Tonsillitis

Sore throat, medically known as tonsillitis, is an inflammation of the tonsils, usually caused by viruses or bacteria. It is a common condition, especially in children and young adults. Sore throat can lead to a severe sore throat, swollen tonsils, and fever.

Causes of a sore throat

• Viruses: Common viruses that cause a sore throat include the common cold virus, the flu virus, and Common symptoms of a sore throat
  • Severe sore throat: The pain can be intense and worsens when swallowing.
  • Fever: Common, especially with bacterial infection.
  • Red and swollen tonsils: Sometimes with white deposits or pus.
  • Swollen lymph nodes: Especially in the angle of the jaw and on the neck.
  • Headache and muscle pain: Common with bacterial tonsillitis.
  • Bad breath: Can occur with infected tonsils.
  • Hoarseness and voice impairment: Especially if the inflammation has spread to the larynx.

  Diagnosis of strep throat

  • Clinical examination: The doctor inspects the throat and tonsils and feels for swollen lymph nodes.
  • Rapid test for streptococci: If bacterial tonsillitis is suspected, a rapid test (strep-A) can be used to detect streptococci.
  • Culture: If the rapid test is negative but the suspicion remains, a throat culture can be taken for precise species determination.

  Treatment of strep throat

  1. Viral strep throat: Treat symptomatically with rest, fluids and pain relief (paracetamol or ibuprofen).

  2. Bacterial strep throat: Antibiotic treatment (usually penicillin V) if streptococci is demonstrated.

  3. Surgical treatment: In the case of recurrent tonsillitis, tonsillectomy (removal of the tonsils) can be considered.

  Blood tests for long-term or recurrent tonsillitis

  In the case of persistent or recurrent tonsillitis, it may be appropriate to investigate underlying causes with blood tests:

  • "CRP (C-reactive protein): To assess the degree of inflammation.
  • strong>SR (lower): Used in the investigation of long-term inflammation.
  • "Blood To rule out blood diseases or immunodeficiency.

  • ASO titer: Can show whether the body has had a previous streptococcal infection.

  • "Epstein-Barr if there is suspicion of glandular fever (mononucleosis).
  • Immunoglobulins (IgA, IgG, IgM): To assess the function of the immune system.

  When should you seek care for a sore throat?

  • If a sore throat does not improve after a few days.
  • If there is a high fever and difficulty swallowing or breathing.
  • If recurrent sore throats occur more than 3–4 times per year.

  Frequently asked questions about strep throat

  Is strep throat contagious?

  Yes, strep throat is contagious – especially if it is caused by bacteria such as streptococci. The infection is spread through saliva, coughing or close contact, such as sharing cutlery, drinking glasses or kissing. A person with strep throat is usually contagious for 24–48 hours after starting antibiotic treatment. Without treatment, you can be contagious for several days.

  Common symptoms of strep throat?

  • Severe sore throat, often bilateral and worsened when swallowing.
  • Fever is common, often above 38 degrees, especially in bacterial infections.
  • Red and swollen tonsils, sometimes with white pus.
  • Swollen lymph nodes in the neck and tender lumps under the jaw.
  • Headache and fatigue.

  Can you have strep throat without a fever?

  Yes, it is possible to have sore throat without a fever, especially if the infection is mild or if it is caused by a virus. Some people only have a sore throat and swollen tonsils without any clear increase in temperature. However, this does not mean that the condition is harmless - if the symptoms persist, a doctor should be consulted.