to relieve throat pain.
- Drink plenty of fluids. Fluids may help soothe an irritated throat. Drink warm or cool liquids (whichever feels better). These include tea, soup, and juice.
- Do not smoke, and avoid secondhand smoke. Smoking can make tonsillitis worse. If you need help quitting, talk to your doctor about stop-smoking programs and medicines. These can increase your chances of quitting for good.
- Use a vaporizer or humidifier to add moisture to your bedroom. Follow the directions for cleaning the machine.
- Get plenty of rest.
When should you call for help?
Call your doctor now or seek immediate medical care if:
- Your pain gets worse on one side of your throat.
- You have a new or higher fever.
- You notice changes in your voice.
- You have trouble opening your mouth.
- You have any trouble breathing.
- You have much more trouble swallowing.
- You have a fever with a stiff neck or a severe headache.
- You are sensitive to light or feel very sleepy or confused.
Watch closely for changes in your health, and be sure to contact your doctor if:
- You do not get better after 2 days.
Where can you learn more?
Go to https://www.healthwise.net/patientEd
Enter M655 in the search box to learn more about “Tonsillitis: Care Instructions”.
10 Things You Can Do to Treat Tonsillitis at Home | Arizona Desert Ear, Nose & Throat Specialists
Posted on by Arizona Desert Ear, Nose & Throat Specialists
Tonsil infections are a common ailment for kids in Goodyear—a rite of passage for many. Doctors frequently turned to surgery in the past but are far less likely to pick up a scalpel nowadays, preferring to see if home remedies will do the trick instead.
Why the Tonsils are Prone to Infection
The tonsils are small, oval-shaped organs in the back of the throat made up of soft tissue. They serve as a defense mechanism, helping the immune system ward off bacteria and viruses. Unfortunately, their frequent contact with germs makes them susceptible to inflammation and infection. This can lead to tonsillitis.
Viral infections are responsible for most cases of tonsillitis; bacterial infections make up between 15-30 percent of cases. Most children in Goodyear will suffer at least one case of tonsillitis while growing up. Because the tonsils begin to shrink around the age of 12, infections are much rarer in adults.
The go-to treatment for tonsillitis has long been surgical removal, but tonsillectomy has fallen out of favor in recent years; it’s viewed as an unnecessary procedure in otherwise health patients. Your Goodyear ENT recommends at-home treatments instead.
The Most Successful Treatments Include:
- Drinking warm liquids. Soup, broth and tea help soothe irritation associated with swelling and infection. Additionally, herbal teas contain ingredients like honey and glycerine, which form a protective film over the mucous membranes in the mouth and throat.
- Eating cold foods. Kids were often given the green light to eat ice cream following a tonsillectomy. There was a reason for this: cold, soft foods numb the throat, helping to relieve pain. Ice cream, frozen yogurt, Popsicles and smoothies are all excellent choices.
- Avoiding hard foods. Hard, sharp foods can scratch and irritate the throat, worsening irritation. Stay away from foods such as potato chips, crackers, cereal, toast, apples and carrots.
- Gargling with warm salt water. Dissolving a quarter teaspoon of salt in 8 ounces of warm water and gargling for several seconds before spitting the water out helps soothe throat pain and irritation. Repeat this every couple of hours.
- Using a humidifier. Humidifiers add moisture to the air, helping to soothe irritated passageways. If you don’t have a humidifier, running a hot shower, closing the bathroom door and inhaling warm steam will also do the trick.
- Avoid straining the voice. Throat inflammation can cause a muffled voice. Resting your voice as much as possible will help prevent strain and further irritation.
- Getting rest. Resting helps your body build up strength to fight off the infection. Get as much sleep as possible so your body can heal. Staying home instead of going to school or work will also prevent the possibility of infecting others.
- Using over-the-counter pain relievers. Alleviate throat pain and discomfort by taking ibuprofen or acetaminophen. Don’t give young children aspirin; this can cause a potentially fatal illness called Reye’s syndrome.
- Sucking on throat lozenges. Lozenges include soothing ingredients like menthol, which help numb the throat, relieve irritation and reduce swelling. Keep in mind that they pose a choking hazard to young children and should be avoided.
- Using throat sprays. Over-the-counter throat sprays contain anesthetic, anti-inflammatory and antiseptic medications that can relieve pain and inflammation. Look for sprays with ingredients such as benzydamine, phenol, dibucaine, benzocaine, benzyl alcohol, cetylpryidimium chloride and chlorhexidine gluconate.
If tonsillitis doesn’t resolve after a few days or is accompanied by the following symptoms, make an appointment with a Goodyear ear, nose and throat specialist for further evaluation:
- A sore throat that lasts more than two days
- Pain so severe it interferes with eating and drinking
- Difficulty breathing or swallowing
- Extreme weakness and fatigue
- A fever that lasts longer than three days
Chronic tonsillitis compensated or simple
The compensated form of chronic tonsillitis has practically no symptoms of the general reaction of the body. Symptoms appear in the region of the palatine tonsils themselves, and the pharyngeal tonsil and lymph nodes in the neck may also be involved. The danger of a compensated form is that without treatment it can become decompensated. The probability and speed of this event cannot be predicted.
Features of the course of the disease
Periodic acute microbial inflammation – sore throats become almost constant over time. Microbes and even entire microbial communities of different species multiply on and inside the tonsils. Chronic tonsillitis of a compensated form differs from tonsillitis in that there is no complete cleansing of painful microbes on the tonsils.
Frequent complaints
Chronic tonsillitis of compensated form has only local symptoms. Most often, the sore throat, possibly spreading to the tongue, neck. Pain can be very long or constant. Sometimes the pain is only on one side. When swallowing, they usually increase. Another symptom: plaque and spots on the tonsils in the throat. It is a breeding ground for microbes and dead leukocytes. In the area of the tonsils, redness, an increase in their size, the appearance of films, adhesions with arches, swelling of the arches, pain and other unpleasant sensations in this area are noted. There may be a dry cough and bad breath.
Treatment of chronic tonsillitis of compensated form
Description of the treatment process
Treatment of chronic tonsillitis consists of antimicrobial therapy and additional restorative and local effects. It is highly desirable to determine the types of microbes present and their susceptibility to drugs. Antimicrobial therapy is antibiotics combined with rinsing with antiseptics, bacteriophages. Physiotherapy can increase the effectiveness of antibiotic treatment as well as reduce structural changes in the tonsils from chronic inflammation.
Terms of treatment
Antimicrobial treatment of chronic compensated tonsillitis continues for two weeks or more. After completion of antibiotic treatment, general strengthening therapy, physiotherapy and rinsing should be continued to prevent relapse for several months. If recurrences occur despite the ongoing treatment, surgical removal of the tonsils is recommended, the terms for its implementation and rehabilitation after it are short.
Forecast
The likelihood of complete recovery after treatment of chronic compensated tonsillitis depends on many factors. The age of the patient, the duration of the development of the disease is important. The prognosis for a full recovery also depends on the patient’s desire to be cured, the implementation of the doctor’s recommendations, and the rejection of bad habits.
Why is neglected chronic tonsillitis of a compensated form dangerous?
As hostile microflora is constantly present in the palatine tonsils, the body tries to pick up immune keys against them – antibodies. However, the antibodies produced over and over again are ineffective. The reason for this inefficiency is partly because, over the course of evolution, some bacteria have made their surface similar to that of human cells. During chronic tonsillitis, more and more new variants of antibodies are synthesized. Some of these options act not only against microbes, but also against their own tissues. The compensated form causes an autoimmune disease and may become decompensated.
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What is inflammation of the tonsils (tonsillitis)? What are the symptoms?
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- What is inflammation of the tonsils (tonsillitis)? What are the symptoms?
Tonsillitis is an infection of the tonsils. Common symptoms include a sore throat with fever, swollen tonsils, difficulty swallowing, and swollen lymph nodes. Treatment for tonsillitis depends on the cause of the infection. Although it is most common in children, tonsillitis can affect people of all ages.
What is tonsillitis?
Tonsillitis occurs when the tonsils become infected. The tonsils are two small soft tissue tubercles located at the back of the throat. You can see the tonsils in the mirror by opening your mouth and sticking out your tongue.
Tonsils, which are part of the immune system, help trap germs that make a person sick. When the tonsils become infected, they swell, hurt, and may hurt when swallowed. Tonsillopharyngitis is an inflammation of the tissues of the pharynx and tonsils together.
Who gets tonsillitis (inflammation of the tonsils)?
Tonsillitis is most common in children but can affect people of all ages. Tonsillitis is rare in children under the age of three.
How common is tonsillitis?
Tonsillitis is very common. Most people experience tonsillitis at least once in their lives.
How does tonsillitis (inflammation of the tonsils) feel?
The most common symptom is a very sore throat. You may feel quite tired and lethargic, as if you have a bad cold or the flu. People with tonsillitis may also experience a number of other symptoms, which will be described below.
What are the symptoms of general tonsillitis (inflammation of the tonsils)?
Symptoms of tonsillitis usually appear suddenly. Here are some of them:
- Sore throat or itching,
- Pain or difficulty swallowing,
- Red, swollen tonsils and throat
- Whitish spots on tonsils or formation of white, yellow, gray coating on tonsils,
- Fever 38 degrees Celsius or more
- Swollen lymph nodes (glands on the sides of the neck, under the ears),
- Abdominal pain or vomiting (more common in young children).
Is tonsillitis (inflammation of the tonsils) viral or bacterial?
Tonsillitis can be viral or bacterial:
- Viral tonsillitis: Viruses such as the common cold and flu cause 70% of tonsillitis cases.
- Bacterial tonsillitis or acute pharyngitis. Bacteria such as group A streptococci cause other cases of tonsillitis. Bacterial tonsillitis is often referred to as tonsillitis. People who don’t have tonsils can also get tonsillitis.
Is tonsillitis contagious?
The viruses and bacteria that cause tonsillitis are highly contagious. They are transmitted in the following ways:
- Kissing or sharing utensils (food or drink).
- Close contact with a sick person.
- Touching a contaminated surface and then touching the nose or mouth.
- Inhalation of small particles released into the air when an ill person sneezes or coughs.
How is tonsillitis diagnosed?
To diagnose tonsillitis, your doctor will do the following:
- Examines the throat for redness, swelling, or white spots on the tonsils.
- The doctor will ask about other symptoms such as fever, cough, runny nose, rash or stomach pain.
- Your doctor will examine your ears and nose for other signs of infection.
- The doctor will also check the sides of the neck with their hand to see if the lymph nodes are swollen or tender.
- After confirming the diagnosis of tonsillitis, the doctor will need to determine whether the infection is caused by a virus or bacteria (tonsillitis). To do this, he may request a bacterial culture test.
During this procedure, the doctor will clean the back of the throat with a long cotton swab to collect cells and saliva. The sample will then be tested to make sure the group A streptococcal bacteria test is positive. If the result is positive, it means you have a throat infection. If the results are negative, then the person most likely has viral tonsillitis.
How is tonsillitis (inflammation of the tonsils) treated?
Treatment for tonsillitis depends on what caused the infection. Although the symptoms of viral tonsillitis and bacterial tonsillitis are similar, their treatment is different.
How is bacterial tonsillitis (inflammation of the tonsils) treated?
Doctors treat bacterial tonsillitis (tonsillitis) with antibiotics. Antibiotics are not given without a prescription. Antibiotics are usually taken by mouth for about 10 days. Most commonly used antibiotics for angina:
- Penicillin,
- Clindamycin,
- Cephalosporin.
Even if the person feels better after a few days, it is important to follow the doctor’s instructions and take all antibiotics. Antibiotics should be stopped to prevent the infection from returning, getting worse, or spreading to another part of the body.
How is viral tonsillitis (inflammation of the tonsils) treated?
Antibiotics used to treat bacterial tonsillitis will not work for tonsillitis caused by a viral infection. To help relieve the symptoms of viral tonsillitis, your doctor will recommend the following:
- More rest,
- Drink plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration
- OTC pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen
- Throat lozenges.
What if I have persistent tonsillitis (inflammation of the tonsils)?
If a person has chronic or recurrent tonsil infections, a doctor may recommend a tonsillectomy. This is the surgical removal of the tonsils.
Does tonsillitis (inflammation of the tonsils) go away on its own?
In most cases, tonsillitis symptoms disappear within three to four days, but if symptoms persist for longer, you should make an appointment with your doctor to rule out other more serious problems.
How to relieve the symptoms of tonsillitis?
To relieve the symptoms of viral and bacterial tonsillitis, you can do the following:
- Using over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen.
- Drinking warm liquids
- Gargling with warm salt water
- Use of throat lozenges.
Are there complications associated with tonsillitis (inflammation of the tonsils)?
Complications of tonsillitis are often associated with tonsillitis and streptococcal bacteria. Here they are:
- Chronic tonsillitis: People who have tonsillitis more than seven times a year may have chronic tonsillitis. Doctors may recommend surgery to remove the tonsils, especially if the person snores or has difficulty sleeping at night.
- Tonsil stones: People with long-term infected or inflamed tonsils may develop tonsil stones. Tonsil stones are hard, calcified particles of bacteria and debris that hide in the nooks and crannies of the tonsils.
- Scarlet fever: strep throat may become scarlet, causing a red rash and fever. Scarlet fever is more common in children than adults, but is rare.
- Peritonsillar abscess: In severe cases of tonsillitis, an abscess (collection of pus) may form around the tonsils. Peritonsillar abscesses occur more frequently in adults and adolescents than in children. Doctors often recommend surgery to drain an abscess.
- Rheumatic fever: Although rare, rheumatic fever can occur if strep throat is not treated or antibiotics are not used at all. Rheumatic fever is more common in children than adults and can cause permanent damage to the heart.
- Spread of infection: Untreated streptococcal bacteria can spread from the throat to the middle ear, sinuses, or other parts of the body. This infection can lead to complications such as sinusitis, glomerulonephritis, or necrotizing fasciitis.
How can I prevent tonsillitis (inflammation of the tonsils)?
Although tonsillitis cannot be completely prevented, there are things you can do to reduce your risk. For example;
- Wash your hands frequently, especially before touching your nose or mouth.
- Do not share food, drink or utensils with a sick person
- Change your toothbrush regularly.
Tonsillitis (inflammation of the tonsils) takes how many days to heal?
Most cases of viral tonsillitis (tonsillitis) resolve within a few days with fluid intake and adequate rest. Antibiotics usually cure bacterial tonsillitis (streptococcal pharyngitis) in about 10 days. Tonsillitis usually does not cause serious or long-term health problems.
How serious is tonsillitis in adults?
Tonsillitis is no more serious in adults than in children. However, there may be some risk factors that can increase the likelihood of adults developing this disease. These risk factors are:
Age: people over 65 are more vulnerable to all kinds of infections.
Presence of tonsils: If the tonsils have not been removed, the chance of getting tonsillitis is higher.
Frequent contact with children: parents, grandparents, teachers and others who work closely with children are more likely to get tonsillitis.
Adults are also more likely to develop a peritonsillar abscess as a result of tonsillitis.
How long does tonsillitis last?
Most tonsillitis symptoms resolve within 3-4 days. As noted above, a doctor should be consulted if symptoms persist for longer than this.