How to manage chronic tonsillitis?

Written by Deng Bang Yu
Otolaryngology
Updated on September 08, 2024
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Chronic tonsillitis is a chronic inflammatory disease of the tonsils, which clinically manifests as various discomforts in the throat area, and can even present symptoms such as bad breath. In clinical management of chronic tonsillitis, dietary adjustments are primary. It is essential to have a nutritious, easily digestible, and bland diet; spicy foods such as peppers, as well as smoking and alcohol, should be avoided. Consumption of certain fruits that can cause allergies, like mangoes, and other irritant fruits like pineapple should be limited. For medicinal treatment, it mainly involves the use of traditional Chinese medicines that clear heat and detoxify, such as Nei Xiao Luo Li Wan, Xuan Mai Gan Ju Granules, Watermelon Frost Lozenges, Coral Lozenges, etc. Thirdly, it is important to regulate your diet, drink plenty of water, and avoid factors like colds and upper respiratory infections that may trigger acute episodes of tonsillitis.

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Written by Deng Bang Yu
Otolaryngology
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Is acute tonsillitis contagious?

Acute tonsillitis is an acute infectious inflammation of the tonsils, primarily caused by bacterial infection, though it often also involves viral infection. Acute tonsillitis is mildly contagious; the contagion is not severe or serious, and general isolation is not necessary. It is sufficient to take some precautions in daily life, such as avoiding kissing and the mouth-to-mouth transfer of food. Generally speaking, the contagiousness of acute tonsillitis is relatively weak. Appropriate use of a mask for local isolation, such as wearing a mask to prevent transmission, is sufficient without the need for other special treatments.

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Written by Li Mao Cai
Otolaryngology
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What are the symptoms of chronic tonsillitis?

The symptoms of chronic tonsillitis during the non-acute phase vary from person to person. Some individuals may not exhibit clear symptoms, while others may display more typical ones. The most common symptoms include recurrent sore throat, and sensations of dryness, itchiness, the presence of a foreign body, and discomfort in swallowing or coughing. Another common symptom is persistent cough, which can be irritating, with some individuals frequently clearing their throat. Bad breath may also occur, such as when stone-like substances form on the tonsils and are expelled, carrying a foul odor. If the tonsils are excessively enlarged, they can interfere with breathing, cause snoring during sleep, and even lead to breath-holding, resulting in unclear speech, as if speaking with a mouthful. These are commonly seen in clinical settings. Additionally, some systemic reactions may occur, including fever, fatigue, low-grade fever, and headaches.

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Written by Li Mao Cai
Otolaryngology
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How is chronic tonsillitis diagnosed?

The diagnosis of chronic tonsillitis mainly relies on the patient's usual symptoms, medical history, and physical examination by the doctor. The symptoms of chronic tonsillitis typically include sore throat, frequent colds, dry throat, itchy cough, foreign body sensation, and even snoring during sleep among some individuals. Medical history is particularly crucial. If there are recurrent acute episodes, characterized by sore throat, painful swallowing, and sometimes accompanied by high fever, and these episodes occur more than four times a year, this history is significant for diagnosing chronic tonsillitis. Additionally, physical examination by a doctor, who will inspect the tonsils, is essential for making the diagnosis of chronic tonsillitis. The main basis for diagnosis includes symptoms, medical history, and physical examination.

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Written by Deng Bang Yu
Otolaryngology
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How to manage chronic tonsillitis?

Chronic tonsillitis is a chronic inflammatory disease of the tonsils, which clinically manifests as various discomforts in the throat area, and can even present symptoms such as bad breath. In clinical management of chronic tonsillitis, dietary adjustments are primary. It is essential to have a nutritious, easily digestible, and bland diet; spicy foods such as peppers, as well as smoking and alcohol, should be avoided. Consumption of certain fruits that can cause allergies, like mangoes, and other irritant fruits like pineapple should be limited. For medicinal treatment, it mainly involves the use of traditional Chinese medicines that clear heat and detoxify, such as Nei Xiao Luo Li Wan, Xuan Mai Gan Ju Granules, Watermelon Frost Lozenges, Coral Lozenges, etc. Thirdly, it is important to regulate your diet, drink plenty of water, and avoid factors like colds and upper respiratory infections that may trigger acute episodes of tonsillitis.

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Written by Yao Jun
Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery
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What can you eat with acute tonsillitis?

Acute tonsillitis refers to acute inflammation of the tonsil mucosa and submucosa in the throat area, which may be related to bacterial infections, viral infections, and some physical and chemical factors, such as dust and high temperature. Therefore, it is advisable to avoid spicy and irritating foods in the case of acute tonsillitis. Instead, we can eat more bland, easily digestible, high-protein foods rich in vitamins, such as foods with a bitter taste. We can also consume some throat-clearing fruits like watermelon, dragon fruit, apple, and snow pear, etc. Thus, during the anti-inflammatory treatment for acute tonsillitis, one can also adopt a light diet.