Tonsils are the fleshy areas of tissue on the back sides of the throat. When the tonsils become infected or inflamed, tonsillitis occurs. There are two types of tonsillitis, bacterial and viral. Bacterial tonsillitis is caused by the bacteria Streptococcus pyogenes and viral tonsillitis is caused by the virus that causes the common cold. Tonsillitis generally clears up on its own in seven to 10 days but there are treatments to lessen the severity of symptoms.
Antibiotics
Antibiotics are prescribed to treat bacterial tonsillitis, the Mayo Clinic indicates. A doctor will typically prescribe penicillin to take for approximately 10 days. Although symptoms may begin to improve it is important to take the full prescription. This ensures that all the bacteria are killed and helps to avoid the immediate recurrence of the infection. A doctor can prescribe an alternative antibiotic if the patient is allergic to penicillin.
Pain Relievers
Patients with moderate to severe cases of tonsillitis may experience pain or a fever, which is common in children. A doctor may recommend taking a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug, commonly called an NSAID, for pain and fever. NSAIDs are generally non-habit forming and relatively safe for prolonged use. Asprin and ibuprofen are two commonly available NSAIDs that can be purchased at most pharmacies and grocery stores.
Gargling
Some patients experience a sore throat and in severe cases, pus may develop on the tonsils. In those instances, gargling with salt water is often helpful in reducing the irritation and removing the pus. Patients should add one teaspoon to eight ounces of warm water, gargle for approximately five seconds and spit out. Gargling can be repeated as often as needed until soreness dissipates.
Drinking Fluids
Keeping the throat moistened and staying hydrated is important while treating tonsillitis. Drinking eight to 10 8-oz. glasses of water is generally recommended to maintain adequate hydration levels. If a patient is taking an antibiotic or any type of pain medication, they should consider increasing their intake of water to 10 to 12 glasses. Avoiding caffeinated drinks is also important to prevent dehydration. The Mayo Clinic suggests drinking warm, caffeine-free tea or sucking on popsicles to relieve tonsillitis symptoms.
Rest
It is important to get adequate rest to help the body repair itself and fight off the tonsillitis infection. Additionally, tonsillitis sufferers should try to rest their voices as much as possible to prevent irritating the tonsils further.
