The tonsils are lymphoid tissue, located on each side of the back of the throat. While not lymph nodes, the American Academy of Otolaryngology explains that they act as part of the lymph system, which filters bacteria and viruses. When they become infected by the bacteria or viruses, it causes tonsillitis, which is a common affliction for children and adults. It is important to pay attention to the various symptoms for early detection and treatment.
Pain
One of the first symptoms of tonsillitis is a sore throat. Throat pain usually lasts longer than two days and, according to the National Institutes of Health, it can extend to the ears and the jaw. The sore throat and ears can make the simple act of swallowing extremely painful. If tonsillitis is caused by the strep bacteria, that bacteria can cause stomach or abdominal pain. This is a symptom that occurs predominantly in children.
Swollen Tonsils
When looking at the tonsils, they will appear swollen and red. The Mayo Clinic reports that there may also be white spots on them. The tonsils may not be the only area of the body that is swollen, however. Lymph nodes and glands on the sides of the throat in the neck and jaw area can also be inflamed.
Voice Changes
Due to the swelling of the tonsils and surrounding tissues, the pharynx, which is between the voicebox and the tonsils, can also become inflamed. This inflammation can affect the voicebox by causing a change in voice tone, or a loss of voice altogether.
Fever
The American Association of Family Physicians reports that tonsilitis can also cause fever, chills and headache. This is due to the virus or bacteria that may be causing the tonsillitis.
