Tonsillitis - Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Which doctor should I consult for Tonsillitis?
A: An ENT specialist can be consulted for tonsillitis.
Q: Can Tonsillitis be cured without surgery?
A: Yes, it can be cured without surgery if it occurs infrequently. But in cases of tonsillitis or breathing problems, your doctor may recommend surgery to remove the tonsils.
Q: What do the Tonsils do?
A: Tonsils assist the body in its defence against incoming bacteria and viruses by helping the body form antibodies.
Q: Is tonsillitis contagious?
A: Yes, it is contagious. Germs can spread through direct contact or through the air. Practicing good hygiene is important.
Q: What is the difference between strep throat and tonsillitis?
A: Streptococcus bacteria produce strep throat, which causes fever and chronic soreness.
Tonsillitis is an inflammation of the tonsils that can be painful. It can be viral or bacterial.
The best way to detect the difference between tonsillitis and strep is to have a culture taken.
Q: What are the first signs of tonsillitis?
A: Tonsillitis can feel like a bad cold or flu. The tonsils at the back of your throat will be red and swollen.
Q: Is tonsillitis different from tonsil stones?
A: Tonsil stones, or tonsilloliths, are buildups of bacteria and debris within the nooks and crannies of your tonsils. This debris hardens into small, stone-like growths. This condition is different from tonsillitis, which occurs when the tonsils themselves become infected.
Q: What foods should be avoided with tonsillitis?
A:
- Dry food. Consuming dry foods may be difficult if you have tonsillitis
- Fried food. Fried food must be avoided if you have tonsillitis
- Junk food. Junk food is often fried or dry, both of which should be avoided if you have tonsillitis
- Spicy food
- Raw fruits & vegetable
- Carbonated drinks
Q: When should I be concerned about swollen tonsils?
A: When to see a doctor. If you have swollen tonsils that last for more than 1 or 2 days, see your doctor.
Q: Can tonsillitis heal naturally?
A: Many cases of tonsillitis resolve quickly. Tonsillitis caused by viruses typically resolves within 7 to 10 days after rest and plenty of fluids. Bacterial tonsillitis may take about a week to go away, though many people start feeling better a day or so after taking the antibiotics.
Q: What alternative medications are there for tonsillitis besides antibiotics?
A: There is no specific treatment for tonsillitis, but you can reduce the symptoms by using medications like ibuprofen or paracetamol for pain relief.
