Tonsillitis is a very common ailment, affecting several people all over the world. This condition occurs when there is an inflammation in the tonsils, which are the two pads of fleshy tissues situated at the back of the throat; one tonsil is situated at the left side and the other is on the right. Tonsillitis is generally characterized by swelling, soreness in the throat, difficulty in swallowing and pain in tonsils. In most cases, it is a virus that leads to the infection; however, it is also possible to suffer from painful tonsils, due to a bacterial infection. Fortunately, it is not difficult to treat this condition, if it is detected in time. However, the methods of tonsillitis pain relief may vary, based on the cause, as well as the severity of the infection.
The tonsils produce white blood cells that can help fight off various diseases. Therefore, they are in the first line of defense, against the bacteria and the virus that enter the mouth. Because of this, the tonsils are also more vulnerable to infections. However, it has been seen that after puberty, the immune function of the tonsils declines, which is probably why this condition is not very common in teenagers and adults. In most cases, it is the common cold-causing virus that leads to a pain in tonsils and ear; however, at times, other virus and bacteria could trigger off the problem. There are several signs and symptoms that can be experienced due to tonsillitis. Given below are some of the most commonly seen symptoms:
- Fever
- Swelling and redness at the back of the throat
- Headaches
- Enlarged glands on the neck
- White or yellow patches on the tonsils
- Stiff neck
- Throaty or muffled voice
- Sore throat
- Stomach ache, (mainly in younger children)
- Painful tonsils when swallowing
- Bad breath
Many doctors prescribe antibiotics for the treatment of tonsillitis. However, it is also common for the doctors to perform a surgery for the removal of the tonsils, especially if the infection is chronic or keeps recurring. Most parents and older children usually have a lot of concerns about tonsil removal pain. However, there are ways to seek tonsil removal pain relief, which could involve medication as well as home remedies. Therefore, patients are strongly advised to set an appointment with a doctor beforehand, to discuss any concerns they may have with tonsil removal pain medication.
Tonsils Stones
Tonsil stones can be described as clusters of calcified material that accumulates in the crevices of the tonsils. These stones have been known to weigh anywhere between 300 mg and 42 grams. In most cases, the stones are formed from calcium, but could also contain other minerals such as ammonia, phosphorus, carbonate and magnesium. The exact causes of tonsil stones are still not known by most medical health care providers. However, these stones are formed when debris gets trapped in the nooks and crannies of the tonsils. Over a period of time, the debris sets and gets harder, thereby leading to stones. Some of the most common symptoms seen due to tonsils stones include:
- Halitosis or bad breath
- Pain in the ear
- Sore throat
- Swallowing difficulties
- Swelling in the tongue
- White debris
There is no special treatment for tonsil stones, especially in case of those stones that are asymptomatic. There are some people who try to get rid of the stones at home, by dislodging them with a swab or a pick. Antibiotics too can be used to get rid of the stones, but they cannot get rid of the factors that cause the problem, which is why the stones may recur. In case of the stones that are very large and painful, doctors may need to carry out a surgery for its removal.
answered by G R