Is your sore throat actually tonsillitis? Doctor explains symptoms, treatment and warning signs

If your sore throat is not getting any better and additional signs pop up, high time you get it checked as tonsillitis could be one of the reasons.

During monsoon season, many fall sick, with sore throats being particularly common. However, not every sore throat is a minor irritation that will go down on its own.

Dr MK Singh, director and senior consultant, internal medicine at Narayana Hospital, Gurugram, told HT Lifestyle that a sore throat accompanied by fever, swollen tonsils, difficulty swallowing, or pain extending down the side of the neck or towards the ear could indicate tonsillitis.

So, what is tonsillitis, and when do its symptoms require medical attention? The specialist outlined everything you need to know, from prevention and treatment to warning signs that should not be ignored.

What is tonsillitis?

The doctor described tonsilitis to be an inflammation and swelling of masses of tissue that are located at the back of the throat.

What are the causes and typical symptoms? He added, “Generally, it is caused by a virus, but sometimes it is caused by a bacterium, for example, group A Streptococcus."

What are the symptoms?

High fever is a common sign. (Picture credit: Freepik)

Dr Singh identified the most common symptoms to be sore throat, fever, red or enlarged tonsils, difficulty, swallowing, headache, fatigue, bad breath, and swollen lymph nodes in the neck. In some cases, white patches or pus may also appear on the tonsils.

Since viral and bacterial tonsillitis can cause similar symptoms, the expert expressed concern that it may be difficult to distinguish between them at home. Therefore, it is best to consult a healthcare professional promptly for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Don't try to self-medicate or treat your persisting sore throat at home.

What is the treatment of tonsillitis?

Treatment depends on the underlying causes. The doctor gave insights on treatment. He said,“Viral tonsillitis typically resolves on its own, and treatment aims to ease symptoms while the body fights the infection. Rest, sufficient fluids, and proper pain and fever medication will help make recovery more comfortable.”

On the medication front, Dr Singh mentioned paracetamol or ibuprofen, adding that they may be taken after consulting a healthcare professional to relieve pain and fever, provided they are safe for individuals. Gargling with warm salt water may temporarily soothe throat pain. It is also important to drink plenty of fluids, especially when swallowing is difficult.

Now, when are antibiotics required? Can they stop working? The doctor shared the clinical nuance that they are used only for bacterial tonsillitis and should not be taken unless prescribed by a healthcare professional. Antibiotics are ineffective against viral tonsillitis, and taking them unnecessarily may add to antibiotic resistance. In severe or complicated cases, particularly when tonsillitis recurs frequently, the doctor believed that surgical removal of the tonsils, known as tonsillectomy, is an option.

Is it possible to prevent tonsillitis?

Preventive healthcare is one of the main areas of a healthy lifestyle, but the doctor offered a reality check: cases caused by common viruses may not always be preventable. However, these infections can be contagious, which means maintaining good hygiene may help minimise their spread.

“Washing hands regularly, not sharing cups, bottles, cutlery, and other personal items, and covering mouth and nose when coughing and sneezing will help. It's also advisable not to be around others when sick,” he mentioned some hygiene practices to follow when you are sick with tonsillitis.

Tonsillitis cannot always be prevented completely, but you can follow some lifestyle practices that support your immune system for better recovery. For this, the doctor outlined the essentials: adequate sleep, staying hydrated, and following a balanced diet.

When to seek medical help?

When can tonsillitis be a health emergency and strongly require;

• Severe throat pain or fever
• Symptoms that persist or continue to worsen
• More difficulty swallowing
• Severe swelling in or around the throat
• Severe swelling in or around the throat
• Difficulty opening your mouth
• Throat or ear pain affecting only one side
• A muffled or altered voice

These symptoms may signal what the doctor referred to as a serious complication known as a peritonsillar abscess or quinsy. This means, you should seek immediate medical help if you have trouble breathing, cannot swallow your saliva, or experience a sudden increase in throat swelling.

When will it fully recover?

Despite the fever and sore throat having already subsided, complete recovery may take longer. The expert suggested getting adequate rest, staying hydrated, and following medical advice. The recovery timeline may also depend on whether the infection is viral or bacterial and the treatment required.

But treat these two signs as an emergency: any symptoms worsening rapidly or if they affect the ability to swallow or breathe.

Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.