Why Tonsillitis Peaks in Winter and How to Prevent It

Dr. Rohit Udaya Prasad, Lead & Senior Consultant – ENT & Cochlear Implant Surgery, Aster RV Hospital

Tonsillitis is an extremely common infection among individuals of all ages often characterized by acute pain or severe throat irritation. Their function at the back side of the human throat supports the body’s immune apparatus by representing a first level of protection against pathogens. However their continuous contact with infectious factors renders them easily prone to inflammatory responses leading to tonsillitis. It ranges from slight discomfort to severe pain, and it can quite adversely affect daily activities such as speaking, swallowing, or even sleeping.

What is Tonsillitis?

Tonsillitis is the inflammation of tonsils caused by infection or irritation. It often occurs during winter seasons since respiratory infections are more common at such times. Dry air and overcrowded indoor places easily make one fall victim to these. Low levels of immunity also make one prone to these. Some common allergens causing throat irritations are dust, and molds.

Causes of Tonsillitis

Tonsillitis is usually attributed to viral and bacterial infections though environmental irritants cause it in many cases as well. Most common causes

1. Viruses

2. Bacteria

3. Environmental Factors

Signs of Tonsillitis

The symptoms can range from mild to severe; they include;

·      Red, inflamed tonsils, with patches that might be white or yellow.

·      A sore throat and difficulty in swallowing.

·      Fever, pain in the body, and fatigue.

·      Swollen lymph nodes in the neck

·      Bad breath and dehydration due to severe cases

Tonsillitis Diagnosis

In diagnosing tonsillitis, healthcare providers use a clinical examination like-

·      Throat Swab Test: To test and examine the presence of a bacterial infection.

·      Blood Tests: For diagnosis in case of mononucleosis or other conditions. 

Treatment

The treatment options for tonsillitis usually depend on the cause involved. 

1. Viral Tonsillitis: Rest and hydration are encouraged. Pain relief with over the counter drugs. The symptoms are treated as an outpatient with home measures such as gargling saltwater.

2. Bacterial Tonsillitis

Treatment will be an oral antibiotic course to eradicate the infection.

3. Chronic or Recurrent Tonsillitis

Tonsillectomy; removal of the tonsils may be required, especially in a patient who suffers recurrently.

When to see a Specialist?

It’s best to visit an ENT specialist, especially when complications such as an abscess, difficulty breathing, or dehydration occur.

The ENT specialist can advise on customized treatment plans, alleviate the discomfort of the patient, allow for recovery and prevent tonsillitis attacks.

Early diagnosis and proper treatment is the right management of tonsillitis. In this regard, some preventive measures and care are as follows:

– Hygiene must be maintained through frequent hand washing to reduce the transferring of infections.

– Patients should avoid close contact with others who are showing the symptoms of respiratory infections.

– Proper diet and hydration must be taken to develop immunity.