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Tonsillitis - Tonsil Infections
The tonsils are two small sacs of lymphatic tissue near the root of the tongue. Normal tonsils are usually about the same size and have the same pink color as the surrounding area. Tonsils, like any other body organ, have a specific role to play. The basic function of these tissues is to build up immunity to common infectious organisms and to protect the throat and lungs from infection. They are most active in childhood when many infections are encountered for the first time, and reach full size when the child is six or seven. The tonsils work as a filter which fights and protects the entire human system against the foreign organisms. Tonsils produce antibodies, which fight against the infection, stopping its further spread to other parts of the body. The most common problems occurring with the tonsils are recurrent or chronic infections and significant enlargement (hypertrophy). Tonsillitis is an inflammatory condition of the tonsils due to bacteria, allergies or respiratory problems. When inflamed, tonsils become swollen and red with a grayish or yellowish coating on its surface. Tonsillitis usually begins with a sudden sore throat and painful swallowing. Tonsillitis causes tonsils and throat tissues to swell obstructing air from passing in and out of the respiratory system. The tonsils infection is common in children and teenagers but rare in adults. Acute Tonsillitis Chronic Tonsillitis Recurrent tonsillitis Viruses. Viruses are the most common pathogens responsible for tonsillitis in children under the age of 6 years[5]. A number of respiratory viruses can cause tonsillitis, including the Reovirus, Adenovirus, Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), Influenza virus, echoviruses[4]. Bacteria. Bacteria cause tonsillitis more frequently in older children and adults than in young children. Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus pyogenes (a group A Streptococcus) are the most common bacteria that cause tonsillitis. Haemophilus influenzae is also frequent cause of tonsil infection[3]. Klebsiella pneumonia, Streptococcus pneumonia, Escherichia coli and Enterobacter may also cause tonsillitis, however are more prevalent in adults[1] [2]. Other causes. In rare instances, tonsillitis can also be caused by fungi or parasites. The main symptom of tonsillitis is severe pain in the anterior neck area. Tonsillitis typically causes your tonsils to become visibly red and swollen. You may also notice patches of white discharge on infected tonsils. Tonsillitis symptoms include:
When should the tonsils be removed? Today tonsils are no longer routinely removed after one or two episodes of acute infection. If one or more of the following conditions are present, surgery to remove the tonsils (tonsillectomy) may be recommended:
Tonsillectomy is considered in those patients who are suffering, or may suffer serious complications of infection. These include peritonsillar abscess, history of streptococcal complications (rheumatic heart disease, glomerulonephritis), or neck abscess. Treatment options and self help for swollen tonsils
There are many effective natural alternatives to OTC medicines and antibiotics routinely prescribed for tonsillitis. Natural herbal and homeopathic remedies can help to safely reduce the symptoms of these conditions, clear the infection, cut recovery time and also strengthen the immune system to prevent recurring infection. References:
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