Tonsillitis is an infection and swelling of the tonsils which are oval shaped lymph nodes present in the back of mouth and the upper part of the throat.

» CAUSE:-

Tonsillitis is mostly caused by a bacterial infection, mainly due to streptococcus, Pneumococcus and Haemophillus bacteria. Viruses e.g. Adenovirus may also cause tonsillitis. The infection spreads by:-

• Having a sore throat that develops with tonsillitis.
• Sharing utensils or toothbrushes with people infected by or carrying streptococcal bacteria.
• Coming in contact with someone suffering from tonsillar or phorgngeal infection.

» Symptoms:-

• Rapid onset of a severe sore throat
• Moderate to high fever
• Difficulty and pain on swallowing.
• Red and enlarged tonsils that may or may not have pus.
• Swollen or tender lymph nodes below the jaw.
• Hoarseness or loss of voice may be present.

» Precaution:-

As the bacteria and viruses causing tonsillitis spread easily from person to person.  So avoid exposure to anyone who is suffering from tonsillitis or sore throat.  Old toothbrushes should be replaced to prevent infection.  People taking care of someone suffering from tonsillitis should wash their hands frequently to prevent spreading the infection to others