What Causes Tonsillitis and How Is It Treated?
Aug 31, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Xu Gang
Introduction
Tonsillitis may be caused by infections such as group A beta-hemolytic streptococcus, influenza virus, or staphylococcus. It can also result from acute inflammation of adjacent organs. A decrease in immunity may also trigger tonsillitis. Generally, antibiotic treatment can be administered under a doctor's guidance. If frequent acute inflammation occurs or if the tonsils are excessively enlarged, surgical treatment may be considered.
Tonsillitis may be caused by infection, decreased immunity, or infections in adjacent organs, and can be treated with medications, surgery, or other approaches.
Clinically, tonsillitis is primarily caused by pathogens such as Group A beta-hemolytic streptococcus, influenza virus, and Staphylococcus. Acute inflammatory conditions affecting adjacent structures—such as rhinitis or acute pharyngitis—may also involve and inflame the tonsils. Additionally, prolonged exposure to cold, damp environments; excessive fatigue; constitutional weakness; or exposure to harmful gases—factors that compromise immune resistance—can predispose individuals to tonsillitis.
Following onset of tonsillitis, patients are generally advised by their physicians to undergo antibiotic therapy; commonly prescribed agents include cefaclor and amoxicillin. In cases of recurrent acute tonsillitis or marked tonsillar hypertrophy interfering with normal swallowing, breathing, or phonation, surgical intervention—primarily tonsillectomy—may be indicated.
