Question
A 13-year-old boy, in elementary school, initially had a slight sore throat, noticed it, and experienced severe coughing. He also had a low-grade fever. What are the dietary precautions for swallowing difficulties due to pediatric tonsillitis?
Answer
If a child has tonsillitis, it’s crucial to seek medical attention immediately. At the same time, parents should also ensure their child consumes more vegetables and fruits. Besides being light and non-irritating, these foods are also rich in nutrients that can help fight off illness. For fruits, we generally recommend choosing those that are neutral in nature and rich in vitamins, such as tangerines or kiwis. For staple foods, opt for soft and thin options like thin porridge or noodles to avoid affecting swallowing or causing constipation that could worsen the condition. While maintaining a light diet, also avoid eating irritants such as poultry eggs, donkey meat, beef, and mutton. Finally, help cultivate good dietary preferences in children; avoid picky eating or selective eating to provide comprehensive nutrition and reduce the incidence of pediatric tonsillitis.