It is an inflammation of the tonsils caused by various microorganisms, but in most cases, it is streptococcus.
Undoubtedly, the disease is quite unpleasant and painful in itself, but the greatest danger to health may be due to complications after the appearance of purulent tonsillitis.
The most common complications include rheumatoid joint disease and heart disease, kidney disease with the development of kidney failure, meningitis (inflammation of the cerebral cortex), abscesses, and sepsis.
Because of the above, purulent tonsillitis is dangerous and needs professional treatment.
Most of the time, a sore throat develops when there is a failure of capillary blood circulation. Due to him, the problem begins with providing somebody with tissues of the necessary elements.
The maximum incidence occurs in spring and autumn, especially if there is a lot of rain and low temperatures at these times of the year.
An interesting fact was revealed that older people rarely get sick with purulent tonsillitis. In most cases, the disease is common in children by five and can rarely occur in people older than 35 years.
Causes of purulent tonsillitis
The main reason for the disease is infectious organisms, such as staph or streptococci.
Even though microorganisms are included in the normal pathogenic microflora, they can multiply rapidly and cause suppurative processes under the influence of certain factors.
The disease is triggered in the presence of the following factors:
- General hypothermia.
- The complication with other viral infections.
- A decrease in the body’s defenses.
- The consumption of tobacco.
- Damage to the tonsils.
- A high level of dust in the room or on the street.
Symptoms of purulent tonsillitis
The symptoms of purulent tonsillitis are generally:
- A sharp rise in body temperature, often up to 41 degrees.
- Severe pain in the throat
- Pain when swallowing (even when swallowing saliva).
- Inflammation and enlargement of the submandibular lymph nodes.
- Hyperemia of the tonsils.
- Swelling of the back of the throat, tongue.
- Plaque on the tonsils.
- Joint pain
- Presence of purulent foci on the tonsils.
- Poisoning symptoms with severe headache, poor appetite, weakness, and drowsiness.
Since the ear, throat, and nose are linked, other symptoms may appear regarding purulent tonsillitis.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis is based on symptoms and a physical examination of the throat.
In addition to directly inspecting the throat and tonsils, the doctor may perform a throat swab test if strep is suspected.
The throat swab is sent to a laboratory to culture and identifies the bacteria causing the symptoms.
The doctor may suspect the presence of glandular fever, caused by the Epstein-Barr virus, in an adolescent or young child with tonsillitis, especially if this is accompanied by some additional symptoms such as lethargy and tiredness, swollen glands in the neck, armpits, and groin, and the appearance of an enlarged spleen.
Treatment of purulent tonsillitis
It is essential to have complete rest if the patient is recovering from purulent tonsillitis, as it is critical to preventing various complications in other organs.
The foods in the daily diet of a patient with purulent tonsillitis should include many vitamins and should not contain irritating elements, such as spices, hot sauce, or acidic foods. The food should preferably be eaten pureed.
It is necessary to manipulate the throat locally; tablets and sprays with an antibacterial effect are recommended.
Self-treatment without consulting a doctor can cause irreparable damage.
The primary treatment for purulent tonsillitis should involve receiving antibacterial medications to reduce the risk of rheumatic fever.
In the uncomplicated form of the disease, drugs such as amoxicillin are often prescribed, and in severe cases, drugs such as penicillin are recommended.
The use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs that can eliminate pain is also recommended.
Local treatment involves treating the disease with various antiseptic agents, such as hydrogen peroxide and boric acid solution, among others.
The greatest danger of this disease is for children since they cannot stay in bed for a long time, and physical activity provokes the development of complications.
