Question
My son is 4 years old. He recently complained of pain when swallowing and was found to have a slight cough. He has also had a slight fever. What symptoms should I look out for if my child has tonsillitis?
Answer
Most children with tonsillitis will feel a sore throat, with the pain worsening during swallowing. They may also experience a fever, which could be a persistent low-grade fever or even reach 40 degrees Celsius. Other symptoms include fatigue, headache, body aches, and chills. The tonsils are usually red and swollen, often larger than normal, and this condition can lead to more serious complications such as sepsis, rheumatism, and arthritis. Therefore, if a child exhibits these symptoms, it is essential to seek medical attention promptly to prevent complications.