Sore Throats & Tonsillitis

Sore throats in children are common. Most of the time, these are caused by viruses and treated with painkillers until the infection resolves. However, tonsillitis, caused by bacteria, can be disabling and effect a child’s ability to eat, drink, learn and play. Sometimes, children experience repeated episodes of tonsillitis and this has consequences for their school attendance, ability to interact with their friends, engage in sports and has consequences for their family.

There comes a time when it is clear that the situation is not improving. The only way to stop repeated tonsillitis is to have a tonsillectomy (see tonsillectomy). There are strict rules regarding who can and who cannot have their tonsils removed in the public health system in the UK and these rules are based on studies performed some time ago. It is recognised that these rules are overly strict and many children are not allowed to have a tonsillectomy that may be of help to them. For further information see two articles I have written.