As a parent, it’s an instinct to want to protect my children from every harm. From scraped knees to the common cold, I am always on the lookout for ways to keep them safe and healthy.
And one of the most common ailments among children that I pay close attention to is tonsillitis.
This is because I’ve had this condition since I was a child, and it’s excruciatingly painful!
So, when my kids experienced the same form of infection, it was really hard to see them suffering.
That’s why I just had to keep some remedies on hand to make my kids feel better when tonsillitis strikes.
To help parents out there to also protect their children when infected with tonsillitis, I’m sharing an overview of the condition, as well as eight remedies that can help treat it.
What Is Tonsillitis in Children?
According to Mayo Clinic, tonsillitis is a condition in which the tonsils, two oval-shaped pads of tissue located on either side of the back of the throat, become swollen and inflamed.
Signs and symptoms of tonsillitis include:
- swollen tonsils,
- sore throat,
- difficulty swallowing, and
- tender lymph nodes on the sides of the neck.
The condition is most common in children, although it can affect people of all ages. It’s usually caused by a virus, but it can also be caused by bacteria
In some cases, a child may also have a cough or runny nose. If the tonsillitis is caused by a bacterial infection, the child may also have white patches on the tonsils.
If your kids have any of the symptoms of tonsillitis, it’s important to consult a doctor who will diagnose the condition and recommend the appropriate treatment.
Treatment may include antibiotics if the tonsillitis is caused by a bacterial infection, or over-the-counter medications to relieve the symptoms.
In addition to medical treatment, I discovered a variety of home remedies that can help treat tonsillitis in children, including:
Gargle With Warm Salt Water
Every time I get tonsillitis, this works like a charm, and it’s the first thing I tell my kids to do as well.
Gargling with warm salt water can help to relieve inflammation and irritation.
To create the solution, mix a teaspoon of salt with a cup of warm water.
Have the child lean over a sink and tilt their head back, then have them gargle the solution for several minutes, being careful to not swallow any of the water.
Salt water can help to reduce the swelling in the throat, which can lead to relief from the pain and discomfort.
Furthermore, gargling with warm salt water can help to remove bacteria from the throat. This should help to reduce the infection and speed up recovery.
Drink Warm Liquids to Soothe Tonsillitis
Warm liquids, such as soup or tea, can ease pain and discomfort while also soothing the throat and reducing swelling.
Tea is a great option because it contains antioxidants, which can help boost the immune system and fight off infection. It also contains compounds that may reduce inflammation and provide relief from a sore throat.
Herbal teas, such as chamomile or peppermint, are very helpful in reducing inflammation and soothing the throat.
Soup is another great liquid option to boost the immune system and fight off the infection in kids.
Warm soups can reduce swelling, provide relief from pain and discomfort, and keep kids hydrated.
Whichever you choose, make sure the liquids aren’t overly hot, as this might irritate the throat and worsen the symptoms.
Get Plenty of Rest
Allowing children with tonsillitis to get enough rest is crucial for their bodies to fight off the infection and heal.
When a child is resting, the body focuses its energy on healing instead of being active. Resting can therefore aid in reducing tonsillitis symptoms.
At the same time, monitor your kids’ temperature while they are sleeping to ensure that it does not get too high.
Eat Cold Foods
Eating cold foods, such as ice cream, popsicles, yogurt, and smoothies may relieve a sore throat and minimise swelling.
They also alleviate the pain and suffering associated with tonsillitis, as well as reduce inflammation and mucus production.
However, keep in mind that cold food should be consumed in moderation and that eating too much may worsen the infection.
Avoid Spicy Foods That Worsen Tonsillitis
When it comes to treating tonsillitis in children, one of the best things parents can do is to avoid spicy foods.
Spicy foods can aggravate tonsillitis and can cause the throat to become dry and irritated, making it difficult for kids to swallow.
Instead, focus on providing them with foods that are easier to swallow, such as soft fruits and vegetables, soups, and smoothies.
Additionally, encourage kids to drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep their throats hydrated and help reduce the symptoms of tonsillitis.
Use a Humidifier
Humidifiers help to reduce the swelling of the tonsils by providing moisture to the air and creating a humid environment.
This helps to minimise tonsil inflammation, which helps to alleviate symptoms such as sore throat, trouble swallowing, and hoarseness.
When using a humidifier to treat tonsillitis in children, make sure it is in a safe area that is away from any potential hazards.
Also, clean the humidifier regularly to avoid the accumulation of bacteria and other contaminants. The humidifier’s water should also be replaced regularly.
Use a Throat Spray
Throat sprays often contain anti–inflammatory ingredients, such as lidocaine or benzocaine, which can help reduce the pain, as well as antiseptic ingredients, such as menthol, which can help fight the infection.
When using a throat spray to treat tonsillitis in children, be sure to carefully follow the directions provided on the packaging.
The amount and frequency of spraying should be adjusted according to the child’s age and weight. It’s also worth noting that throat sprays should not be used on children under the age of two.
Neti Pot to Clear Tonsillitis-Causing Sinuses
Neti pots are a simple, non-invasive way to help clear the airways of mucus and bacteria, which can help reduce inflammation and consequently, the pain and discomfort associated with tonsillitis.
They are normally filled with a saline solution, which is made with a mixture of salt and water. This solution helps to dissolve and flush out the bacteria and other particles that might cause tonsil inflammation and infection.
When using a neti pot to treat tonsillitis in children, make sure the saline solution is at room temperature and not excessively hot or cold, as this may cause discomfort.
Carefully read the instructions for use. When using a neti pot, the saline solution is put into one nostril and allowed to flow out the other. The process should be repeated several times a day for each nostril.
It is essential to consider your child’s age before using a neti pot. The FDA and the majority of experts agree that children aged two and up can use the device safely with the consent of a paediatrician.
Give Your Tonsilitis-Infected Child the Best Care Possible
Tonsillitis is a common condition in children, but it is treatable with the right medications and home remedies.
You can ensure that your children receive the best care possible by recognising the signs and symptoms of tonsillitis and implementing preventative measures.
The eight home remedies listed above can help children with tonsillitis feel better and recover more quickly.
If your kids are only coughing, there are DIY cough remedies that you can try instead.
Whatever the circumstances, as a parent, you will always do what is best for your child’s health and well-being.
Believe in yourself, mummies!
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as medical advice from Motherhood. For any health-related concerns, it is advisable to consult with a qualified healthcare professional or medical practitioner.
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