THROAT DISORDERS

• TONSILLITIS:

Tonsillitis is a common infection of the tonsils.

The tonsils sit at the back of the throat. They are collections of lymphoid tissue that form part of the immune system.

Although tonsillitis can be uncomfortable and unpleasant, the condition is rarely a major health concern. Most people will recover from tonsillitis within a few days, whether they take medication or not. Most symptoms will resolve within 7–10 days.

SYMPTOMS

The most common symptoms of tonsillitis include:

• a sore throat and pain when swallowing

• red and swollen tonsils with pus-filled spots

• fever

• headache

• difficulty swallowing

• pain in the ears and neck

• tiredness

• difficulty sleeping

• coughing

• chills

• swollen lymph glands

Less common symptoms may include:

• fatigue

• stomach pain and vomiting

• nausea

• furry tongue

• changes in the sound of the voice

• bad breath

• difficulty opening the mouth