Paediatric ENT Conditions

The tonsils - located at the sides of the throat along with the adenoids - are part of the lymphatic system which clears away infection and keeps body fluids in balance. These organs work by trapping the germs coming in through the mouth and nose. Tonsillitis is an infection of the tonsils and is common in children aged above two years, but very rare in adults.

Tonsillitis can be caused by either viruses or bacteria. Symptoms include a sore throat on both sides, general malaise, bad breath, trouble swallowing, white/yellow coating on the tonsils, fever and swollen lymph nodes in the neck. These symptoms typically last for about a week.  

Treatment for tonsillitis focuses on managing symptoms and addressing the underlying cause. Pain relief measures and adequate hydration are recommended during acute episodes. Antibiotics are prescribed if bacterial tonsillitis is suspected or if symptoms do not improve.

Tonsillectomy the surgical removal of the tonsils, may be considered in cases where tonsillitis becomes recurrent or severe. Criteria for considering tonsillectomy include experiencing a certain number of episodes of tonsillitis in one or more years. Those who go through two episodes of peritonsillar abscess (or quinsy - a complication of tonsillitis where pus collects between the tonsils and the surrounding tissues) may also be considered for a tonsillectomy.