Question
A 13-year-old boy, in elementary school, initially complained of a sore throat while speaking. He noticed that his voice was a bit hoarse and he’s been running a fever. How should one treat the discomfort caused by pediatric tonsillitis?
Answer
Currently, in clinical treatment of pediatric tonsillitis, antibiotics are primarily used. The choice of medication can be based on the sensitivity of the bacteria, which is effective. Regional treatments such as tonsil crypt irrigation and intratonsillar injections can also be considered. If the child experiences severe throat pain, it is recommended to administer analgesics according to the situation. If there is a fever, cooling methods should be chosen based on body temperature; physical cooling can be used for temperatures below 38.5 degrees Celsius, while oral fever-reducing medication can be taken for temperatures above 38.5 degrees Celsius. These methods are among the commonly used treatments for tonsillitis. In addition, surgery is also a viable option for children who have recurrent attacks. During treatment, it is important to ensure the child receives adequate nutrition, with a diet mainly consisting of light and easy-to-digest foods. Rest and avoiding fatigue should also be noted.