How to treat swollen tonsils
Dec 20, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Lu Cheng
Introduction
Tonsillar swelling is usually caused by bacterial or viral infections and can be alleviated through dietary adjustments, physical therapy, medication, intravenous fluid therapy, surgical treatment, and other methods. If symptoms do not significantly improve during treatment or new symptoms develop, prompt medical attention is recommended. During the course of treatment, it is important to take medications as prescribed by the doctor—both in terms of timing and dosage—and to attend regular follow-up appointments.
Swollen tonsils are usually caused by bacterial or viral infections and can be relieved through dietary adjustments, physical therapy, medication, intravenous infusion, or surgical treatment. If symptoms do not significantly improve during treatment, or if new symptoms develop, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly. Specific details are as follows:
1. Dietary Adjustment
During treatment, avoid spicy, greasy, and irritating foods. It is advisable to eat more fresh fruits and vegetables and maintain a light diet, which helps enhance the body's immunity and promotes recovery from inflammation.
2. Physical Therapy
Microwave therapy may be used, applying microwave irradiation to coagulate proteins and tissues and remove necrotic tissue. Cryotherapy is another option, using low temperatures to destroy locally affected tonsil tissue and achieve therapeutic effects.
3. Medication
Based on the cause of tonsil swelling, appropriate antibiotics should be selected. For bacterial infections, antibiotics sensitive to the causative bacteria are typically prescribed, such as amoxicillin capsules, levofloxacin tablets, or clindamycin hydrochloride tablets. For viral infections, antiviral drugs are required, such as oseltamivir phosphate granules, valacyclovir hydrochloride tablets, or acyclovir tablets.
4. Intravenous Infusion
If oral medications do not lead to significant improvement, intravenous infusion under a doctor’s guidance may be considered. Examples include cefazolin sodium for injection, cefathiamidine for injection, or tinidazole and sodium chloride for injection.
5. Surgical Treatment
If swollen tonsils severely affect breathing or swallowing, surgical intervention such as tonsillectomy may be considered.
Throughout treatment, it is important to take medications as prescribed by the doctor and attend regular follow-up appointments. Additionally, ensure adequate sleep, avoid excessive fatigue, and abstain from smoking and alcohol consumption—these measures help boost immune function and reduce the occurrence of tonsillitis and tonsil enlargement.
