Tonsillitis over the counter: 10 home treatments for relief from tonsillitis
10 home treatments for relief from tonsillitis
The term tonsillitis refers to inflammation of the tonsils. The tonsils are two oval-shaped glands that sit at the back of the throat. Their role is to fight off bacteria and viruses that enter the body through the nose and mouth.
Most cases of tonsillitis occur due to a viral infection. Bacterial infections are responsible for about 15–30% of cases.
Tonsillitis can affect anyone, but it is more common in children. According to the American Academy of Otolaryngology, almost all children in the United States will experience at least one episode of tonsillitis.
In this article, we outline the best home treatments and over-the-counter (OTC) medications for alleviating the symptoms of tonsillitis.
The following home remedies can help treat tonsillitis or alleviate its symptoms.
1. Drinking plenty of warm liquids
Warm liquids, such as soup, can help sooth a sore throat.
Drinking warm liquids, including soups, broths, and teas, can help soothe a sore throat.
Herbal teas containing ingredients such as honey, pectin, or glycerine may help, as these ingredients form a protective film over the mucous membranes in the mouth and throat, which might soothe irritation.
However, there is only weak evidence that herbal teas help treat the symptoms of tonsillitis.
2. Eating cold foods
Eating cold, soft foods, such as frozen yogurt or ice cream, can numb the throat, offering temporary pain relief.
People can also try the following:
- sucking on popsicles
- drinking chilled smoothies
- sipping ice cold water
Other options include hard candies or chewing gums that contain mint or menthol. These ingredients provide a similar cooling and numbing sensation in the throat.
3. Avoiding hard foods
For people with tonsillitis, eating hard or sharp foods can be uncomfortable and even painful.
Hard foods may scratch the throat, leading to further irritation and inflammation. Foods to avoid include:
- chips
- crackers
- dry cereal
- toast
- raw carrots
- raw apples
People should try eating softer foods that are easier to swallow or stick to soups, broths, or chilled smoothies until their symptoms subside.
4. Gargling with salt water
Gargling with salt water may temporarily soothe pain or tickling in the back of the throat.
People can make a saltwater mixture by adding a quarter of a teaspoon of salt to 8 ounces of warm water and stirring the solution until the salt dissolves.
They can then gargle with the salt water for a few seconds before spitting it out. It is safe to repeat the process as often as necessary as long as the person avoids swallowing the mixture.
Gargling is not suitable for younger children as there is a risk that they will inhale the fluid and choke.
5. Increasing indoor humidity
Dry air can further irritate a sore throat. People with tonsillitis may benefit from using a cool mist humidifier. These devices release moisture back into the air, helping alleviate throat discomfort.
People should clean humidifiers daily to prevent the growth of harmful mold and bacteria.
Individuals who do not have access to a humidifier can instead try inhaling steam from a hot shower or bath.
6. Avoiding straining the voice
Swelling in the throat can cause the voice to become muffled. It may be tempting to counter this by raising the voice, but doing so risks further throat irritation.
If speaking is painful, a person should try to rest the voice as much as possible. They should also make an appointment with the doctor, as having difficulty speaking can sometimes indicate a complication.
7. Getting plenty of rest
People with tonsillitis should get as much rest as possible. Resting will allow the body to fight off the viral or bacterial infection.
Continuing to go to work or school not only increases the likelihood of a person being ill for longer, but it may also put others at risk of catching the infection.
8. Over-the-counter pain relievers
OTC analgesics can help relieve a sore throat, fever, and other painful symptoms of tonsillitis. Examples of these drugs include:
- acetaminophen
- ibuprofen
- aspirin
Aspirin is not suitable for children as it can cause a life threatening illness called Reye’s syndrome.
Taking analgesics at regular intervals can help sustain pain relief throughout the day.
9. Medicated throat lozenges
Some throat lozenges contain anesthetic medications to numb and soothe the throat. Many also contain anti-inflammatory drugs to reduce swelling and inflammation.
One of the benefits of throat lozenges is that they deliver pain relief directly to the site of inflammation.
Some lozenges also contain antiseptic agents. These help target the bacteria responsible for bacterial tonsillitis.
However, lozenges are not suitable for young children as they pose a choking risk. Some also contain benzocaine, which can have adverse effects in this population. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) advise parents and caregivers to avoid giving products containing benzocaine to children younger than 2 years unless a doctor recommends it.
10. Throat sprays and gargles
Throat sprays and gargles are another way to deliver anesthetic, anti-inflammatory, and antiseptic medications directly to the throat.
People can look for throat sprays with one of the following active ingredients:
- benzydamine
- phenol
- dibucaine
- benzocaine, for older children and adults only
- benzyl alcohol
- cetylpyridinium chloride
- chlorhexidine gluconate
Tonsillitis often resolves without treatment within a few days. However, some people may experience continued or worsening symptoms.
In some cases, this may indicate complications, such as an infection that has spread.
People should contact a doctor if they experience any of the following symptoms:
- a sore throat that lasts more than 2 days
- throat pain so severe that it is difficult to eat or drink
- labored breathing or swallowing
- extreme illness, weakness, or fatigue
- fever that lasts more than 3 days or goes away for more than a day and then returns
Parents and caregivers who notice signs of tonsillitis in a child should take them to see a doctor.
Peritonsillar abscess
If a sore throat lasts longer than 2 days, a person should speak to a doctor.
People should also see a doctor if they have symptoms of a potentially serious complication of tonsillitis called a peritonsillar abscess.
A peritonsillar abscess is a collection of pus that forms near one of the tonsils. This type of abscess forms when a bacterial infection spreads from an infected tonsil to the area surrounding it.
Symptoms of a peritonsillar abscess include:
- a severe sore throat that may be worse on one side
- swelling inside the mouth and throat
- difficulty speaking
- trouble swallowing
- breathing issues
- difficulty opening the mouth
- swollen lymph glands
- fever and chills
- an earache or neck pain on the side where the throat is sore
People who suspect that they have an abscess should make an urgent appointment with a doctor or go to the emergency room.
Without treatment, a peritonsillar abscess can lead to sepsis and severe breathing difficulties, both of which can be life threatening.
Tonsillitis is a common condition that can affect both children and adults.
Most cases of tonsillitis resolve without treatment within a few days. In the meantime, a range of home remedies and OTC treatments can help relieve bothersome symptoms.
Tonsillitis may sometimes result in more serious complications. People should see a doctor if they experience new symptoms or if their original symptoms persist or become worse.
Read the article in Spanish.
Antibiotics, Home Treatment, and More
Although tonsillitis is an infection that can strike at any time of the year, it tends to happen more often during flu and cold season. And that’s the case for a pretty simple reason: The number one cause of tonsillitis in adults and children is a common cold, says Nicholas Rowan, MD, assistant professor of otolaryngology at John Hopkins Medicine in Baltimore.
RELATED: Everything You Need to Know About the Cold and Flu
Tonsillitis is caused by either a viral or bacterial infection. Antibiotics are prescribed when tonsillitis is thought to be the result of the latter type of infection (as they can help symptoms and prevent complications), but not for tonsillitis caused by viral infections (because antibiotics don’t work against viruses), Dr. Rowan says.
“But in most cases the infections will resolve on their own without any antibiotics,” Rowan adds. And especially in these cases, managing tonsillitis symptoms at home is important to reduce pain and help you feel better as soon as possible.
How Long Will It Take My Tonsillitis to Go Away With or Without Antibiotics?
Tonsillitis caused by a bacterial infection, such as strep throat, would typically be treated with antibiotics because you’re much more likely to experience complications, says James Clark, MBBCh, an assistant professor of otolaryngology at Johns Hopkins Medicine in Baltimore.
“Once a person with strep starts antibiotics, we would expect them to have significant improvement of symptoms within the first 24 to 72 hours,” he says. (It may take three to five days for those people to recover without medication, he adds.)
RELATED: Everything You Need to Know About Strep Throat Treatment
For tonsillitis caused by a viral infection, antibiotics are not recommended, says Dr. Clark. “The infection would typically resolve itself within five to seven days without any intervention,” he says.
And if symptoms are still present at the end of that period the patient would be asked to return for a re-evaluation.
RELATED: How Doctors Diagnose and Treat Tonsillitis
Over-the-Counter Medication Can Reduce Pain and Fever
Over-the-counter (OTC) pain relievers are recommended to help pain and discomfort associated with tonsillitis, especially if you are having trouble swallowing, Clark says. Follow the recommendations on the packaging and be sure to check with your doctor if you have concerns or questions.
Recommended pain relievers include: (1)
- acetaminophen (Tylenol)
- ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin)
Both pain relievers have different advantages and potential downsides, Clark adds:
- Acetaminophen and ibuprofen have both been shown to reduce throat pain in randomized studies and will also help reduce inflammation and fever. (3)
- There is some data to suggest that ibuprofen is more effective for pain than acetaminophen, but the difference is small. (3)
- The risk profile for acetaminophen and ibuprofen are similar, although it has been suggested that ibuprofen should be avoided in dehydrated patients due to the increased risk for kidney damage. (4)
- Aspirin should be avoided in children as it can cause Reye’s syndrome. (5)
While you may see some purported benefits of complementary and integrative therapies for tonsillitis — such as probiotics, herbal therapies, homeopathic therapies, and dietary supplements — there are currently no quality, clinical studies to back up these treatments, according to Clark.
In some cases these therapies may actually be harmful, he adds. (6)
So like all therapies used, including mainstream treatments, it’s best to discuss with your doctor the potential benefits, risks, quality of the evidence, and costs before starting a new therapy or approach.
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Antibiotics for angina for adults and children without prescriptions
Publication date: 11/18/2022
CONTRAINDICATIONS. POSSIBLE SIDE EFFECTS. A SPECIALIST’S CONSULTATION IS REQUIRED. Antibiotics in capsules Antibiotics in tablets Sore throat
Author of the article
Sumenkova Anna Mikhailovna,
pharmacist
All authors
Contents of the article
90 014
associated with inflammation of the mucous membrane and lymphatic structures of the oropharynx.
Inflammation is localized on the tonsils and on the back of the pharynx.
Everyone at least once faced with pain when swallowing and stuffy throat. These are the main symptoms of tonsillitis (tonsillitis). According to statistics, every year general practitioners and pediatricians carry out up to 15 million consultations in connection with such a complaint.
There are main forms: catarrhal (the mildest form), lacunar (the most severe), follicular.
The most common pathogens are respiratory viruses and bacterial pathogens (group A beta-hemolytic streptococcus).
Pharmacist Anna Sumenkova will talk about the methods of treating tonsillitis.
Tablets
Recommend antibacterial drugs for the treatment of acute tonsillitis.
Antibiotics for angina: preparations of the penicillin series. The mechanism of action of antibacterial agents is based on the bactericidal effect (destruction of the pathogen).
Drug list:
Amoxiclav, Ecoclave, Flemoklav Solutab, Augmentin .
If the patient is allergic to this active substance, the doctor prescribes cephalosporin drugs – Suprax, Pancef, Cefixime.
Antibiotic treatment is also prescribed Azithromycin, Sumamed, Clarithromycin . The drugs belong to the group of macrolides. Their mechanism of action is based on bacteriostatic action (suppression of protein synthesis of microbial cells).
All products Amoxiclav
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All products Augmentin
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All products Flemoklav Solutab
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All products Ecoclave
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How many days to take antibiotics for angina
9000 2 Duration of admission is 10 days. Rapid treatment – the drug Azithromycin is taken in a course of 5 days. The course of taking and dosage of drugs is selected by the attending physician.
All items Suprax
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All items Sumamed
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All items Pantsef
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All products Azithromycin
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All products Clarithromycin
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For children
Antibiotics for angina in children are prescribed only in case of an antibacterial infection.
Recommend symptomatic therapy with drugs Ibuprofen and Paracetamol . To relieve pain in the throat, sprays Hexoral, Hexaspray, Tantum Verde are prescribed. Preparations can be used from 3 years.
Is it possible to cure angina without antibiotics
In the case when the disease is caused by viral or fungal pathogens, it makes no sense to treat angina with antibiotics.
A wide range of products for the symptomatic treatment of angina is currently on the market: medicines for rinsing, inhalation, lozenges, sprays for sore throats.
Without a prescription
You can buy medicines without a prescription in a pharmacy to eliminate the unpleasant symptoms of a sore throat. Sprays, solutions and tablets for sore throats, antipyretics and painkillers.
It is important to remember that only a doctor can prescribe an antibiotic.
Summary
- Acute tonsillopharyngitis or tonsillitis is an acute infection associated with inflammation of the mucous membrane and lymphatic structures of the oropharynx.
- The drugs of choice are penicillins.
- Antibiotics for angina in children are prescribed only in case of an antibacterial infection.
- There is currently a wide range of products on the market for the symptomatic treatment of angina.
- You can buy medicines without a prescription in a pharmacy to eliminate the unpleasant symptoms of a sore throat.
Sources
1. CLINICAL RECOMMENDATIONS (TREATMENT PROTOCOL) FOR THE PROVISION OF MEDICAL ASSISTANCE TO CHILDREN WITH TONSILLITIS (ACUTE STREPTOCOCCAL TONSILLITIS)
2. Russian Medical magazine
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rating of the top 5 inexpensive and effective remedies according to KP
Tonsillitis – inflammation of the palatine tonsils.
Its causes can be viruses (rhinovirus, enterovirus), bacteria (group A hemolytic streptococcus), fungi (Candida genus).
The main symptom of tonsillitis is a sore throat, which is aggravated by swallowing. There is also an increase in body temperature, general weakness, headache.
Effective remedies for tonsillitis come in different groups. Depending on the cause of tonsillitis, concomitant diseases, characteristics of the body, the doctor individually selects the treatment. Consider the most popular groups of drugs for the treatment of tonsillitis.
Rating of the top 5 remedies for tonsillitis according to the KP version
Local preparations with an antibacterial effect
These preparations include sprays, lozenges, gargles.
Lozenges usually have a pleasant taste, while sprays have a specific smell. At the heart of such funds there are auxiliary substances that anesthetize and envelop. This allows you to remove unpleasant symptoms immediately after use.
Since viruses, bacteria and fungi can be the cause of tonsillitis, local preparations are only symptomatic therapy, the main treatment is important – antiviral, antibacterial.
Advantages:
- sore throat may resolve after first use;
- are relatively harmless.
deficiencies:
- may cause temporary throat and tongue numbness.
Antibacterial agent is Vertum Lor spray. This drug fights mucosal inflammation, helps reduce pain when swallowing, and also has an antifungal effect. The drug “Vertum Lor” is based on a component of benzydamine, which is used not only for angina, but also for acute respiratory infections and inflammatory diseases of the oral cavity (as symptomatic therapy), for stomatitis, gingivitis, periodontal disease, inflammation of the salivary glands, after treatment and extraction of teeth, operations and injuries in the mouth and larynx, as well as in combination therapy for candidiasis of the oral mucosa.
The composition of the spray is enriched with a combination of “classic” excipients, natural mint flavor and sweeteners, due to which the product has a pleasant fresh taste.
Vertum Lor spray is suitable for the whole family (it is used in babies from 3 years old), it can be used several times a day, and an economical pack of 235 doses will last a long time.
There are not so many contraindications: in addition to age restrictions and individual hypersensitivity, it is not recommended for use during pregnancy and lactation.
Vertum Lor
Throat Spray
Mint-flavored preparation helps fight pain and inflammation in tonsillitis and more
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CONTRAINDICATIONS AVAILABLE. CONSULT WITH A SPECIALIST.
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Antibiotics
Bacteria (group A haemolytic streptococcus) are common causes of tonsillitis, so treatment should be based on antibacterial therapy.
The main groups of antibiotics are penicillins, cephalosporins, macrolides.
Since antibacterial drugs have a bad effect on the normal microflora, it is necessary to additionally take probiotics and eubiotics. This will avoid the development of dysbacteriosis.
For maximum effect, it is important to follow the terms of treatment and the dosage prescribed by the doctor.
Advantages:
- indicated in the treatment of bacterial tonsillitis;
- the effect of the treatment occurs after 24-48 hours.
Disadvantages:
- it is necessary to determine the sensitivity of bacteria to antibacterial drugs;
- additionally take drugs to avoid thrush;
- bacterial resistance to antibiotics may develop;
- are taken only after consulting a doctor.
Antiseptics
Antiseptics are used in combination for the treatment of tonsillitis.
Preparations of this group are represented by different active substances (chlorine, iodine, acids, alkalis, peroxide, alcohol) and have different mechanisms of action.
Antiseptic action involves the impact on pathogenic microorganisms, which leads to their death.
Advantages:
- local effect, little absorbed into the bloodstream;
- drug activity persists for several hours.
Drawbacks:
- there is a possibility of burns;
- dry mucous membranes appear;
- do not eat or drink immediately after use;
- possible allergic reaction.
Antihistamines
Antihistamines are a group of substances that block histamine receptors in the body. Histamine is a biologically active substance that regulates many physiological processes. Free histamine causes spasm of smooth muscles, lowering blood pressure, tissue swelling.
If you have tonsillitis, taking antihistamines can reduce swelling and pain.
Advantages:
- active against various pathogens;
- alleviate the condition a few minutes after taking.
Disadvantages:
- are part of the therapy;
- cause drowsiness.
Antipyretics
The drugs in this group are non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
Feeling better after using them. Since the drugs have a serious effect on the liver and gastrointestinal tract, their intake is limited to the maximum allowable dosage. However, antipyretic drugs are considered quite safe and are sold in pharmacies without a doctor’s prescription.
Advantages:
- have analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects;
- reduce body temperature.
Weaknesses:
- do not get rid of the cause of the disease;
- increased risk of gastrointestinal bleeding;
- hepatotoxicity.
How to choose tonsillitis remedies
Every pharmacy has at least a dozen tonsillitis remedies. It is important to know that the drug will be effective only when determining the cause of the disease.
A swab from the throat helps to identify the pathogen. It will be great if you immediately determine the sensitivity of microorganisms to antibacterial drugs.
Even before visiting a doctor it is recommended:
- to use antiseptic preparations – they prevent excessive growth of pathological microorganisms;
- topical antimicrobials – to relieve sore throat;
- antipyretic – when the temperature rises above 38 degrees;
- antihistamines – to reduce the severity of edema.
Popular Questions and Answers
We discussed important issues related to tonsillitis from therapist Tatyana Pomerantseva .
Why does tonsillitis occur?
Tonsillitis is caused by various pathogenic microorganisms, viruses. Infection of a person occurs through close contact with an infected person, when talking, sneezing. Caries can also be the cause of tonsillitis. People with a weakened immune system are most susceptible to the disease.