Question
My child is a 4-year-old boy. He recently started complaining that drinking water causes pain in his throat. I noticed his voice is a bit hoarse when he talks, and he’s been running a low-grade fever. What symptoms occur when a child develops tonsillitis?
Answer
When a child develops tonsillitis, the first symptom is usually a sore throat, which may then affect the ears and potentially lead to otitis media. Most children will experience a fever, with temperatures sometimes reaching 39-40 degrees Celsius in severe cases. They may also experience headache, body aches, fatigue, and chills. Upon close inspection, you may notice that the child’s tonsils are red and swollen. The child may also suffer from complications such as sepsis, arthritis, and skin disorders. It’s advisable to observe your child’s condition and seek medical diagnosis and treatment as soon as possible if the symptoms are severe.