Tonsillitis

Along with the adenoids, the tonsils are composed of lymphatic tissue, and form part of the immune system, helping to prevent infectious organisms entering the body via the mouth (i.e. in food or air). Tonsillitis develops if they become infected themselves.

Most cases of tonsillitis are caused by viral infection. Along with others, the viruses responsible may include Epstein-Barr virus (which also causes glandular fever), viruses from the Herpes simplex family, cytomegalovirus, and the measles virus.

Bacterial infections are less frequent, but when they do occur tend to be caused by one of the Streptococcus bacteria.

Children are at particular risk of tonsillitis, and are more susceptible if there is a family history of tonsillitis or atopic disease (i.e. hay fever, dermatitis or asthma). Other predisposing factors include living in over-crowded conditions, and being malnourished.

• In clinical studies, andrographis has been shown to relieve symptoms of upper respiratory tract infections. It is considered particularly effective for sore throats, and also helps to alleviate other symptoms, such as runny nose, fatigue, and nasal discharges.
• Olive leaf has traditionally been used to support general wellbeing including immunity, and to relieve symptoms of sore throat and upper respiratory tract infection, including fevers.
• Lozenges containing echinacea, vitamin C and eucalyptus oil help soothe and relieve sore throat. The eucalyptus oil provides a cooling effect on the throat, and helps clear nasal congestion.
• Echinacea supports the immune system. It has traditionally been taken to relieve symptoms of upper respiratory tract infection, including sore throat.
• For children, echinacea is best taken in a liquid form that allows an appropriate dose to be dispensed according to the child’s age.
• For adults, echinacea is often taken with antioxidant nutrients that also support the immune system, such as betacarotene, vitamins C and E and the minerals zinc and selenium. 
• For children, taking the probiotic strains Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG and Bifidobacterium animalis supports a normal healthy immune system, and may help reduce the severity and frequency of mild upper respiratory infections. These probiotics also help maintain the friendly bacteria of the gastrointestinal tract during and after the use of medicines that may disrupt the intestinal flora.

• As tonsillitis is usually viral, antibiotics are not always helpful, but if they are prescribed, it is important to finish the entire course of the medicine.
• Make sure you get plenty of rest too – it will help you recover more quickly.
• During tonsillitis, maintain your body fluids by drinking lots of water. If you are concerned that you or your child may be becoming dehydrated. Seek medical advice.
• Gargles made with sage or thyme herbal teas are traditional remedies for throat infections. To make the gargle, pour 100 mL of boiling water over half a teaspoon of either herb. Cover, and allow it to steep until it cools enough to use as a gargle. Strain the tea and use as a gargle several times a day, making a fresh batch every time.
• To relieve the pain of tonsillitis, try sucking on ice cubes or ice blocks. Drinking beverages at a cool rather than cold temperature may be less painful to the inflamed tonsils.
• Don’t be alarmed if your child doesn’t feel like eating when they have tonsillitis – the appetite will normally return quickly once it no longer hurts to swallow. In the meantime, fresh juices, soft mushy foods and pureed soups may be more appetising than food they have to chew.
• Many natural therapists believe that children with food allergies or intolerances are more susceptible to tonsillitis than other kids, and dairy intolerance is regarded as a particularly important consideration. Talk to your healthcare professional for more information.

• If you or your child are experiencing breathing difficulties, seek medical assistance urgently.
• Surgery is sometimes advised for those with recurrent tonsillitis. Talk to your healthcare professional for more information.