Chronic tonsillitis is a long term swelling and infection of the tonsils that does not get better. Tonsils are the round pieces of tissue at the back of the throat. They are part of the body’s immune system and help fight off illness.
Tonsillitis is common in children and many children have acute tonsillitis that happens suddenly and then gets better on its own or with treatment. Chronic tonsillitis occurs when the symptoms are ongoing. It is more common in older children.
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What are the signs and symptoms of chronic tonsillitis?
Common symptoms of chronic tonsillitis may include:
- Sore throat
- Tender lymph nodes in the neck
- Bad breath
- Breathing through the mouth
- Hard bits of debris on the tonsils, called tonsil stones
What causes chronic tonsillitis?
Tonsillitis is most often caused by viruses, such as the virus that causes the flu. It can also be caused by bacteria, such as the bacterial infection that causes strep throat. Chronic tonsillitis develops when the symptoms of tonsillitis last for longer than a few weeks.
How is chronic tonsillitis treated?
Treatment for chronic tonsillitis may include both surgical and non-surgical options.
- If the tonsillitis is caused by a bacterial infection, your child’s doctor may prescribe antibiotics.
- If your child’s tonsillitis is caused by a viral infection, your doctor may recommend drinking extra fluids and over-the-counter pain medicines.
- Your child’s doctor may recommend surgery to remove the tonsils if your child has tonsillitis many times in one year or over several years.
Doctors at Connecticut Children’s can determine the right plan if your child requires treatment for chronic tonsillitis.