Signs You May Have Tonsillitis

Signs You May Have Tonsillitis

Are you concerned that your sore throat could actually be tonsillitis?tonsillitis

Every year bouts of nasty viruses infects countless people, causing common problems like sore throats. Initially, that sore throat might not be something too disconcerting, but our New Canaan and Norwalk, CT, serving the Westport, otolaryngologist, Dr. Andrew Parker, offers up some information on the signs that could be pointing to tonsillitis.

While anyone can develop tonsillitis, this condition that results in inflammation of the tonsils is most likely to infect school-age children. Some symptoms of tonsillitis include:

  • Inflamed, red tonsils
  • Sore throat
  • Problems swallowing
  • Patches on the tonsils (they may be white or yellow in color)
  • Swollen lymph nodes in the neck
  • Fever
  • Persistent and unexplained bad breath

Children who have tonsillitis might also have increased irritability, may not have an appetite or might even drool if it’s too painful to swallow.

When is it time to visit a doctor?

It isn’t always easy to know when it’s time to visit your New Canaan and Norwalk, CT, serving the Westport,  ENT doctor. Like most people, you may just wish to put it off until the last minute, but it’s a good idea to call our office and schedule an appointment for you or your child if:

  • You have a sore throat that persists for more than 2 days
  • If you have severe pain when swallowing
  • If you are extremely fatigued or feeling weak

It’s important to seek treatment immediately if you are having trouble breathing or if you are finding it nearly impossible to swallow, or if your child is drooling.

How is tonsillitis treated?

Regardless of whether a viral or bacterial infection is to blame, there are many at-home treatments you can employ to help manage your symptoms to help you feel better fast. Rest is always key when it comes to healing. You should also make sure you stay hydrated. Opt for broths and or even ice cream to help soothe your inflamed throat. To help reduce both pain and swelling you can also choose to gargle with salt water several times a day.

If our doctors determine that a bacterial infection is the cause of your tonsillitis then we will need to prescribe antibiotics. These antibiotics are necessary for fighting the infection and all instructions should be followed exactly, even when you start to feel better.

If you are concerned that your symptoms could be that of tonsillitis then it’s important that you give Parker Ear, Nose & Throat in New Canaan and Norwalk, CT, serving the Westport, a call today. The sooner you seek treatment the sooner you will find relief.