Tonsillitis symptoms may vary but generally include the following:
- A painfully sore throat
- Trouble swallowing due to swelling of the tonsils
- Croaky voice
- Hot and cold flushes
- High fever
- Headaches
- Earache
- Painful swollen glands as well as blisters or ulcers at the back of the throat
- Stiff neck
- A sore tummy – stomach aches (abdominal pain)
- Bad breath due to tonsils being infected
- White and yellow spots on the tonsils
- Tonsils that are red and swollen
- Nausea and vomiting
If your young child has tonsillitis you may also notice that he/she is easily irritated, has lost their appetite, has tummy aches which may possibly lead to vomiting and could also feel a sense of confusion due to a high fever. Very small children may even drool a lot.
When should I call a doctor if I think I have tonsillitis?
Some cases of tonsillitis may resolve without medical attention, however, should you feel as though you or your child are at risk of being infected, it is always wise to seek medical help. You should call your doctor if you:
- Have a fever that is higher than 39.5℃ (103.1℉)
- Are experiencing unusual muscle weakness.
- Have a stiff neck that is difficult to move
- Have had a continuously sore throat for more than two days
When should I call a doctor if I think my child has tonsillitis?
It is very important to get immediate medical attention if your child is experiencing any of the following:
- A sore throat that lasts for longer than 48 hours.
- If your child is finding it hard to swallow.
- If they are feeling extremely weak and tired, as well as displaying actions indicative of confusion.
- If they are experiencing nausea and vomiting.
- In some more severe cases, your child might be experiencing difficulty in breathing due to extreme swelling of the tonsils – this is an indication for immediate professional help to be sought.