Question
A 7-year-old boy, in elementary school, has recently started feeling a sore throat and severe coughing. He now has a high fever and I would like to ask, what clinical symptoms can occur in pediatric tonsillitis?
Answer
When a child has tonsillitis, the first symptom is usually a sore throat, which may even trigger an ear infection. They may also experience fever, sometimes low-grade, and sometimes high-grade fever ranging from 39 to 40 degrees Celsius. The child may feel weak and have a headache, and in severe cases, chills. At this time, the tonsils will become red and swollen. Additionally, tonsillitis can lead to serious complications such as sepsis, rheumatism, and arthritis. If the child’s condition continues to deteriorate, it is recommended that parents take their child to the doctor as soon as possible.