By Dr. Honey Gupta , Ear-Nose-Throat (ENT)
Tonsils are the two lymph nodes that are present on each side at the back of the throat which function as a defense mechanism in the body. When these become infected, the condition is medically termed as tonsillitis. Though it is a common childhood infection, it may affect people of any age where the symptoms include swollen tonsils, sore throat, and fever.
Causes-
Tonsils are considered the very first line of body’s defense against illness. They are responsible for producing white blood cells or WBC to help the body fight against infection. The tonsils combat the viruses and bacteria which enter the body through nostrils and mouth. But these nodes are also vulnerable to infections caused by these any unwanted invaders. Viruses like rhinovirus, parainfluenza virus, adenovirus, and enterovirus are known for leading to tonsillitis. In rare instances, tonsillitis is caused by the Epstein-Barr virus which, in turn, causes glandular fever.
When it comes to the bacteria causing tonsillitis, the most common of them is the Streptococcus pyogenes or Group A streptococcus, which are responsible for strep throat. Other strains of bacteria and strep may lead to tonsillitis.
And when the infection occurs, the affected person is likely to feel very ill, feverish and fatigued. It is important to consult an expert without any delay to stop the infection from spreading and causing further damage.
Risk factors associated with tonsillitis-
While discussing of the causes of tonsillitis, it becomes imperative to mention the risk factors of the disease which include the below.
Recurrent germs exposure: Young kids are always in close contact with their peers which make them vulnerable to a host of virus and bacteria that may cause tonsillitis.
Age factor: As already highlighted before, tonsillitis is commonly seen among kids but is rarely affects infants aged below 2 years. Tonsillitis stemming from bacterial infection is most common among children aged between age 5 and 15 while viral tonsillitis is seen among younger people.
What are the complications of tonsillitis?
Swelling, as well as inflammation of tonsils from ongoing or chronic tonsillitis, may lead to a number of complications. These include disruption of breathing during sleep, difficulty in breathing, obstructive sleep apnea, infection resulting in accumulation of pus behind tonsils and infections spreading deep into the surrounding tissues.
When left untreated, the child or the affected individual may have risks of rare health issues like rheumatic fever and post streptococcal glomerulonephritis. While rheumatic fever is an inflammatory disease affecting the heart and joints, the latter disorder affects the kidneys which pave the way for disruption of adequate waste removal from the body.
Hence it is recommended to consult your physician if any of the symptoms of the condition are noticed to avail proper treatment.
