Does chronic tonsillitis cause headaches?

Written by Li Rui
Otolaryngology
Updated on September 30, 2024
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Chronic tonsillitis generally does not cause headaches, as the main cause of chronic tonsillitis is repeated inflammation of the tonsils. The primary symptoms are sore throat and a sensation of a foreign body in the throat. Some people may also experience snoring and breathing through the mouth while sleeping, but overall, the main manifestations of this disease are in the throat area, so the clinical symptoms are primarily those related to the throat. Generally, it does not lead to headaches. If there is a cold, sinusitis, or rhinitis accompanying it, headaches may occur. However, the specific causes of the condition should be assessed by visiting an otolaryngology department to determine and apply the correct treatment.

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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 Deng Bang Yu
Otolaryngology
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What should be avoided in the diet for acute tonsillitis?

Acute tonsillitis is primarily caused by an acute infectious inflammation of the tonsils due to bacterial infection, which may also initially involve viral infections. The main bacteria involved are Staphylococcus aureus and hemolytic streptococcus. The dietary restrictions for acute tonsillitis mainly include the following: Firstly, in terms of diet, it is important to eat light, nutritious, and easily digestible foods. Spicy and stimulating foods such as tobacco and chili peppers should be avoided, as these irritants can cause further congestion and swelling of the mucous membranes, exacerbating the condition during the acute phase. Secondly, attention should be given to substances such as mangoes and seafood, which can cause allergies. If a patient is allergic to these substances, consuming them can trigger allergic symptoms, aggravating the clinical symptoms of acute tonsillitis and worsening the condition. Thirdly, it is important to ensure that the food consumed is neither too hot nor too cold, as extreme temperatures can affect the recovery from the illness.

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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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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.

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How long to receive IV therapy for acute tonsillitis?

Acute tonsillitis is an acute infectious inflammation of the tonsils, primarily caused by bacterial infection. Therefore, intravenous therapy is required for acute tonsillitis, which indicates that the symptoms of the tonsillitis are severe, often being suppurative tonsillitis. The duration of intravenous treatment generally lasts about three to five days, but it specifically depends on the patient's condition, and can even last longer. After the infection is controlled and symptoms are alleviated, treatment can switch to oral medications for anti-infection. Overall, there is no specific time rule for how long the infusion should last; it is often determined based on the specific condition of the patient.