The left tonsil is slightly painful, and it feels uncomfortable when swallowing saliva. What should I do?

Mild pain in the left tonsil and discomfort when swallowing may indicate the early stages of tonsillitis. It is often caused by bacterial or viral infections, but may also be related to excessive voice use, fatigue, decreased immunity, and other factors.

It is recommended to rest adequately, drink plenty of water, maintain good oral hygiene, and gargle with warm salt water to help relieve pain and keep the mouth clean. Avoid consuming spicy or irritating foods to reduce irritation to the tonsils.

If symptoms persist or worsen, such as fever, increased throat pain, or swollen tonsils, seek medical attention promptly. The doctor may perform tests such as a complete blood count to determine the cause.

If a bacterial infection is present, antibiotic treatment may be required, such as penicillin or cephalosporin medications. If the cause is viral, symptomatic treatment is typically recommended, such as using traditional Chinese medicine preparations for clearing heat and detoxifying.

In addition, it is important to maintain healthy lifestyle habits, strengthen physical condition, prevent colds, and avoid excessive fatigue and staying up late.