What are the Symptoms of Swollen Tonsils?
September 25, 2023 | by Sravani Pathakamuri | Posted in FAQ's
Swollen tonsils, a condition known as tonsillitis, can be caused by various factors, including viral or bacterial infections. Symptoms of swollen tonsils may include:
- Sore Throat: A persistent or severe sore throat is a common symptom, often accompanied by pain or discomfort.
- Swelling of the Tonsils: Enlarged tonsils that may appear red, inflamed, or swollen.
- Difficulty Swallowing: Pain or difficulty swallowing, especially solid foods or liquids.
- Pain or Earache: Pain or discomfort in the ears, often radiating from the throat.
- Fever: Elevated body temperature, often accompanied by chills or sweating.
- White or Yellow Patches: White or yellow patches or spots on the tonsils or at the back of the throat.
- Bad Breath: Foul or unpleasant breath due to the infection.
- Hoarseness or Changes in Voice: Changes in the voice or hoarseness due to inflammation of the throat.
- Headache: Headache or discomfort in the head or neck area.
- Fatigue or Weakness: Feeling tired or lacking energy due to the body’s immune response to the infection.
- Neck and Jaw Pain: Pain or tenderness in the neck or jaw area, especially when swallowing.
- Coughing: Dry or productive cough may be present, particularly if the infection extends to the upper respiratory tract.
- Swollen Lymph Nodes: Enlarged and tender lymph nodes in the neck or jaw due to the body’s immune response.
If you suspect you have swollen tonsils or tonsillitis, especially if accompanied by high fever, severe pain, or difficulty breathing, it’s important to seek medical attention. A healthcare professional, typically an ENT (ear, nose, and throat) specialist, can perform an examination and may recommend appropriate treatment, such as antibiotics for bacterial infections, pain relievers, rest, and plenty of fluids.