Angina is a common childhood disease that manifests itself as a sore throat, fever and enlarged tonsils. Find out how to recognize angina in a child, how to treat it and how to prevent recurrence.
What is angina?
Angina, also known as acute inflammation of the palatine tonsils and throat, is a bacterial or viral infection. In most cases, tonsillitis in children is caused by group A streptococcus bacteria (Streptococcus pyogenes). Angina is contagious and is transmitted by the droplet route, such as when coughing, sneezing or speaking.
Symptoms of tonsillitis in children
The symptoms of tonsillitis can vary depending on the age of the child and the severity of the infection. The most common symptoms are:
- Severe sore throat, making swallowing difficult
- High fever, often above 38°C
- Enlarged and reddened tonsils with white plaque
- Headache
- Abdominal pain
- Nausea and vomiting (more common in younger children)
- General malaise and lack of appetite
- Enlarged lymph nodes on the neck
In infants and young children, the symptoms of tonsillitis may be less specific. The child may be irritable, whiny, have trouble sucking and sleeping.
Recognizing angina in a child
If you suspect that your child has tonsillitis, it is essential to see a doctor. A doctor can diagnose tonsillitis based on a physical examination and symptoms. In some cases, the doctor may order a rapid strep test (Strep A test) or a throat swab to confirm the diagnosis and determine the type of bacteria causing the infection.
Treatment of tonsillitis in children
Treatment of tonsillitis depends on the cause of the infection.
- Bacterial angina: In the case of angina caused by bacteria, the doctor will prescribe an antibiotic. It is important to administer the antibiotic according to the doctor’s instructions and to complete the entire treatment, even if the symptoms subside earlier. Interrupting treatment can lead to relapse and complications.
- Viral Angina: Viral Angina usually resolves spontaneously after a few days. Symptomatic treatment consists of lowering fever, relieving sore throat and ensuring adequate hydration.
Home remedies for tonsillitis in children
In addition to drug treatment, you can help your child relieve the symptoms of tonsillitis by using home methods:
- Give your child plenty of fluids, such as water, herbal teas, fruit juices diluted with water.
- Ensure adequate humidity in your child’s room.
- Give your child summer meals that are easy to swallow, such as soups, yogurts, fruit purees.
- Avoid giving your child acidic, spicy and hard foods that can irritate the throat.
- Encourage your child to gargle with warm water and salt (for older children).
- Use over-the-counterpainkillers and antipyretics, such as paracetamol or ibuprofen (always as prescribed by your doctor or pharmacist).
- Provide your child with rest and limit physical activity.
Complications of angina
Untreated tonsillitis can lead to serious complications, such as:
- Peri-tonsillar abscess: accumulation of pus behind the tonsils
- Otitis media
- Sinusitis
- Rheumatic fever: an autoimmune disease that can damage the heart, joints and brain
- Glomerulonephritis: inflammation of the kidneys that can lead to kidney failure
Prevention of tonsillitis in children
To reduce your child’s risk of contracting tonsillitis, it’s a good idea to follow a few rules:
- Teach your child proper hygiene, including frequent hand washing, especially after coughing, sneezing and using the toilet.
- Avoid contact with people with tonsillitis.
- Strengthen your child’s immunity through a healthy diet, physical activity and adequate sleep.
- Regularly ventilate the rooms where the child is staying.
- Avoid overheating your baby.
- For recurrent tonsillitis, consult your doctor, who may recommend removing the tonsils.
When is tonsillitis in a child contagious?
Angina is already contagious before symptoms appear and remains contagious for about 2-3 weeks or until antibiotic therapy is completed. A child with tonsillitis should stay home and avoid contact with other children to prevent the spread of the infection.
Angina vs. other diseases
The symptoms of tonsillitis can be similar to those of other diseases, such as:
- Infectious mononucleosis: a viral disease that also presents with sore throat, fever and enlarged tonsils.
- Laryngitis: a viral disease that manifests itself with hoarseness, coughing and shortness of breath.
- Measles: a viral disease that manifests itself with a rash, fever and cough.
If in doubt about the diagnosis, always consult your doctor.
Remember that angina is a serious disease that requires treatment. Prompt recognition and implementation of appropriate treatment will help avoid complications and ensure a quick recovery.
Note:
The above article is for informational purposes and is not a substitute for visiting a doctor. If you have any doubts about your health, consult a specialist.
