The tonsils are part of the immune system and they are located in the back of the mouth and throat. They are buds of tissue that make white blood cells and antibodies to attack any germs that enter the mouth. As a result, any bacteria introduced to the mouth through the air or food are dealt with by the tonsils first. When the tonsils are infected, which may occur as a result of viruses or bacteria, then tonsillitis is the result. People of all ages may develop tonsillitis although tonsillitis in adults is usually a result of individuals suffering from tonsil infections throughout their lives. Because of this, tonsillitis in adults is not as common as it is in children.
The most common symptom of tonsillitis in adults is an extremely painful throat in addition to spots of white or yellow pus on the tonsils. The lymph nodes under the jaw may also be swollen and people usually experience quite a bit of pain when they swallow. Bad breath and a fever may also accompany tonsillitis.
A small percentage of all tonsillitis infections are caused by streptococci, which is a bacterial infection. The only way for the doctor to know whether a virus or bacteria is causing the tonsillitis is to take a swab of the throat cultures and have them tested. Tonsillitis may be caused by glandular fever although there are lots of viruses that cause tonsillitis too. If a viral infection causes the tonsillitis there is nothing antibiotics can do. In this case, plenty of rest and fluids is all that can be done while the body fights off the illness.
There are several complications that can result from tonsillitis in adults. For example, chronic tonsillitis occurs in some individuals who simply cannot get rid of the illness. They will feel tired and sick because of this. Another common problem includes secondary infections. When the infection spreads to the ears, nose and/or sinuses. Sometimes an abscess may even form in the throat, which may be treated with antibiotics or surgery.
In general, tonsillitis in adults is caused by a virus so the only treatment options include treating the symptoms. Individuals who frequently experience tonsillitis should consider having their tonsils out. However, many doctors no longer recommend this particular treatment.
Individuals experiencing tonsillitis symptoms should see their doctor as soon as possible because it is possible they have a bacterial infection that may be treated with antibiotics. It’s always good to get checked out by a doctor to find out the root of the tonsillitis and receive treatment.