Causes/Factors
Most commonly caused by Viruses - rhino, corona, Influenza, adeno
- Viral Infections: Common cold Viruses (rhino, corona, adeno), flu Viruses, and others can cause tonsillitis and pharyngitis.
- Bacterial Infections: Streptococcus bacteria (Group A Streptococcus) can cause strep throat, a type of tonsillitis/pharyngitis.
- Environmental Factors: Allergies, smoke, pollution, and dry air can irritate the throat.
Symptoms
- Sore throat: Pain or irritation in the throat, especially when swallowing.
- Redness and Swelling: Inflammation of the tonsils and/or pharynx.
- Fever: Elevated body temperature.
- Cough: Dry or productive cough.
- Tonsil Stones: White or yellowish deposits on the tonsils.
- Swollen Lymph Nodes: Tenderness and swelling in the neck.
- Difficulty Swallowing: Due to pain and discomfort.
Signs
Diagnostic Tests
FeverPAIN Criteria - to determine whether antibiotics might be needed
- Fever (during previous 24 hours)
- Purulence (pus on tonsils)
- Attend rapidly (within 3 days after onset)
- severely Inflamed tonsils
- No cough or coryza
If needed:
- FBC, U&Es
Management
- Viral Infections: Rest, hydration, and over-the-counter pain relievers.
- Bacterial Infections: Antibiotics (if caused by streptococcus bacteria).
- Hydration: Drinking fluids to stay hydrated.
- Saltwater Gargle: Warm saltwater gargles for soothing the throat.
Complications/red Flags
- Complications of Untreated Strep Throat: Rheumatic Fever, kidney inflammation (post-streptococcal Glomerulonephritis), and others.
- Peritonsillar Abscess: Accumulation of pus around the tonsils.
- Airway Obstruction: Severe tonsillar swelling leading to breathing difficulties.