What are the common symptoms of tonsillitis?

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Common Symptoms of Tonsillitis and Corresponding Measures

The common symptoms of tonsillitis include sore throat, difficulty in swallowing, fever, and enlarged tonsils. Seek medical attention promptly if severe symptoms such as fever above 38°C or dyspnea occur. Mild symptoms can be alleviated through appropriate home care and lifestyle adjustments.

1. Sore Throat and Difficulty in Swallowing
Sore throat is a typical manifestation of tonsillitis, especially with noticeable pain during swallowing. This is due to the tonsils being infected or stimulated by inflammation, affecting adjacent tissues. For mild pain, drink more warm water or gargle with antiseptic mouthwash, such as dilute salt water. Non-prescription analgesics like fenbufen or ibuprofen can also help relieve pain. However, if the pain persists for several days without improvement or makes it difficult to eat, seek medical attention promptly.

2. Fever and General Malaise
Caused by bacterial or viral infections, patients may experience fever (mostly low-grade, but bacterial infections can reach above 39°C), fatigue, and other symptoms. At this time, take appropriate fever reducers such as paracetamol and monitor body temperature. If the body temperature remains above 38.5°C, seek medical help promptly to rule out other serious illnesses.

3. Enlarged, Red, or Purulent Tonsils
Tonsils usually appear significantly enlarged and red, and may be accompanied by small white dots or yellow pus spots in severe cases, indicating worsening infection. Bacterial tonsillitis usually requires antibiotic treatment, such as amoxicillin or cephalosporins. If one or both tonsils are significantly enlarged, causing respiratory limitation or worsened nocturnal snoring, surgical treatment such as tonsillectomy may be necessary, which should be assessed by a specialist.

4. Swollen Lymph Nodes Under the Jaw or in the Neck
Tonsillitis is often accompanied by swollen lymph nodes adjacent to it, which can be felt as lumps under the jaw or in the neck. For this situation, hot compresses can be used as adjuvant therapy to relieve local discomfort. However, if the lymph nodes continue to swell, pain, or develop pus, imaging studies may be required to rule out other infections or lesions.

5. Bad Breath
Inflammation or pus formation caused by tonsillitis may lead to bad breath, which can be alleviated by enhancing oral hygiene, using fluoride toothpaste, and gargling. If the odor is severe and accompanied by persistent throat pus formation, adjust the treatment plan under medical guidance. If symptoms worsen or persist without improvement, seek medical attention promptly to identify the cause and receive professional treatment. Meanwhile, enhance immunity to prevent reinfection.