Tonsillitis Treatment in Santa Barbara, CA
The tonsils are tasked with helping the body to fight off infection, though they can often become infected themselves with the hefty amount of germs that make their way into the mouth and nose. When this infection occurs, it is known medically as a condition of tonsillitis.
Anyone can develop tonsillitis, though it is especially common in young children. Recurrent cases of tonsillitis may call for the removal of these tissues if they are unresponsive to traditional treatments. Dr. Charish Barry is a board-certified pediatrician highly trained in diagnosing and treating children for common illnesses such as tonsillitis. Call (805) 845-1221 to request an appointment at our pediatric clinic in Santa Barbara today!
Symptoms of Tonsillitis
Not surprisingly, it is very common for individuals to notice a change in the appearance of their tonsils if they have become infected. Most often, the tonsils will become red and swollen, and may also be coated in white or yellow patches. Other typical symptoms include:
- Pain and difficulty when swallowing
- Sore throat
- Headache
- Foul smelling breath
- Fever
- Swollen lymph nodes on either or both sides of the neck
- Difficulty speaking, or changes in regular tone of voice
- Stomach pains
Because tonsillitis often affects kids as young as two years of age, it may be challenging to notice their symptoms since they are not typically able to clearly verbalize their discomfort. If your child presents common physical symptoms of tonsillitis and also becomes unusually fussy, refuses to eat, or starts to drool more than usual, it is advised that they see a pediatrician immediately for treatment.
Diagnosis and Treatment
Tonsillitis may be caused by a variety of diseases both bacterial and viral, which means that multiple tests may need to be conducted before a definitive diagnosis is reached. Fortunately, these diagnostic tests are very simple and can be completed quickly to help you or your child begin a course of treatment as soon as possible.
If the patient’s tonsillitis is determined to have been caused by a bacterial infection, it can usually be easily treated using common antibiotic medications. Those with a viral infection will need to simply wait until the symptoms have passed within 7-10 days. There are still several ways in which you can ease these symptoms of a viral infection, including:
- Taking over-the-counter anti-inflammatories to help reduce swelling
- Use lozenges to help soothe the throat
- Gargle with saltwater
- Rest as much as possible to allow the body to heal on its own
- Set up a humidifier nearby to prevent dryness of the throat or nasal passages
- Remain hydrated to ease swallowing
As previously mentioned, surgery to remove the tonsils (known as a tonsillectomy) may be advised by a pediatrician if the patient frequently encounters tonsillitis, or cases of tonsillitis that are unresponsive to treatment. In severe cases, swollen tonsils may lead to difficulty breathing and/or inability to swallow food. If these vital functions are affected, it is imperative that the individual receive medical attention as soon as possible.
Request an Consultation for Tonsillitis Treatment Today
If your child is showing symptoms of tonsillitis, contact Petite Pediatrics to discuss your child’s diagnosis and treatment. To schedule your consultation with Dr. Charish Barry at our pediatric clinic in Santa Barbara, please call (805) 845-1221 today!
