About Acute Tonsillitis

As part of the body’s unique defense system, two tonsils at the back of the throat act to trap germs and viruses that might otherwise cause infection. Although the tonsils actively produce infection-fighting antibodies, they can also become infected. When the filtration system located within the tonsils becomes too overwhelmed with bacteria and viruses, them become inflamed. This condition is referred to as acute tonsillitis. The team at miVIP has innovative procedures that can help to improve your symptoms.

Tonsillitis can be found most often in children between the ages of 4 and 7. It is rarely found in those over 40 years old or under the age of 2.

Causes of Acute Tonsillitis

Tonsillitis is caused by bacterial and viral infections. The most common include:

• Adenoviruses
• Streptococcus
• Parainfluenza viruses
• Herpes Simplex virus
• Epstein-Barr virus

Many of these bacteria and viruses are airborne or can also be spread through direct contact.

Common Tonsillitis Symptoms

While tonsil swelling and inflammation are the key symptoms of tonsillitis, there are other identifiable symptoms, which include the following:

• Headache
• Ear Pain
• Loss of Appetite
• Red Tonsils
• Sore Throat
• Loss of Voice
• Bad Breath
• Fever or Chills

If any of these symptoms are persistent, it is important to see your physician right away.

Treating Acute Tonsillitis

Before you begin a treatment regimen for tonsillitis, it is extremely important to find out what is causing the problem. This will help to determine which treatment option will be the most effective. Your physician may swab your throat to obtain a sample. A simple lab test will then determine if the sample is positive for a bacterial infection. While the test will not detect the presence of viruses, it can be assumed that the infection is viral if the bacterial test comes up negative. If your infection is bacterial, you may be given an antibiotic treatment. Unfortunately, viral infections must run their course.

In severe cases, a tonsillectomy may be required to adequately treat the condition. This procedure involves tonsil removal in order to completely remove the affected tissue. This outpatient procedure generally lasts for 30 to 45 minutes, and is conducted under general anesthesia. Recovery time may last up to ten days. An ENT surgeon from miVIP can successfully complete this procedure.

Prognosis of Tonsillitis

The prognosis of acute tonsillitis is usually favorable. Whether you are on an antibiotic treatment, need a tonsillectomy or simply must treat your symptoms until the problem subsides, tonsillitis can be overcome with the proper treatment.

Call miVIP for More Information!

If you suffer from reoccurring acute tonsillitis or other ENT issues, call miVIP at 855-496-4847. Find out more information on how a professional ENT surgeon can improve your condition using our innovative equipment and techniques.