Tonsils are small tissues located at the back of the throat. These tissues protect the body from bacteria and viruses that tend to make their way from the mouth. Tonsils trap such bacteria but excessive exposure to bacteria can infect these very tissues. Infected tonsils are medically known as tonsillitis. The infection causes inflammation, irritation and swelling in the tissues. Common symptoms associated with tonsillitis are a sore throat, swollen tissues, difficulty in swallowing, fever, redness of tonsils, inflammation of the lymph nodes, white spots on tonsils and change in voice. The white spots on your tonsils should be most possibly the onset of tonsillitis. White spots on tonsils could also be tonsil stones or tonsilloliths. Tonsil stones are caused due to food particles that are lodged in crypts on the tonsil surface. Mucus covers the lodged particles later solidifying its state leading to hardened white stones on the tonsils. Surgery is recommended to smooth the crevices in which food particles can be stuck or to remove the tonsils. But surgery is advisable only in extreme cases.
There are various home remedies that can help soothe the tonsils. Gargling with salt water first thing in the morning is a proven home remedy to treat the tonsils and also helps reduce infection and inflammation. Removing the white spots with a cotton swab is also recommended. The solidified food and mucus can cause halitosis or bad breath. A gargle of lemon juice or concentrate made by boiling fenugreek seeds in water is also advisable to treat tonsillitis.
Drinking plenty of liquids is an ideal way to stay hydrated without affecting the tonsillitis. Herbal teas, fresh fruit and vegetable juices are ideal liquids that can help rejuvenate your system and help heal the tonsillitis faster. Avoid the intake of solids or any kind of foods that aggravate or cause irritation. Substitute regular solid meals with softer foods such as soups, porridges and juices. It is advisable to avoid smoking to reduce irritation to the tonsils.
It is important to note that tonsillitis is contagious and infection causing bacteria or virus can be passed from one person to another by coughing, sneezing or using infected accessories. It is advisable to wash the hands frequently to avoid passage of infection. Similarly, avoiding the use of personal accessories, toiletries or utensils of the person suffering tonsillitis is recommended. You should also ensure that you use a fresh toothbrush after the tonsil condition improves. Rest and appropriate care should help resolve the tonsillitis in a short span of time.