Tonsillitis
Treatment:
If the cause of the tonsillitis is bacteria such as strep, antibiotics are given to cure the infection. The antibiotics may be given by one-time intramuscular injection, or by a 10 day course of oral antibiotics. If oral antibiotics are used, they must continue for the full course and must not be discontinued just because the discomfort stops, or the infection will not be cured. Some health care providers will treat all tonsillitis with antibiotics to prevent the chance of strep-related complications. Others treat only known bacterial and strep infections to minimize the chance of reaction to the antibiotic.
Rest to allow the body to heal. Fluids, especially warm (not hot), bland fluids or very cold fluids may soothe the throat. Gargle with warm salt water or suck on lozenges (containing benzocaine or similar ingredients) to reduce pain.
Over-the-counter medications may be used to reduce pain and fever. Do not use aspirin in children if the infection could be viral, because this may be associated with Reye's syndrome.
Surgery to remove the tonsils (tonsillectomy) may be necessary for some people.
Expectations (prognosis):
Tonsillitis symptoms usually lessen in 2 or 3 days after treatment is initiated. The infection usually is cured by then but may require more than one course of antibiotics. Complications of untreated strep tonsillitis may be severe. A tonsillectomy may be recommended if tonsillitis is severe, recurs often, or does not respond to antibiotics.
Complications:
Calling your health care provider:
Call your health care provider if sore throat persists longer than 48 hours or is accompanied by other symptoms of tonsillitis, or if symptoms worsen, or new symptoms develop.
|
