Mr. Lee, a 47-year-old accountant, often suffers from tonsil inflammation after a winter cold. Most recently, after experiencing the initial flu symptoms, such as chills and a sore throat, he quickly developed severe tonsil inflammation.
His throat was extremely red and swollen, and he had unbearable pain when swallowing, and he had difficulty even speaking. Mr. Lee's symptoms also included persistent high fever and severe headaches that could not be relieved by conventional medications.
As a result, he had to take time off work at home, which not only affected his daily work, but also seriously affected his quality of life.
Why does a cold cause inflammation of the tonsils?
Viral infections: Colds are usually caused by viruses, such as the flu virus and coronavirus, which first invade the upper part of the respiratory tract, especially the throat.
The tonsils are important lymphatic tissues at the back of the throat, and their main function is to help the body fight off invading pathogens.
When the virus invades, the tonsils respond to infection by enlarging and becoming inflamed, which is the body's natural response to trying to stop the virus from spreading further.
Bacterial infection: Although inflammation of the tonsils is usually associated with a viral infection, sometimes the tonsils may become more susceptible to bacterial infections after a viral infection, in which case the inflammation of the tonsils after a cold can become bacterial tonsillitis.
Immune response: When a cold occurs, the immune system is activated to fight viruses, and the tonsils, as part of the immune system, also reactively enhance their immune activity, sometimes in the form of inflammation and swelling.
Who is susceptible to tonsil inflammation?
Children and adolescents: Minors have larger, more active tonsil tissue than adults, and are more susceptible to infection and tonsillitis.
Weak immunity: People with weakened immune systems, such as the elderly and some people with chronic diseases, are more likely to develop tonsil inflammation once they catch a cold.
Smoking and alcohol abuse: Smokers and alcoholics are more prone to inflammation because both tobacco and alcohol can irritate and damage the throat and tonsils.
Environmental factors: People who live in areas with poor air quality or extreme climates, such as perennial smog or cold, dry environments, may be at increased risk of tonsil inflammation due to airborne pollutants and low humidity that irritate the respiratory tract.
How to prevent tonsil inflammation?
Boost immunity: Eat a balanced diet and ensure adequate intake of vitamins and minerals, especially vitamin C, vitamin E, and zinc. You can eat more citrus fruits, green leafy vegetables and nuts to strengthen your immune system.
Personal hygiene: Wash your hands frequently, avoid close contact with people with colds or other respiratory illnesses, and avoid touching your face, especially your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
Proper rest: Get enough sleep, adequate rest can help maintain the function of the immune system and reduce the risk of disease.
Quit smoking: Tobacco contains harmful chemicals that directly irritate the throat and tonsils, and quitting smoking can help prevent tonsil inflammation.
Maintain indoor humidity: During the dry season, use a humidifier to prevent the air from getting too dry, keep your throat and tonsils moist, and reduce the risk of viruses and bacteria.
Avoid overusing your voice: Prolonged or loud speaking can irritate the throat and tonsils, increasing the risk of inflammation. During the cold season, try to minimize these activities and protect your vocal cords and throat.
Dress appropriately: Clothing appropriately in cold weather, especially to protect the neck and throat, can avoid direct irritation of the respiratory tract by cold air and reduce the chance of tonsil inflammation.