Tonsils refer to those oval-shaped lumps of tissues located at the back of the throat. When you have tonsillitis, it means your tonsils are inflamed. This is usually a result of a bacterial or viral infection. Due to the tonsils’ location, tonsillitis can affect the throat as well as its surrounding areas. Since the tonsils work as defense mechanisms to keep the body protected from infection, having tonsillitis can also affect the lymphatic system. Here are some of the causes and symptoms of tonsillitis.
1. Bacterial Infection
About 5% to 36% of tonsillitis cases are a result of bacterial infection. In most cases, it is usually due to the bacterium group A streptococcus. This is the same bacterium that can trigger strep throat. Other strains of strep and some other bacteria may also cause tonsillitis.
A group of medical researchers has found a link between tonsillitis and anaerobic bacteria. This connection can lead to a clearer and more accurate understanding of tonsillitis and how it can be treated. Bacterial tonsillitis is more common among kids between the age of 5 and 15 while younger individuals are more prone to having viral tonsillitis.
