Tonsillitis: A Painful Throat Infection
Tonsillitis is a common condition, especially in children, where the tonsils become inflamed and swollen. The tonsils are two oval-shaped pads of tissue located at the back of the throat. They act as filters, trapping germs that could otherwise enter your airways and cause infection.
Causes
Tonsillitis can be caused by:
- Viral infections: Common cold viruses, influenza, and adenovirus are frequent culprits.
- Bacterial infections: Group A Streptococcus bacterium, responsible for strep throat, is a common cause.
Symptoms
The main symptoms of tonsillitis include:
- Sore throat: This is often the most prominent symptom, making swallowing painful.
- Swollen tonsils: The tonsils appear enlarged and red.
- White or yellow patches: These may form on the tonsils, indicating a bacterial infection.
- Fever: A high fever is common, especially with bacterial infections.
- Difficulty swallowing: Painful swallowing can lead to decreased appetite.
- Headache: A headache may accompany the throat pain.
- Swollen lymph nodes: The lymph nodes in the neck may become swollen and tender.
- Bad breath: This can occur due to the infection and inflammation.