Question

My daughter is 1 year old. She recently started saying she has a sore throat and I’ve noticed her coughing seems more severe. Additionally, she has a bit of a fever and seems less energetic. I would like to know: What symptoms might a young child experience with tonsillitis?

Answer

When a child has tonsillitis, the first symptom they usually experience is a sore throat, which may then affect the ears, potentially leading to otitis media. They often have a fever, which can range from low-grade to high-grade, reaching up to 40 degrees Celsius. They may also have headaches or body aches. At this time, the child’s tonsils will appear red and swollen, which is usually due to inflammation and congestion. The child may also experience complications such as sepsis, arthritis, and skin disorders. Therefore, if any of these symptoms are noticed in the child, it is essential to seek medical attention promptly to prevent complications.