Tonsillitis
Definition:
Tonsillitis is inflammation of the tonsils, two oval-shaped pads of tissue at the back of the throat one tonsil on each side. Signs and symptoms of tonsillitis include swollen tonsils, sore throat, difficulty swallowing and tender lymph nodes on the sides of the neck.
Signs & Symptoms:
Tonsillitis most commonly affects children between preschool ages and the mid-teenage years. Common signs and symptoms of tonsillitis include:
Red, swollen tonsils
White or yellow coating or patches on the tonsils
Sore throat
Difficult or painful swallowing
Fever
Enlarged, tender glands (lymph nodes) in the neck
A scratchy, muffled or throaty voice
Bad breath
Stomachache, particularly in younger children
Stiff neck
Headache
In young children who are unable to describe how they feel, signs of tonsillitis may include:
Drooling due to difficult or painful swallowing
Refusal to eat
Unusual fussiness
Cause:
Tonsillitis is most often caused by common viruses, but bacterial infections can also be the cause.
The most common bacterium causing tonsillitis is Streptococcus pyogenes (group A streptococcus), the bacterium that causes strep throat. Other strains of strep and other bacteria also may cause tonsillitis.
How To Cure:
- Salt Water
The best and the most common home remedy for tonsillitis is to gargle with warm salt water. The warm water will have a soothing effect and the salt will help kill the virus or bacteria. Plus, salt helps reduce inflammation, giving you instant relief.
Mix one teaspoon of table salt in a cup of warm water.
Gargle with the solution. Do not swallow it. Spit the water out after gargling.
Repeat this as often as possible for speedy recovery.
- Lemon
Lemons antiviral, antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties take care of the infection as well as the inflammation. Plus, its high vitamin C content improves the bodys resistance to infections.
In a glass of lukewarm water, add the juice from one lemon, a pinch of salt and one teaspoon of honey. Drink it slowly, twice daily for a few days.
Alternatively, you can sprinkle a little salt and pepper on a slice of lemon, and then suck on the lemon slice. It will help force the phlegm out of your throat. Do this two or three times a day for several days.
- Basil
Basil is another very effective home remedy for tonsillitis due to its antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties. Plus, its healing properties and soothing qualities will help reduce swelling and pain as well as speed up the healing process.
Add 10 to 12 basil leaves to one and one-half cups of water.
Boil for 10 minutes.
Strain and add the juice from one lemon to the solution. Optionally, add one teaspoon of honey to sweeten it.
Drink this three times a day for two to three days.
