Swelling of tonsils, resulting from bacterial infection, is usually treated with antibiotics. Home remedies such as gargling and drinking cold water are also beneficial to get rid of the infection.
Tonsils are lymphoid organs situated on each side of the throat. They form an integral part of the immune system and are mainly involved in the production of antibodies. Swollen tonsils, also referred to as tonsillitis, occur when harmful bacteria or viruses infect the tonsils. Difficulty swallowing is the most common symptom of swelling of tonsils.
Prescription Treatment
Antibiotics
Generally, tonsils become swollen due to a bacterial infection. Antibiotics are often recommended to kill the bacteria, which helps to get rid of the inflammation. The most commonly prescribed antibiotic for inflamed tonsils is penicillin.
Anti-inflammatory Medications
Medicines such as acetaminophen and ibuprofen can also relieve throat pain and inflammation. These medicines are available over-the-counter and need to be taken as instructed by the doctor to reduce the swelling.
Surgery
This form of treatment is used when the patient frequently suffers from inflamed tonsils. A chronic infection that causes persistent tonsillitis is often treated with surgery. Also, known as tonsillectomy, surgical procedure involves removing the tonsils to prevent chronic and recurrent infection of the tonsils.
Home Remedies
In case, tonsillitis is viral in nature, home remedies remain the only option. They are discussed below:
Gargling
Take a glass of hot water and mix one pinch of salt and a teaspoon of lime juice into it. Gargle with this solution, three times daily, to decrease the inflammation and the discomfort in throat. Gargling with hot water that contains fenugreek seeds can also help to clear up the infection.
Ice
Drinking cold water that contains ice cubes, is also recommended for people with swollen tonsils. This is because, ice mixed with water plays a very important role to subside the pain. Intake of iced tea, can also assist to alleviate the discomfort.
Herbal Tea
Drinking herbal tea is another tonsillitis remedy that can also contribute to soothe the pain. A cup of mullein and lobelia tea act as excellent herbal aids to reduce the swelling of the tonsils.
Ice Cream
This is a ‘delicious’ way to treat tonsillitis. Have a cup of ice cream everyday can work wonders to ease the pain.
Herbs
Certain herbs can also relieve the swelling of the tonsils. These herbs accelerate the healing process and are very useful to treat a variety of throat problems. Herbs that positively affect the lymph nodes are given below:
- Belladonna 30C
- Gelsemium 6C
- Salvia Offcinalis
- Echinacea
Eating solid foods can increase the discomfort associated with swollen tonsils. Instead, follow a soft diet that includes foods that can be easily swallowed. Also, one needs to avoid unnecessary talk, as it can also aggravate pain and prolong recovery.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is solely for educating the reader. It is not intended to be a substitute for the advice of a medical expert.
