Moderate Streptococcal tonsillitis
What is Moderate Streptococcal Tonsillitis?
Streptococcal tonsillitis is an infection caused by bacteria in the Streptococcus family. It is also sometimes referred to as strep throat. This type of infection generally affects the tonsils, the two masses of lymphoid tissue located in the back of the throat. Moderate Streptococcal tonsillitis is a common infection, particularly in children. It is estimated that 1-4% of children between the ages of 3-15 years old suffer from moderate Streptococcal tonsillitis each year. It is also more commonly seen in the winter months when children are in close quarters at school.
Symptoms of Moderate Streptococcal Tonsillitis
The symptoms of moderate Streptococcal tonsillitis vary between individuals, although the most common symptoms include:
- A sore throat
- Pain when swallowing
- Swollen glands
- Headache, fatigue, and fever
- Bad breath
- White patches on the tonsils
If you experience any of these symptoms and suspect that you may have moderate Streptococcal tonsillitis, it is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential for reducing the risk of developing more serious conditions and spreading the infection.
Diagnosis and Treatment of Moderate Streptococcal Tonsillitis
The diagnosis of moderate Streptococcal tonsillitis is usually made based on the symptoms and a throat swab. A throat swab is a procedure in which a sample of cells is taken from the back of the throat for testing. This can help to determine if the strep bacteria is present. If the results are positive, it is likely that you will be prescribed antibiotics to help reduce the risk of future complications. It is important to take the full course of antibiotics to ensure that the infection is truly gone.
Prevention of Moderate Streptococcal Tonsillitis
Prevention of moderate Streptococcal tonsillitis is founded on good hygiene and avoiding potential triggers. It is important to practice good hand hygiene by regularly washing your hands with soap and water. Additionally, avoiding close contact with someone who is known to have the infection can help to reduce the risk of catching strep.
Although moderate Streptococcal tonsillitis is relatively common, it is important to take the needed precautions to help reduce the risk. Seeking timely diagnosis and treatment is also essential for reducing future risk.