![\"\"](\"https:\/\/burlingtonent.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/iStock-823893962-compressed-768x512.jpg\")
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\nThe tonsils are a pair of oval-shaped tissues in the back of the throat. They protect the body from infection by trapping bacteria and germs, preventing them from entering the airways. In addition, they produce antibodies to fight infection. As the immune system\u2019s first line of defense, the tonsils come into frequent contact with germs, making them prone to infection themselves.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Viruses and bacteria, especially the Streptococcus bacterium (responsible for strep throat), are the most common causes of tonsillitis. Other causes include adenoviruses, influenza, Epstein-Barr virus, enteroviruses, and herpes simplex virus.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
What Are the Symptoms of a Pediatric Tonsil Infection?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Sore throat and swollen, inflamed tonsils that may appear red with a white or yellow coating are the most recognizable symptoms of tonsil infection. Other signs include blisters on the throat, swollen glands in the neck or jaw, difficulty swallowing, fever, headache, chills, fatigue, ear pain, and bad breath.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
How Are Tonsil Infections Treated? <\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Diagnosing a tonsil infection requires a physical examination and an in-depth exam of the throat. Your child is likely to be given a throat swab to test for the presence of strep, as well.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Home remedies are usually recommended for tonsil infections caused by a virus. Your child should get plenty of rest and stay hydrated with fluids. Warm broth or tea, and cold Popsicles, are particularly effective at soothing pain and discomfort.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Pain and fever can be controlled with over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen and acetaminophen (but avoid aspirin, which can be harmful in children). Throat lozenges or cough drops can be given to children over the age of four.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
When a tonsil infection is the result of strep throat or another bacterial infection, your child\u2019s doctor will prescribe antibiotics. Be sure to take the full course of treatment to prevent symptoms from recurring.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
When is Tonsil Surgery Used to Treat Tonsillitis?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Current guidelines from the Otolaryngology academy for tonsillectomy include:\u00a0 7 tonsil infections in 1 year, 5 infections per year for 2 years, or 3 infections per year for 3 years.\u00a0 These are guidelines and each case is evaluated individually.\u00a0 Chronic tonsil stones (debris in the tonsils) with sore throats, bad breath, and bad taste is another reason for tonsillectomy.\u00a0 Finally, tonsillectomy and adenoidectomy are commonly performed for children with enlarged tonsils causing snoring with obstruction at night or sleep-disordered breathing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n