Question
My 3-year-old son says he has a sore throat, accompanied by coughing and a low fever. What symptoms might indicate tonsillitis in a child?
Answer
When a child’s tonsils become inflamed, they will experience sore throat and ear pain, which can affect swallowing and cause a certain degree of fever, possibly up to 40 degrees Celsius. The child may also feel fatigue, headaches, or general body aches, and may have chills. The tonsils will appear red and swollen and are often larger than usual. If left untreated, it may lead to serious complications such as nephritis or endocarditis. It is advisable for parents to seek medical attention promptly if they suspect their child may have tonsillitis.