Pediatric Tonsillitis

We've all seen a scene in a show or movie where a kid gets to gobble ice cream because they're battling tonsil problems.

However, pediatric tonsillitis doesn't necessarily require removal. Tonsils serve an important function, so it's important to talk to your child's doctor about the pros and cons of removal.

Tonsils are part of the lymphatic system that filter toxins from the body. Because tonsils are the first line of defense against germs and viruses that enter through the mouth or nose, the tissue is vulnerable to infection. This is especially common in children five to 15 years old.

Symptoms

Nearly all children get tonsillitis at some point, and it typically heals on its own within one week. Symptoms include:

• Aches
• Ear pain
• Enlarged neck glands
• Fatigue
• Fever or chills
• Headache
• Hoarse voice
• Nausea and vomiting
• Red or enlarged tonsils and throat
• Trouble breathing, snoring or swallowing
• Whitish tonsil discharge

Treatments

According to Yale Medicine, the cause of tonsillitis is bacteria or viruses, like streptococcus. If a child has strep-based tonsillitis, it's essential to treat. It can lead to rare, life-threatening conditions like rheumatic fever. If bacterial, healthcare providers generally prescribe antibiotics as well as:

• Rest
• Hydration
• Warm liquids or popsicles
• Gargling saltwater
• Running a cool humidifier
• Throat lozenges
• OTC pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen

However, tonsils can do more harm than good. If tonsillitis doesn't respond to antibiotics or becomes a chronic condition, a pediatrician may recommend removal. However, many physicians try to avoid tonsillectomies unless breathing is obstructed.

If you suspect your child might have chronic tonsillitis, talk to their doctor about next steps.

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