Tonsillitis

Tonsillitis refers to the inflammation of the tonsils which are the two lymph nodes at the back of the throat. The tonsils play an important role in helping the body in fighting viruses and bacteria. Acute tonsillitis is caused by viral or bacterial infections. Common symptoms include sudden inset sore throat, fever or bad breath. The surface of the tonsils is usually bright red or covered with greyish coating and the lymph nodes in the neck may be swollen. Chronic tonsillitis is a recurring and persistent inflammation of the tonsils, characterized by the formation of stones in the tonsils. Symptoms include persistent sore throat, foul breath, snoring, disturbed sleep patterns, or enlarged tonsils.

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In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the reason for this disease is the zang and fu yin materiel going lower than the yang energy and becoming virtual heat. This environment is very hard on the throat and increase the chances for an infection. TCM is very effective in controlling the infection, but early treatment is more effective in absorbing infections, reducing the swelling and relieving pain in 60-80% of the cases. At a later phase of the disease, where general inflammation occurs, tonsillectomy should be considered as the best treatment.

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Generally treated with antibiotics, some people prefer using herbal remedies for tonsillitis, which may reduce symptoms and speed recovery. Acupuncture is very effective in treating tonsillitis!