Tonsillitis in children

The defeat of the tonsils by inflammation is called tonsillitis. This disease occurs primarily in children of preschool age, can often get sick and adolescents. The frequency of occurrence of tonsillitis in children - several times a year.

The tonsils are necessary in order to protect the child's body from the penetration of germs. They produce antibodies for this purpose, but often exposed to infection and get inflamed.

The cause of tonsillitis

Tonsillitis can be caused by the following infections:

• Strep bacteria (the most common cause of the disease);
• Staphylococcal bacteria;
• Adenoviruses;
• Influenza viruses;
• Epstein-Barr virus;
• Enteroviruses;
• Herpes virus.

Symptoms of tonsillitis in children

At the beginning of the disease the child has a sore throat during swallowing or yawning, fever. The main symptoms of tonsillitis in children:

1. Increase and inflammation of the tonsils. This can be determined visually and by touch, tonsils change color. Enlarged tonsils risk that may block the airway;
2. On the tonsils appears plaque, in some cases - the sores;
3. Headache, difficulty swallowing, as a consequence, loss of appetite;
4. Pain in the ears, often loss of voice;
5. Chill, which turns into a feverish state;
6. Bad breath.

Possible complications of tonsillitis

Severe illness that can lead to the following complications:

• Kidney Glomerulonephritis;
• Middle ear infection (otitis);
• Chronic tonsillitis;
• Short-term cessation of breathing during sleep (sleep apnea);
• Rheumatism;
• Scarlet fever.

Treatment of tonsillitis in children

Chronic and acute tonsillitis in a mild form, is treated in an outpatient setting. Treatment a sick child in a hospital takes place only when the disease is accompanied by complications.

The standard program of treatment of tonsillitis in children usually include:

1. Isolation of a sick child;
2. Compliance with bed rest;
3. Organization of a sparing diet;
4. Systemic therapy using drugs with high activity against inflammatory agents;
5. Admission antihistamines;
6. Vitamin therapy and appointment of immunomodulators;
7. Gargling with antiseptic solutions or decoction of herbs;
8. Irrigation tonsils antibacterial or antiviral aerosols.

In the case where these methods of combating the disease are ineffective, and chronic intoxication leads to serious consequences for the health of the child, the only true option becomes the surgical removal of the tonsils.

Prevention of tonsillitis in children

• Hygienic. Oral cavity should always be kept clean, to prevent the occurrence of tooth decay and gum disease. It is necessary to teach a child to wash their hands before eating - is to reduce the probability of penetration of pathogenic bacteria in the body;
• Humidification. Cool and humid air makes breathing easier and prevents drying of the mucous membranes;
• Balanced diet. The diet should include foods rich in vitamins and trace elements;
• Hardening. It contributes to the overall strengthening of the body and enhance immunity.