Complication
In the case of uncomplicated tonsillitis, the development of complications is generally not to be expected in the case of early diagnosis and prompt initiation of a suitable therapy. On the other hand, failure to provide targeted treatment and severe disease progression can lead to secondary diseases. Possible complications of tonsillitis are Bacterial colonization of the pharynx (especially the palatine tonsils) can lead to the development of abscesses if the immune system is severely weakened.
These are accumulations of pus-formed tissue cavities. Starting with tonsillitis, abscesses can be observed in the so-called retropharyngeal space (retropharyngeal abscess) and the palatine tonsils themselves (peritonsillar abscess, paratonsillar abscess). The patients affected usually suffer from pronounced swallowing difficulties and a visibly restricted mouth opening.
Typically, the complaints in these cases are limited to one half of the body. Severe, treatment-resistant forms of tonsillitis can lead to the infection spreading to other organ systems. In this context, the heart, kidneys and joints are particularly at risk.
- Abscesses
- Rheumatic fever
Prophylaxis
Since tonsillitis is a disease caused by bacterial or viral pathogens, its development can be prevented in many cases. First and foremost, special attention should be paid to washing hands. The germs that lead to the development of tonsillitis are mainly found on door handles and door openers.
People who suffer from a temporary or general immune deficiency should also disinfect their hands several times a day. In addition, vaccination against a number of the causative bacterial pathogens is now recommended and even completely covered by health insurance companies. Especially children and persons over 60 years of age should be protected by vaccination against pneumococcus and Haemophilus influenza.
Prognosis
With prompt diagnosis and rapidly initiated treatment, the prognosis for tonsillitis is extremely good. As a rule, virally induced forms of the disease heal completely within one to two weeks. Bacterial tonsillitis usually disappears completely within one week in most cases when treated with antibiotics.
