DISEASE SCANNER
Global Incurable Diseases Tracker
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Infectious Disease
Tonsillitis
LOW SEVERITY
Inflammation of the tonsils, lymph nodes at the back of the throat. Can be viral or bacterial (primarily streptococcal). Common in children but can affect adults. May be acute or recurrent.
Global Affected
15.0M
Countries
25
Symptoms
Sore throat
Red/swollen tonsils
White/yellow patches on tonsils
Painful swallowing
Fever
Swollen lymph nodes
Bad breath
Voice changes
Headache
Treatment Options
Antibiotics (bacterial)
Pain relievers
Throat lozenges
Warm salt water gargle
Rest
Hydration
Tonsillectomy (recurrent)
Corticosteroids (severe swelling)
Risk Factors
1Age (5-15 years)
2Close contact with infected person
3School/childcare settings
4Weakened immune system
5Season (winter/spring)
Diagnostic Methods
- 1Physical examination
- 2Rapid strep test
- 3Throat culture
- 4Monospot test (mononucleosis)
- 5Blood tests
Prognosis
Excellent. Acute cases resolve in 1 week with treatment. Recurrent cases may need tonsillectomy. Complications rare with treatment (peritonsillar abscess, rheumatic fever).
Prevention
- Hand washing
- Avoid sharing utensils
- Cover coughs/sneezes
- Stay home when sick
- Replace toothbrush after infection
Research Status
Bacterial requires antibiotics to prevent complications. Viral is supportive care. Tonsillectomy for recurrent cases. Research on rapid strep tests and antibiotic stewardship ongoing.
Affected Countries
Sources
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/tonsillitis
- https://www.hematology.org/education/patients
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books
- https://rarediseases.org/rare-diseases
Medical Disclaimer
This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult healthcare professionals for medical advice, diagnosis, and treatment.