Inflamed tonsils causes. Inflammation of the tonsils can occur for such reasons. Catarrhal tonsillitis is the mildest form of inflammation of the palatine tonsils.

We are accustomed to consider only tonsils located in the pharynx as tonsils, but in fact there are much more tonsils - there are six of them. Two at the throat are the tonsils themselves, which, when inflamed, cause the development of a sore throat, or. Another pair is located at the entrance to the Eustachian tubes. Where the nasal cavity and pharynx connect, there is a solitary pharyngeal tonsil.

Under the tongue is another tonsil. All together they form the so-called pharyngeal ring - a kind of protective barrier, a trap for microorganisms. If the attack of microbes is too massive, the tonsils themselves become victims of their protective role - they become inflamed, giving the patient a lot of unpleasant minutes.

In order to know how to treat inflamed tonsils, you need to identify the causes that caused the disease. The most common cause of inflammation is the penetration of a bacterial infection into the body. It is the bacteria that provoke the most common and widely known disease of the tonsils -.

Most often, viruses and fungi act indirectly, weakening the body with a disease, and secondary bacterial infection of a patient with weak immunity leads to the appearance of foci of the disease located in the tonsils.

Most often and more pronounced, with a vivid picture, the palatine tonsils, or tonsils, suffer from infection. Their inflammation occurs in several forms, which are characterized by the following symptoms:

• A sharp, sometimes very significant rise in body temperature.
• Feverish state with pains in bones, joints.
• Severe pain at the site of inflammation.
• Swelling of the mucous membranes and the tonsils themselves.
• Weakness, lethargy, drowsiness.
• Headache.
• With the defeat of the tubal tonsils, hearing problems are possible.

Inflammation of the palatine, sublingual and pharyngeal tonsils may cause difficulty and pain when swallowing, eating or talking.

Factors contributing to the development of inflammation of the tonsils can be hypothermia, severe physical fatigue leading to a drop in immunity, the presence of a powerful source of infection in the body (abscesses, untreated carious teeth, sinusitis, and much more), stress - acute or often recurring, smoking, alcohol abuse drinks and drugs, medicines, being in a gassed or dusty room, hereditary predisposition to inflammatory lesions of the tonsils.

Medications and antibiotics

Since the main cause of the disease is bacteria, the best way to treat inflamed tonsils is to use antibiotics. However, these funds can also harm the body, especially with uncontrolled intake and independent choice of the drug.

Also, some people have very strong allergic reactions to antibiotics, which can be dangerous to human health or even life. Therefore, the best way out in case of a disease, especially a severe one, is to seek qualified medical help. The doctor will not only prescribe the right drugs and select the right treatment, but also conduct an examination, which will allow you to get an accurate diagnosis.

In addition to antibiotics, other medications are also used to treat inflamed tonsils. These are painkillers, which are necessary for increased pain, antipyretics, prescribed at high temperatures, anti-inflammatory drugs. Most doctors believe that it is not necessary to "knock down" the temperature to 38 or even to 38.5 degrees, since it means that the body's immunity is fighting the disease. Taking antipyretics can "turn off" the immune system, and this reduces the body's resistance.

The more drugs are taken at the same time, the higher the risk of any complications, so it is highly undesirable to treat yourself.

In addition to these drugs, the doctor may prescribe additional drugs that help improve the patient's health. These can be anti-allergic drugs, medicines for and, nose drops, since inflammation of the tonsils often occurs as concomitant lesions with colds.

Folk recipes

Traditional medicine has many ways and methods to treat inflamed tonsils. Among the methods used to treat the disease include taking a large amount of warm warming, softening and vitamin drinks inside. In oriental medicine, special technologies are often used - acupressure, acupuncture, treatment with local combined preparations based on local herbs and other components.

With inflammation of the tonsils in the pharynx, rinsing is often used. This is an effective method that contributes to the mechanical washing out of accumulated pus and microorganisms, and also improves the condition of tissues due to the action of the active components of the rinse solution.

Compresses promote faster resorption of inflammation. They are mainly used for non-purulent processes, since active heat helps to remove inflammation, but in the presence of pus, it can cause the spread of infection through an activated bloodstream. Basically, compresses are used for problems with the throat, inflammation of the tubal tonsils can be additionally treated with dry heat, making dressings like "rabbit ears", as with. Heat helps reduce inflammation more quickly, but may not be the main treatment.

Effective folk methods of treatment:

• The simplest recipe for a rinse is a salt solution, preferably sea salt, with the addition of soda. It actively washes the inflamed infected areas, disinfects and softens the mucous membranes. If there is a pronounced purulent process, a few drops of iodine tincture can be added to the solution - this will enhance the effect of rinsing. In order for the technique to be effective, the use of rinsing must be regular.
• Vodka compresses are most often made on the throat. Do not use pure alcohol - this will cause a burn. With very sensitive skin, the vodka compress should not come into contact with it - a cloth moistened with vodka or a layer of cotton wool is placed in a thin plastic bag and applied to the sore spot, warming from above.
• For young children, cottage cheese compresses or heating with boiled potatoes are often used. To do this, 1 - 2 potatoes are boiled in their skins, slightly kneaded, placed in a bag and used as a hot compress. This method is especially good, as potatoes retain heat for a very long time.
• With inflammation of the tonsils, traditional medicine recommends a plentiful warm vitamin drink. Drinking hot milk with honey and butter can be very helpful, as well as goat fat, which is good for severe inflammation, coughing, or a complication of bronchitis. Various vitamin drinks are also considered useful, for example, regular tea with honey and lemon, rosehip broth, raspberry tea, cranberry or lingonberry juice, and much more.
• The use of inhalations contributes to the fastest recovery and relieves discomfort well. The most common method is inhalation with a soda solution; in babies, ordinary alkaline mineral water can be used. Also for inhalation, decoctions of medicinal herbs are used, for example, eucalyptus, chamomile, mint, oregano, thyme and many others. Their essential oils help relieve pain, reduce inflammation and act as an antiseptic. When using medicinal plants for inhalation, the risk of allergic reactions must be taken into account.

If medical and conservative methods of treatment do not work, the only way to treat inflamed tonsils is surgery. But, if more recently, doctors without hesitation went to remove the tonsils, then today this is only a necessary measure. The fact is that these formations are our defenders, who take the first blow of the infection, not letting it in, where it can cause very great harm.

Only in the event that inflammation of the tonsils causes serious harm to the health of the body, and other methods have been ineffective, do doctors go to remove these formations. For this, various methods are used, the choice of which depends on which tonsils are affected. In some situations, this can only be done surgically. Others may use "freezing", loop husking, laser treatment, and other means.

The decision to use a complete removal of the tonsils is made individually for each patient, taking into account all the existing diseases, the potential risks and benefits of the operation.

Unfortunately, not in all cases, the removal of the tonsils guarantees the absence of diseases in the future. In addition, the body is deprived of its "guardians of infection", which also does not contribute to a decrease in the percentage of morbidity. So surgery in this case is a "double-edged sword".

How to treat sore tonsils during pregnancy

Pregnancy puts forward special requirements for the treatment of diseases. During gestation, aggressive drugs such as antibiotics and most chemical drugs cannot be used, therefore, only a doctor should decide how to treat inflamed tonsils in a woman “in position”.

The main thing in such a situation is not to harm the fetus, so methods and medicines are chosen that are as safe as possible for the unborn child. But it is impossible to do without treatment, since any inflammation in the mother's body can pose a threat to the health of the fetus. Therefore, the doctor chooses treatment methods depending on the degree of danger of the disease. If necessary, antibiotics may also be prescribed, but the treatment will be carried out under the close supervision of medical staff so that it does not harm the fetus.

You can learn more about how to treat tonsillitis from the video:

In most cases, with a mild course of the disease, the doctor is limited to conservative methods, trying to avoid the use of drugs and methods that can harm the unborn child.Since it is much easier to cure inflammation at the very beginning of the process, a timely visit to the hospital will help you deal with the problem faster and avoid dangerous ones.

Inflammatory processes on the tonsils occur because the organs are affected by an infection.

The palatine tonsils are most often inflamed.

In this case, a violent reaction occurs and a pain syndrome occurs.

Most often, these symptoms indicate tonsillitis.

Functions, structure and purpose of the tonsils in humans

The tonsils are organs of the immune system.

Their task is to protect the respiratory tract and the general protection of the body from the ingress of pathogenic bacteria and microbes.

They include lymphoid tissue, which is a source of lymphocytes (blood cells that fight various infections).

Them, thus it does not contribute to the retention of microbes in them.

Types of tonsils:

• palatine;
• tubal, located in the pharynx;
• pharyngeal, which is located at the arch of the pharynx and is called adenoids;
• lingual, located at the root of the tongue.

Some lymphocytes enter the general lymphatic system of a person, and some get rid of bacteria, fungi, viruses that enter the oral cavity. If the lymphoid tissue does not overcome the infection, then this contributes to the appearance of inflammation.

Causes, method of infection and factors contributing to inflammation of the tonsils

A person has six tonsils, which are located in the pharynx.

The palatine glands, which are also called tonsils, are most often affected by inflammation.

But inflammatory processes can also occur in other tissues of the pharynx: lingual, pharyngeal and tubal.

Bacteria, fungi and viruses are the main cause of inflammation of the tonsils. In conditions of reduced immunity or a cold, the tonsils may not be able to cope with their main function of protecting against infections. In this case, the tonsils become inflamed and purulent plugs form in them. After that, they are able to spread the infection deep into the respiratory organs.

Inflammatory processes of the tonsils can develop in close interaction with the patient. But the infection can also be transmitted from a person who has recently had a sore throat.

Bacteria are the main cause of inflammation. These include:

• staphylococci;
• streptococci;
• adenoviruses;
• herpes virus;
• haemophilus influenzae.

• hypothermia;
• lowered immunity;
• damage to one of the tonsils;
• climate and temperature changes;
• malnutrition;
• negative environmental factors;
• raw water;
• other diseases (for example, sinusitis,).

The main signs and symptoms of inflammation of the tonsils

Symptoms of inflammation vary depending on the form of the disease. The initial symptom is a sore throat, and over time, pain appears. The tonsils increase in size and turn red.

Symptoms begin to occur a couple of days or hours after they have been ingested by germs. Therefore, it is necessary to pay attention to emerging signs of inflammation:

• ache in the joints;
• headache;
• general malaise;
• chills;
• pain when swallowing;
• enlarged tonsils with redness and;
• the occurrence of a tumor under the jaw;
• enlarged lymph nodes;
• hoarse voice;
• ear pain.

Inflammatory processes of the tonsils can occur independently, and may be accompanied by other infectious diseases (diphtheria, measles, scarlet fever, etc.).

Usually people are faced with a sore throat, which can occur in various forms (catarrhal, follicular or lacunar). These forms follow each other if timely treatment has not been undertaken.

Catarrhal angina

This form of the disease is the mildest.

Its duration is several days.

The outer mucous membrane of the tonsils is susceptible to inflammation, this is accompanied by swelling and redness.

With this form of inflammation, the following symptoms appear:

• slight sore throat;
• temperature in the range of 37.2-37.5 °C;
• swelling and redness of the tonsils and the absence of plaque on them.

Follicular and lacunar tonsillitis

In these forms of the disease, inflammation captures both the follicles and the lacunae of the tonsils.

This is accompanied by the following symptoms:

• a sharp increase in temperature to 39 ° C;
• severe sore throat;
• pain when swallowing due to swelling;
• general malaise, loss of appetite, headache, joint pain;
• reddening of the tonsils and the presence of white plaque.

It is possible to distinguish follicular angina from lacunar only from a photograph of the pharynx. In the first case . In the second case, pus (plugs) is formed in the lacunae of the tonsils.

This infection can enter the general bloodstream, which is dangerous for a person, since this may cause an infection in other internal organs.

Symptoms of inflammatory processes differ depending on which type of tonsils is inflamed.

If the lingual tonsil, which is located at the root of the tongue, is inflamed, the patient will experience fever, sore throat, difficulty swallowing, and increased pain when protruding the tongue.

If the pharyngeal tonsil is inflamed, then there will be difficulty breathing through the nose, ear pain, purulent mucous discharge from the nose, and all this will be accompanied by fever.

Throat with angina

Inflammatory processes associated with the tonsils can turn into a chronic form of the disease, with an untimely visit to the doctor and failure to take measures to treat inflammation, from the first days of discomfort in the throat. Chronic tonsillitis can worsen several times a year. Such exacerbations can affect a person's performance and increase the risk of infection in the tissues of other organs (heart, joints, kidneys). Chronic tonsillitis is accompanied by frequent tonsillitis, pain in the lymph nodes, the appearance of purulent plugs, pain in the heart, fever, sore throat.

With timely treatment for 7-10 days, you can get rid of inflammation, and it can take several months to treat chronic tonsillitis. Therefore, tonsillitis should be treated as soon as the first signs and symptoms of the inflammatory process appear.

Diagnostics

To determine the form of inflammation, you need to contact a specialist, especially during pregnancy, so that later the child does not develop chronic pathologies.

Diagnosis includes examination of the tonsils. The specialist finds out the symptoms that bother the patient.

A general analysis of blood, urine, a swab of the oral cavity is also prescribed to determine the bacteria that caused the disease, in order to prescribe an antibiotic.

Diagnosis is needed to determine the method of treatment of the inflammatory process.

Basic treatments for inflamed tonsils

When the initial symptoms of inflammation occur, treatment should be started. The nature of the treatment depends on the location of the inflammatory process. Treatment with medication is prescribed by a specialist.

Local treatment

Local treatment includes gargling. The main means for rinsing are: Furacilin, Rivanol, Dioxidin, Chlorhexidine, Chlorophyllipt, Iodinol. They must be used according to the instructions, diluted with water.

To get rid of perspiration, sore throat, you can use antiseptic dragees, lozenges:

• Decatilene (adults should take 1 tablet every 2 hours);
• Pharyngosept (the norm for adults is 5 tablets per day, can be used during pregnancy);
• Strepsils (adults should take up to 5 lozenges per day for no more than 3 days). They are used in the formation of plaque on the surface of the mucous membrane, as this contributes to the mechanical washing out of pus.

Antiseptic sprays are also used:

• Tantum Verde;
• Bioparox;
• Cameton;
• Ingalipt;
• Yoks;
• Givalex.

Antipyretics:

• Panadol;
• Nurofen;
• Nimesil.

Use of antibiotics

If there is plaque or pus on the tonsils, it is most often suggested that antibiotics be used within 5-12 days. These drugs include: Amoxicillin, Amoxiclav. Analogues of these antibiotics are Amosin, Augmentin, Flemoklav.

Folk remedies

To get rid of the inflammatory process at home, you need to use folk methods.

Such treatment begins with the use of antiseptic agents for washing the tonsils.

They help eliminate plaque and prevent the spread of the virus.

Otherwise, the disease may become more severe.

The patient needs to use as much warm drink as possible, observe bed rest, and eat right.

For rinsing, use (one teaspoon per glass of water), warm water with the addition of iodine or vinegar (1 tablespoon of vinegar, 5 drops of iodine per glass of water). Decoctions of various herbs (for example, chamomile, sage, calendula, silver eucalyptus) relieve inflammation. But if these remedies do not help for a long time, but it gets worse, then you should stop such treatment and consult a doctor.

In order for purulent plugs in the throat to resolve, it is necessary to chew a piece of propolis every day. It has a tart-bitter taste.

Complications

The disease can become chronic.

Local complications include inflammation of the lymph nodes. If the inflammation of the tonsils is not treated, this can lead to the accumulation of pus between the soft tissues of the tonsils, the so-called abscess. It is able to cover part of the back palate, and this will make it difficult to breathe and swallow.

Some bacteria can further cause nephritis (inflammation of the kidneys), disorders in the liver, thyroid gland, skin, and joints. Common complications include rheumatism, myocarditis, sepsis, meningitis.

Causes of chronic tonsillitis

Chronic tonsillitis can develop as a complication after inflammation of the tonsils due to the fact that the patient tried to cure himself.

Others, having visited a doctor, do not follow his recommendations and stop taking antibiotics as soon as they feel better.

If the disease is undertreated, then it can become chronic.

Exacerbation of tonsillitis contribute to:

• sinusitis, caries;
• deviated nasal septum;
• tonsil injury;
• hypothermia;
• weak immunity.

Preventive measures

It is always very easy to get sick, as there are many microorganisms around a person. The infection tries to attack the body as soon as favorable conditions are formed.

Prevention of tonsillitis is:

• The use of measures to strengthen the body's defenses, that is, the general hardening of the body.
• Timely treatment of teeth, otitis, sinusitis.
• Vitamin intake and proper nutrition.
• Hand washing is the easiest way to prevent infections (including tonsillitis).
• Do not overcool and thereby cause a decrease in immunity.
• It is not recommended to share utensils with a person who is sneezing or sick.
• It is recommended to avoid close contact with infected people.
• Massage of the throat, directed from the jaw to the chest, is another preventive measure. It is useful before going outside in cool weather.

It is always necessary to take care of your health, take preventive measures. And at the first signs and symptoms of inflammation of the tonsils, it is imperative to consult a specialist and not neglect treatment.

Inflammation of the tonsils is a very common disease. It is worth eating cold ice cream, freezing in your legs or standing in transport next to a sneezing person, and a sore throat will not keep you waiting. If there is obvious inflammation and pain on the tonsils, how to treat it?

The tonsils are swollen - it hurts to swallow

The tonsils or tonsils are a human lymphoid organ. It is very important for the formation of immunity. In fact, the main task of this organ is to trap microbes and viruses that enter the body through the inhaled air. In the tonsils, lymphocytes are formed, some of them are released into the lymph flow, and the rest remain to protect the body. Microbes settle on the tonsils, so most often they are the cause of inflammation.

Most often, the palatine tonsils fight infection, they are called tonsils. And there are six tonsils in total.

It is usually the palatine tonsils that hurt and swell.

What are the signs of inflammation?

Depending on the form of the disease, the symptoms may vary.

However, the most common are:

• sore throat;
• temperature rise;
• swollen throat;
• redness of the tonsils;
• weakness;
• an increase in lymph nodes;
• headache;
• loss of appetite;
• perspiration;
• hoarse voice;
• cough.

There are several forms of acute inflammation:

• catarrhal;
• lacunar;
• follicular;
• phlegmous.

With a catarrhal form, there may be a slight temperature and mild pain in the throat. With follicular angina, the pain becomes acute, the temperature can rise to 39 ° C, foci of purulent plaque appear on the tonsils. With the lacunar form, pus is also formed in the lacunae of the tonsils. A phlegmous tonsillitis is a purulent inflammation of the perialmond tissue. At the same time, the temperature is very high, the pains are sharp, the lymph nodes, heart and joints also hurt, a severe headache worries, there may be a cough. That is, this form is the most difficult.

The tonsils hurt, it hurts to swallow - what are the reasons?

Why does a sore throat bother you? When infectious agents enter the mucous membrane, the tonsils neutralize them. If a person’s immunity is strong, then the problem is quickly solved, but if not, the palatine tonsils swell and hurt - they become inflamed.

The most common cause is microbes and viruses:

Factors of the inflammatory process can be chronic rhinitis, sinusitis, caries. That is, foci of infection that are located close to the tonsils.

In addition, cold air can be the cause if you inhale it through your mouth instead of your nose. It acts directly on the throat and can cause inflammation. Overstrain of the voice, for example, after a long singing, as well as mechanical impact, can also cause inflammation of the tonsils.

If the immune system is very weak, sore throats can occur frequently. And as a result, it transforms into chronic inflammation of the tonsils or tonsillitis. At the same time, exacerbations occur periodically.

With angina and chronic tonsillitis, toxins enter the bloodstream and are carried throughout the body. Of course, this is fraught with big problems. Possible complications in the form of nephritis, rheumatism, polyarthritis, sepsis. Therefore, it is necessary to treat sick tonsils as soon as possible. How to treat tonsils in the throat? There are medical and folk remedies.

How to treat inflamed tonsils?

To cure an infectious disease, it is necessary to remove the cause of the disease, as well as its symptoms. For treatment, both medicines and folk remedies are suitable.

Medical treatment

Therefore, various antibacterial drugs for gargling are most often prescribed:

• Chlorophyllipt;
• Hydrogen peroxide;
• Iodinol;
• Miramistin;
• Rivanol;
• Furacilin.

Furacilin must be diluted in water - 1 tablet per 100 ml of water. Hydrogen peroxide must be taken only one percent. As for the rest of the drugs, they must be used according to the instructions.

During gargling, the number of bacteria located on the tonsils decreases, their activity is suppressed. Rinse as often as possible.

In addition, antiseptic preparations are prescribed in the form of dragees, lozenges, lozenges.

These include:

These medicines need to be absorbed. They remove inflammation, perspiration and pain. The composition of these drugs usually includes menthol, eucalyptus oils, mint, thymol. They are active against many bacteria and viruses.

Aerosols for irrigation of the oral cavity are also very effective. You can use Tantum Verde, Bioparox, Hexaspray, Ingalipt and others.

These drugs kill the infection, relieve pain, swelling in the throat.

With severe purulent tonsillitis, antibiotics cannot be dispensed with. Although they have a lot of side effects, but only they can help cure this form of sore throat. Most often, Amoxicillin, Vilprafen, Amoxil are prescribed.

How to treat tonsils? It is best to use several tools. However, it also happens that you have to do an operation. Tonsils are usually removed for children, as sometimes they can be dangerous to the health of the child.

Folk remedies

In this case, traditional medicine will not be superfluous. If the tonsils are swollen, it hurts to swallow, I often use rinses. Suitable decoctions and infusions of herbs (chamomile, sage, linden, yarrow). In addition, you can rinse with propolis tincture, soda, diluted in warm water.

Here are some more effective ones:

• lemon juice with water - 1: 1;
• salt, soda, iodine and water - one glass of a teaspoon of salt and soda, and 5 drops of iodine should be dropped;
• horseradish juice with water - 1: 1;
• juice from the leaves of the mother and stepmother, diluted with onion juice and red wine in equal proportions.

If the throat hurts, the tonsils are enlarged, the following remedy helps very well. It is necessary to mix aloe juice with flower honey (1: 3) and lubricate the tonsils with this mixture. This procedure must be carried out within two weeks.

Another great remedy is inhalation. You can breathe the steam of a decoction or infusion of medicinal herbs, onion juice, mineral water. These procedures help to remove perspiration, cough, soften the throat.

You can also do compresses. Salt dressings are suitable - you need to tie a bandage soaked in salt water around your throat. In addition, a compress from cabbage (cabbage must be grated and kept on the neck for about two hours), from cottage cheese, potatoes (boiled potatoes must be mashed, add a couple of drops of iodine and a spoonful of olive or vegetable oil) also helps.

You can make compresses with essential oils such as eucalyptus or lavender. They enter the bloodstream and have a wonderful effect on the body. It is necessary to dilute the oil in water and moisten the gauze, then apply a compress on the throat, forehead, chest.

Bandages need to be changed frequently. Be careful: you should not be allergic to oils (do a test first), otherwise new ones will be connected to existing health problems.

If you want to recover faster, use different remedies. If you combine medications and traditional medicine, the disease will pass in a short time and will not cause complications. Therefore, do not neglect either one or the other. But it is better to consult a doctor first.

Related materials

Inflammation of the tonsils, the symptoms, the treatment of which is known to almost every person, remains the most common infectious disease. About 15% of the world's population suffer from chronic tonsillitis. Angina with inflammation of the tonsils is quite difficult: the body temperature rises, the pain syndrome is pronounced, sometimes the processes of breathing and swallowing are even disturbed. Especially often children suffer from the activity of lymphoid tissue. Few people did not experience doubts about the removal and treatment of adenoids, tubal palate. Let's try to understand the cause and determine the correct approach to the treatment of inflammation.

Structure and purpose

The pharynx is the connection between the oral cavity, nasal passages, ears, larynx and esophagus. In total, six tonsils are located along its length: two palatine and tubal, pharyngeal and reed tonsils. They are made up of lymphatic tissue that constantly produces lymphocytes and other cells to protect the immune system. Together, all the tonsils make up the pharyngeal "ring". It does not allow harmful bacteria to pass through the air that we breathe into the body.

The palatine tonsils are located on the right and left of the pharynx. They can be seen on their own in the mirror, mouth wide open. Most often, it is they who take the hit, which leads to painful sore throat. The tubal tonsils are located deeper: in the region of the swallowing hole next to the ear canals. They got this name because of the Eustachian tubes, which are located nearby. The junction of the oral cavity and nasopharynx is protected by the pharyngeal tonsil. And the closing link of the pharyngeal ring is the lingual tonsil, located at the base of the tongue on the back. The tonsils of a healthy person can easily cope with any infection, blocking its entry into the body.

Inflammation of the tonsils in adults and children primarily indicates a decrease in immunity. Lymphocytes and other cells were unable to delay the infection, and the disease began to develop. The site of the bacterial lesion becomes inflamed. And first of all, the tonsils react.

Inflammation of the tonsils in the throat: causes

Soreness of the tonsils is always caused by an infection. It enters the mouth and nose in various ways. Most often, the disease develops according to the following scenarios:

1. Exposure to pathogenic microorganisms: streptococci, pneumococci and other similar bacteria, followed by infection of the whole organism.
2. Hypothermia in combination with weakness of the immune system with the further development of tonsillitis.
3. Infection from a patient with an infection that provokes inflammation of the tonsils. Symptoms and treatment usually coincide with the picture at the source.
4. The development of the disease due to dental caries, inflammation of the gums, constant runny nose.

By nature, viral, bacterial, fungal or herpetic origin are distinguished.

Catarrhal tonsillitis is the mildest form of inflammation of the palatine tonsils.

The defeat of the surface layer of the tonsils indicates the occurrence of catarrhal tonsillitis, the causative agent of which is most often group A streptococcus. This is the initial stage of the inflammatory process, which can turn into the form of lacunar, follicular or phlegmonous tonsillitis. Adults tolerate the disease quite easily, which cannot be said about children. It is worth paying attention to the fact that catarrhal angina with a serous coating is the main symptom of scarlet fever.

The main symptoms of damage to the outer shell of the tonsils include:

• a sharp sore throat that interferes with normal swallowing;
• subfebrile temperature, sometimes fever up to 40 degrees (especially in children under 3 years old);
• intoxication of the body;
• redness of the tonsils, their swelling, lack of plaque (with diphtheria and scarlet fever, serous plaque);
• enlarged lymph nodes under the jaw;
• general weakness, soreness in muscles and joints;
• heat in the throat.

Inflammation of the tonsils in a child with catarrhal angina is accompanied by severe pain in the throat and leads to rapid loss of fluid. The general condition is weak and requires a sparing daily routine. It also happens that children tolerate angina easily. Adults do not experience severe ailments and quickly restore health.

Treatment of catarrhal angina

Even a mild inflammation of the tonsils in a child is often accompanied by a serious condition: high fever, weakness, sharp pain in the throat. When the first symptoms are detected, it is imperative to call a doctor, because tonsillitis is a concomitant symptom of many infectious diseases (diphtheria, scarlet fever). After examining a doctor, the best tactic will be strict adherence to all prescriptions in order to eliminate inflammation of the tonsils, symptoms. Treatment in a child is usually based on penicillin antibiotics, bed rest and vitamin therapy. Additionally, you can use rinses from decoctions of chamomile, celandine, and other medicinal herbs. It is necessary to ensure that the baby consumes a sufficient amount of warm liquid.

Treatment in adults is carried out depending on the general state of health and the clinical picture. But for a faster and more effective recovery, antibiotics are prescribed. Various sprays, antibacterial plates for resorption, rinsing relieve inflammation. In order to prevent the development of complications, it is recommended to observe until the body is fully restored.

Severe forms of damage to the palatine tonsils

With poor treatment of superficial inflammation, the disease progresses to deeper parts of the tonsils: lacunae. A white coating or even individual purulent follicles is formed. Angina becomes severe, requiring high-quality treatment. There are lacunar and follicular types of the disease. They differ in characteristic features, and sometimes occur on different sides of the pharynx at the same time.

Purulent inflammation of the tonsils causes rapid reproduction and vital activity of cocci. The disease is accompanied by:

• dry mouth and constant thirst;
• cough, sore throat;
• severe pain that radiates to the ear when swallowing;
• the formation of follicles (yellow-dirty "seeds") with pus inside;
• general weakness, high fever;
• constipation in adults, vomiting or diarrhea in children.

The condition is dangerous complications for the heart and kidneys. That is why it is extremely important to be treated correctly and not to neglect the regimen. Lacunar tonsillitis is an inflammation of the tonsils, the symptoms, the treatment of which is very similar to the follicular type of the disease. A distinctive feature is the formation of a white coating and a sharp sore throat that occurs suddenly. Even during the day, a person may not feel discomfort, and in the evening there will be all the signs of a sore throat. It is not uncommon for a follicular type to develop on one of the palatine tonsils, and a lacunar type on the other.

Methods of treatment of follicular and lacunar tonsillitis

Both for an adult and for a child, purulent inflammation of the tonsils is very dangerous. Treatment should be carried out strictly under the supervision of a physician. There are two methods: medical and surgical. Of course, the main therapy can be supported by folk remedies to reduce inflammation of the tonsils, symptoms. What antibiotic treatment is carried out? Usually, the use of a wide range of medicines is envisaged: penicillin series, Erythromycin, Sumamed. In the case of a viral infection, antiviral drugs are used. Prescriptions should be carried out only by a doctor, taking into account the nature of the course of the disease and the individual characteristics of the body. In addition to antibiotics, prescribe:

• follicular washing with antiseptic solutions;
• suction of pus with a vacuum;
• local injections;
• treatment of the tonsils with an oil solution that promotes healing;
• physiotherapy;
• vitamins and immunostimulants.

It is necessary to pay attention to children's inflammation of the tonsils. Symptoms, treatment Komarovsky distinguishes from the adult course of the disease. According to a well-known pediatrician, the use of antibiotics is a mandatory requirement, otherwise tonsillitis cannot be cured. In addition, most rheumatic diseases and heart defects develop precisely because of the activity of cocci in angina. Penicillin series are considered the safest and are recommended even for newborns. In addition, it is necessary to provide the child with plenty of warm drink and food in the form of soft purees and cereals.

Phlegmonous inflammation of the tonsils: symptoms, treatment, photo

Phlegmonous tonsillitis - or purulent acute inflammation of the tissue near the tonsils - is a frequent complication of tonsillitis. It usually occurs 1-2 days after inflammation of the palatine tonsils. Phlegmonous It rarely develops on both palatine tonsils. It is characterized by acute pain when swallowing, high fever, weakness, increased salivation. The affected tonsil increases in size and shifts to the center of the larynx with a downward pull.

Delayed treatment can provoke the occurrence of an abscess, which is a confirmation of the diagnosis - "phlegmonous inflammation of the tonsils." Symptoms, antibiotic treatment is similar to the previous case. The main rule: you need to start taking medication as soon as possible. The doctor will prescribe antibiotics (penicillin series, Erythromycin, Sumamed), as well as anti-inflammatory drugs, immunostimulants. In the first days of treatment, the patient must comply with bed rest. When an abscess forms, it is opened surgically. Then they are washed, if necessary, the palatine tonsils are removed in order to avoid complicated conditions.

Inflammation of the pharyngeal tonsil

The nasopharyngeal tonsil, popularly referred to as the adenoids, is the first line of defense for nasal breathing. At the slightest sign of the disease, they increase in size. If diseases occur frequently, with an interval of less than one week, the amygdala does not have time to recover and chronic inflammation develops. Most often, adenoids increase in childhood, because they play a major role in protecting the body from infections. After 13-15 years, they decrease in size and practically do not become inflamed anymore.

It provokes the growth of a frequent runny nose. Inflammation should be suspected if signs are present:

• prolonged runny nose, which is difficult to treat;
• difficult nasal breathing and no runny nose;
• frequent mouth breathing, especially at night;
• colds, the interval between which is only 1-2 weeks.

They provoke inflammation of the adenoids and infectious diseases. For example, scarlet fever, measles, whooping cough, influenza. Often, parents are not even aware of problems with the pharyngeal tonsil, which indicates poor awareness of the signs of their enlargement and growth. A chronic process can lead to complications from the heart, kidneys, and musculoskeletal system. Breathing is disturbed, numerous tissue growths sometimes even lead to defects in the upper jaw.

Treatment of adenoiditis

Success in the fight against an inflamed pharyngeal tonsil depends on many factors: the approach to treatment, the qualifications and experience of the doctor, as well as the lack of haste. It should also be taken into account that with any cold, the adenoids increase. And this does not always indicate the development of adenoiditis. Often, after recovery, they return to normal. Another thing is when, in a hurry, the infection is not cured, and a weakened child picks it up again. The tonsil does not have time to recover and becomes inflamed again, which provokes growth.

There are two approaches to the treatment of adenoids: conservative and surgical. First of all, it is recommended to try all possible methods of drug exposure:

• washing the nose with saline, decoctions of herbs and special preparations;
• use of anti-inflammatory drops;
• general immunotherapy;
• physiotherapy.

If, after a long and stubborn struggle, the adenoids do not decrease in size, but only grow, most likely, you will have to resort to surgical removal. It is a mistake to think that after this the child will stop getting sick at all. Yes, this is a huge source of infection. But it poses a threat only with significant growth and serious violations of nasal breathing. If there is no pharyngeal tonsil, the infection will spread through the body faster and find a “loophole” for its comfortable existence. Adenoiditis will be replaced by tonsillitis or otitis media.

It should be remembered that the removal of adenoids is not a solution to the problem of weakened immunity and frequent colds. This is an extreme measure, which is justified to take only with a significant increase in the amygdala and the absence of the effect of conservative treatment. Removal is performed by an ENT surgeon using a special loop under local anesthesia. A more modern method is endoscopy, which requires general anesthesia and allows you to completely get rid of the vegetative growths of the adenoids and avoid relapses.

Inflammation of the tonsils: symptoms, treatment of lesions of the lingual lymphoid tissue

The lingual tonsil is located on the back of the tongue from the back. Its tissue becomes inflamed extremely rarely. If the lesions still begin, then usually against the background of tonsillitis of a catarrhal, follicular or phlegmonous nature. Acute inflammation of the tonsils of the palate or pharynx indicates an extensive localization of the infection, which also joins the tongue. The clinical picture in this case is characterized by pain during the movement of the tongue and its swelling, significant difficulties in chewing and swallowing, speech impairment. The remaining symptoms coincide with the signs describing inflammation of the tonsils. The temperature is subfebrile, can rise to 39-40 degrees.

The approach to treatment is based on the use of antibiotics, bed rest and restorative drugs. The lack of effect of medications is due to individual resistance to the action of drugs or the development of a sublingual abscess. In order to avoid complications, inflammation of the lingual tonsil should be treated by a qualified specialist - ENT.

Damage to tubal tonsils

Tubal lymphoid tissue is located near the Eustachian tube on both sides of the jaw. Inflammation of these tonsils is often attributed to ear diseases, since the pain occurs in this localization. The following signs distinguish the defeat of tubal formations from otitis media:

• the primary source of pain is the throat, after which there are unpleasant sensations in one ear or in two at once;
• mucous or purulent discharge flows down the back wall of the pharynx;
• the lymph nodes under the jaw are enlarged, and the parotid ones do not increase at all or react slightly to the infection;
• there is intoxication of the body.

As with inflammation of other tonsils, the disease is more severe in children than in adults. The condition is accompanied by high fever, often there is a cough, convulsions, vomiting. The approach to alleviating the patient's condition is based on the same principles that are used in order to eliminate the infectious inflammation of the tonsils. Treatment is based on taking a course of general antibiotics or antiviral drugs (depending on the pathogen). Additionally, it is recommended to provide the baby with a warm drink, soft and liquid food, as well as good rest. Taking immunostimulants and vitamins will only improve the condition and speed up recovery.

Inflammation of the tonsils is the most common disease of the ENT organs, especially in childhood. This can be explained by the function that nature endowed them with. Forming a kind of pharyngeal ring, lymphoid tissue produces antibodies and lymphocytes that actively fight any infection that enters the body. A healthy person with strong immunity has practically no problems with tonsils - they do their job perfectly and have time to recover.

But when the body is weakened, which is facilitated by prolonged hypothermia, stress, poor sleep and nutrition, strong protection is destroyed, and the tonsils do not cope with their task. Inflammation develops. Only a correct understanding of the essence of the problem will help to avoid problems with swelling and proliferation of lymphoid formations. Remember that it is not the tonsils that are to blame, but the weakened state of the body. The first step in treating an adult or a child should be a visit to an immunologist and increased attention to health.

Tonsils are small formations of lymphoid tissue that are located at the entrance to the respiratory tract. They belong to the immune system, they produce immune cells - lymphocytes, macrophages, plasma cells - that destroy the invader bacteria.

They got their name from the shape - they look like an almond, and are almost the same in size. But in an inflamed state, the tonsils can greatly increase in size.

Important! Their main function is to trap viruses and bacteria that are inhaled in order to prevent infection of the respiratory tract - trachea, bronchi, lungs. Therefore, inflammation of the tonsils is much more common than bronchitis or pneumonia.

The tonsils are porous, inside them there are wide pores - lacunae. Bacteria from the inhaled air enter here and are recognized by the immune system. Weakened by frequent inflammations, the tonsils cannot cleanse themselves, so purulent plugs accumulate in the lacunae. They consist of pus, dead cells, bacteria and viruses, their metabolic products. These plugs are dangerous because:

• cause permanent intoxication of the body;
• reduce the functionality of the tonsils;
• are a habitat for bacteria;
• cause bad breath;
• with a slight increase in the load on the tonsils cause inflammation.

What causes inflammation of the tonsils:

• streptococci;
• staphylococci;
• pneumococci;
• mushrooms Candida;
• coli;
• chlamydia;
• anaerobic bacteria;
• chronic sinusitis, in which bacteria from the sinuses enter the tonsils;
• caries, especially "located" on the back teeth, near the pharynx;
• various viruses.

You can “pick up” a sore throat by contact with a carrier of the infection by drinking from a cup of the patient. Against the background of reduced immunity, chronic infections can also “move” to the tonsils.

Symptoms:

1. Pain - constant or when swallowing, perspiration (in the initial stages, it can be described as "pulling in the throat").
2. Difficulty swallowing saliva.
3. Increased secretion of viscous saliva.
4. Temperature increase (from 37.7 to 39).
5. Pain when moving the tongue.
6. Difficult speech.
7. Sharp or aching pain in the ears, a feeling of congestion.
8. Discharge from the nose.
9. Body aches, aching pain in muscles and joints.
10. Enlarged submandibular lymph nodes.

On examination, redness and swelling of the mucosa, swelling of the tonsils, wide open gaps or purulent formations are noticeable. Often the patient loses his voice - due to severe swelling.

Important! With angina, there is no sneezing, as with influenza or SARS, there is rarely a cough - only if the infection has “leaked” into the throat and caused tracheitis or pharyngitis.

Types of inflammation of the tonsils

The disease is acute and chronic. An untreated acute infection passes into the chronic stage. Let's consider both groups of diseases in more detail.

Acute inflammation of the tonsils, or acute tonsillitis

Occurs rapidly, with a strong infection. Depending on the type of pathogen and the nature of the infection, there are several types:

1. Catarrhal angina- the most common and mild form of the disease. The infection is present only in the tonsils, the pharyngeal wall practically does not change color. Symptoms: sore throat, which is especially strong when swallowing (it is not even felt at rest), weakness and body aches, slight fever, general intoxication. With proper treatment, catarrhal angina can be cured in a few days. Enough local application of antibiotics (rinsing, irrigation).
2. Lacunar is a more complex form. The temperature rises to 39-40, the patient refuses food, complains of pain in the limbs and lower back. Sore throat radiates to the ear, possibly hearing loss. On the lacunae, white accumulations of pus are noticeable, soon covering the entire surface of the tonsils. Purulent plaque is easily cleaned off, but quickly grows again.
3. At follicular purulent accumulations-follicles appear through the mucous membrane of the tonsils, but they do not come to the surface. The spleen is enlarged, there is often pain in the abdomen, vomiting, diarrhea. The illness lasts 5 to 7 days.

   

4. fibrinous often joins the lacunar. A yellow-white film forms on the mucous membrane. Dangerous severe intoxication, penetration of infection into the brain.
5. Phlegmonous- rare and most dangerous, with it the destruction of the tonsils occurs. You can recognize it by a specific smell from the mouth. Severe pain is aggravated by the inability to swallow: even liquid food flows out through the nose. Urgent antibiotics are needed to prevent the formation of a peritonsillar abscess.

   

6. herpetic angina is caused by a virus, accompanied by a blistering rash on the back of the tongue and throat. Often associated with gastrointestinal symptoms: vomiting and abdominal pain.
7. Ulcerative necrotic often found in the elderly. Its causative agent is a spindle-shaped stick, which is present in the bacflora of every person. With a decrease in immunity, it is activated. The causes can be cardiovascular diseases, chronic infections of other organs. Symptoms: no fever and weakness, instead of a sore throat, there is a sensation of a foreign body. When plaque is removed, a bleeding ulcer opens.

Chronic tonsillitis

It develops as a consequence of acute - with incomplete treatment, as well as with the accumulation of adverse factors: weakened immunity, insufficient oral hygiene, existing infections.

Important! Approximately 15% of the world's population suffer from chronic tonsillitis. Often its causes are sinusitis, caries, chronic and undertreated infections, including the genitourinary system.

It is characterized by:

1. Loose tonsils with gaping gaps or plugs in them, the presence of plaque.
2. Permanent increase in submandibular lymph nodes.
3. Smell from the mouth.
4. Subfebrile temperature.
5. Increased fatigue.

Exacerbations occur 2-3 times a year, have the form of a mild cold or severe sore throat, which are complicated by disorders of the gastrointestinal tract, kidneys and urinary system, nervous system. Pus accumulates in the tonsils, over time they lose their protective function.

Chronic tonsillitis is dangerous because it often causes complications:

Treatment of inflammation of the tonsils

Acute inflammations of a viral and bacterial nature are treated differently. In the case of a viral infection, it is necessary to create conditions for the immune system to cope with the pathogen on its own. For this you need:

1. Provide the patient with sufficient rest - bed rest, a minimum of physical activity, good sleep.
2. Plentiful drink, especially in the first hours of the disease. In addition to herbal anti-inflammatory teas, you need to drink plenty of warm water - it will help to quickly flush out the toxins produced by viral cells. You need to drink at least 3 liters of fluid per day.
3. To more effectively rid the body of dead viral cells and their metabolic products, sorbents are used ( Sorbex, Maalox, Sorbolut). You need to drink them two hours before or two hours after taking other drugs.
4. Antiviral and immunostimulating drugs ( IRS-19, Broncho-munal, Levamisole) will help to quickly restore the body's defenses.
5. Gargle every one and a half to two hours with a weak salt solution (1/2 tsp per glass of warm water), decoctions of herbs ( calendula, chamomile, eucalyptus) 7-10 days. Pharmaceutical products based on antibiotics in this case are ineffective.

Bacterial inflammation of the tonsils begins more slowly, it is characterized by: severe sore throat, often one-sided, the presence of white plugs. In this case, antibiotics are needed - otherwise the inflammation will move deep into the respiratory tract.

Video - Angina: signs, symptoms, treatment

How to treat bacterial sore throat

• Rinses based on antimicrobial pharmaceutical preparations ( Givalex, Angilex, Chlorophyllipt, Furacilin, Miramistin etc. - a teaspoon of the drug in a glass of warm boiled water), herbs and fees with antibacterial properties ( Elekasol). You need to gargle 4-5 times a day. After rinsing, refrain from eating and drinking for about an hour. Rinsing should be continued even after the symptoms disappear. The course is at least 10 days.
• Irrigation of the mucous throat with antibiotic sprays (Ingalipt, Hexaspray, Bioparox, Tantum Verde) 3-4 times a day, at regular intervals. After this, do not eat or drink for an hour and a half. Sprays are used for the first 5 days of treatment. Do not use the spray more than 4 times a day, so as not to cause a spasm of the larynx.
• Soothing and analgesic throat lozenges with antimicrobial ingredients.

To alleviate inflammation in the throat, a remedy based on herbal dry extract and essential oil Sage lozenges from Natur Product has proven itself well. Sage lozenges from Natur Product is a combined preparation containing a complex of biologically active substances (1). It has anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial and expectorant effects, and also has astringent properties (1). Sage lozenges by Natur The product is herbal with few side effects(1,2). Sage lozenges by Natur The product is produced in Europe according to international production quality standards (1).

THERE ARE CONTRAINDICATIONS. BEFORE USE, IT IS NECESSARY TO CONSULT WITH A SPECIALIST

(1) Instructions for medical use of the medicinal product Sage lozenges
(2) Allergic reactions - according to the instructions for medical use

• Antibiotics: Penicillin, Ampicillin, their derivatives are Amoxicillin, Amoxiclav. If the patient is allergic to these substances, sulfonamides are used - Sulfalen, Biseptol, Norsulfazol; cephalosporins - Cefodox, Cefix, Ceftriaxone; macrolides - Azithromycin, Erythromycin, Macropen. The course of antibiotic treatment is at least 5 days. If necessary, the course of treatment is extended up to 7-10 days. In severe angina, the drug is prescribed intramuscularly. Before taking this group of drugs, you should consult your doctor. An incorrectly chosen antibiotic leads to the formation of resistance of the pathogen to treatment and the development of chronic inflammation of the tonsils.
• Antihistamines can help relieve swelling and make breathing easier: Loratadine, Cetrin, Suprastin- 1 tablet per day for 5 days.
• Antipyretics and painkillers - Paracetamol, Nimesil, Ibuprofen(the latter only in patients older than 12 years), 1-2 times a day, depending on the condition.

Important! In case of acute inflammation, you can not drink hot, do compresses and warm up the whole body: this will lead to the spread of infection throughout the body and systemic infection.

Video - Treatment of angina at home with folk remedies

Treatment of chronic tonsillitis

Conservative treatment gives a positive effect in 75% of cases. But it takes months and even years. Treatment consists of several stages:

1. Cleaning lacunae from pus:

1. Washing the tonsils in the ENT room is much more effective than ordinary rinsing: the liquid penetrates deep into the lacunae, washing out pus and pathogens from there. Solutions used for rinsing Furacilina, Penicillin, Albucid. Washing is carried out in courses of 10-15 procedures, twice a year.
2. Vacuum therapy is an alternative to tonsillectomy. The procedure consists of two stages: first, pus is sucked out of the lacunae, then they are washed with an antiseptic. A course of 15 procedures can save even those tonsils that were recommended for removal. The procedure can be used for children and pregnant women, when other methods are not always possible and safe. According to the results of studies, this method of treatment has shown effectiveness in 90% of cases.

Important! Conservative treatment should be under medical supervision. Any amateur activity of the patient and his relatives - for example, squeezing out purulent plugs with a false one or using pure lemon juice for rinsing can lead to serious consequences: penetration of the infection deep into and burns of the mucous membrane.

2.Antibacterial therapy:

1. Antibiotic therapy. For complex treatment, a combination of topical application is used (irrigation and washing of lacunae with antibacterial solutions, the same drugs are used as for the treatment of acute inflammation) and internal administration (orally, in the form of injections or infusions, usually antibiotics of the macrolide group - Macropen, azithromycin and cephalosporins – Ceftriaxone, Cefodox). A more accurate selection of antibiotics is carried out by the doctor based on the results of a smear from the mucous membrane of the throat. Sometimes antibiotics are injected directly into the tonsils. To reduce pain, the antibiotic is used together with novocaine. The course lasts from 5 to 10 days at the discretion of the doctor.
2. Oral hygiene - treatment of caries, brushing teeth, treatment of gum disease.

3. Formation of stable immunity:

1. Physiotherapy procedures start the process of tissue repair and natural cleaning of the tonsils, improve blood circulation. Apply UV irradiation of the tonsils, UHF on the submandibular lymph nodes. Physiotherapy is carried out in a course of 10 days at least twice a year.
2. Immunotherapy. Supporting and strengthening the immune system will help the body fight bacteria on its own and recover faster. Often used Imudon, IRS-19. The dosage is selected based on the age of the patient.

Surgical treatment is indicated in rare cases - when the tissue of the tonsils is partially destroyed, there are serious complications for the whole organism.

Video - How to treat tonsillitis with folk remedies

Preventive measures

It is impossible to completely protect yourself from infections. But it is possible to create conditions under which the tonsils will provide maximum resistance to the invasion of bacteria. For this you need:

1. Wash your hands regularly.
2. Keep your mouth clean and healthy.
3. Support the immune system (vitamin intake, proper nutrition, sports and hardening).
4. Do not drink too cold or hot drinks, especially before going outside in cold weather.
5. From time to time, do a preventive massage - just tilt your head back and make a few strokes from the jaw to the chest. This method is especially effective before going outside in the cold.
6. Avoid hypothermia, especially in the neck, head and legs.