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Symptoms of purulent tonsillitis in children with photos and methods of treatment at home. How acute tonsillitis manifests itself in children and how to treat it How to treat purulent tonsillitis in children

Angina in its various forms affects patients of any age. The disease in its purulent form is more common in children and, in order to avoid the development of dangerous complications, requires timely and correct treatment. What is purulent sore throat? Why does it occur? What symptoms indicate the development of a pathological process? How long is the incubation period? How to treat and prevent the disease? Let's figure it out together.

Description of purulent sore throat

Sore throat in adults and children can occur in different forms. One of the most dangerous types of the disease is purulent tonsillitis. It is characterized by an extremely severe course, is dangerous for the development of serious complications and can become chronic.

It is important to remember that pus, clearly visible on the surface of the tonsils, is a symptom of the disease (it consists of waste products of pathogenic microorganisms, dead and a small amount of living bacteria), and not its cause. Therefore, the main therapeutic measures should be aimed at eliminating pathogenic microorganisms that provoked the disease, and not at removing pus.

Causes of the disease in children

Purulent tonsillitis in children occurs due to the active proliferation of pathogenic bacteria. The disease is transmitted by airborne droplets, in addition, pathogens can enter the child’s tonsils with food during meals.

Causes of purulent sore throat in children:

  • frequent inflammatory diseases in the oral and nasal cavities, as well as in the sinuses;
  • reduced immunity;
  • overwork (both emotional and physical);
  • unbalanced or poor diet;
  • excess ultraviolet radiation;
  • intoxication of the body of various etiologies;
  • the child’s stay in conditions of constant dampness;
  • living in areas with poor ecology (near industrial enterprises, highways, etc.);
  • hypothermia - local or general;
  • viral infections - adenovirus, influenza or parainfluenza viruses.

What does a sore throat look like: types and symptoms


It is almost impossible not to notice the signs of purulent tonsillitis in a child, since the disease is characterized by a very clear and specific clinical picture. Symptoms appear sharply, suddenly and develop quickly. A sharp rise in body temperature is often observed just a few hours after the first signs of the disease appear. You can see what the main external manifestations of the disease look like in the photo accompanying the article.

The most common symptoms of purulent tonsillitis:

  • enlarged lymph nodes, including submandibular ones;
  • enlarged tonsils - they are clearly visible in the mouth, become bright red, covered with a layer of purulent plaque;
  • feverish conditions;
  • cold sweat;
  • pale skin;
  • strong fever (up to 40 degrees) – the temperature does not increase in chronic forms of the disease;
  • sudden deterioration in general condition;
  • headache;
  • sleep disorders;
  • poor appetite, refusal to eat;
  • severe pain when swallowing, which can radiate to the ear.


There are several types of the disease, and it is important for the doctor to determine exactly which type of disease has developed in the child. This is required for the correct selection of treatment strategy. It should be borne in mind that the least dangerous type of purulent sore throat can develop into a more serious one over time, and in the absence of adequate treatment there is a risk of complications.

The main types of purulent sore throat:

  1. Phlegmonous is the most dangerous form, characterized by the “melting” of the tonsils under the influence of purulent formations, affects nearby soft tissues, sometimes the lymph nodes under the lower jaw, and requires urgent hospitalization.
  2. Lacunar is the least painful type of the disease, which is why it often develops into a chronic form; pus accumulates in the lacunae of the tonsils.
  3. Follicular - characterized by swelling of the throat, intense pain that spreads to the ear area; advanced disease can lead to the penetration of pathogenic microorganisms into the blood. You can see what the external symptoms of the disease look like in the follicular form in the photo accompanying the article.

How long is the incubation period?

Depending on the individual characteristics of the little patient’s body, as well as on the current state of his immunity, the incubation period will differ for different children. In some cases, the disease develops very quickly, and the incubation period takes only 12 hours, but sometimes it can stretch up to 3 days.

Diagnostic methods

In children, purulent tonsillitis is always severe, and parents strive to quickly alleviate the child’s condition. However, before starting treatment, you need to make a correct diagnosis. To do this, you need to contact an otolaryngologist and therapist so that specialists can conduct an examination, differentiate the pathology from ARVI and ordinary sore throat, and also determine the type of disease.

The following diagnostic measures are usually required:

  • collecting anamnesis of the disease, interviewing, clarifying the patient’s complaints;
  • laboratory tests of a smear of pus from the tonsils;
  • pharyngoscopy examination;
  • general blood analysis;
  • general urine analysis.

Features of treatment

What to do if the doctor diagnoses purulent tonsillitis? Under no circumstances should you treat the disease yourself. The fact is that the pathological process in question requires mandatory antibacterial therapy. Thus, to cure the disease, it is necessary to take antibiotics.


Only a doctor can determine which drug is needed in a particular case based on the analyzes of the biological material. It is important to remember that even if the child has previously suffered from a purulent sore throat, the same medications cannot be used, since the disease may be caused by another microorganism.

Drug therapy

Parents should be prepared for the fact that even with intensive drug therapy, including antibiotics, treatment of purulent sore throat will take a lot of time (more details in the article:). The minimum duration of the therapeutic course is one week. Depending on the severity of the disease, treatment may take more than 2 weeks.

It is important to remember that you cannot stop taking antibacterial drugs without permission, without a doctor’s recommendation, even if the child looks healthy. A few days after the start of therapy, the baby’s condition improves - the fever disappears, appetite appears, but live bacteria are still present in his body. If you stop taking the antibiotic, they will not die, but will become resistant to the drug, and the next time the drug will not be effective.

Treatment of purulent tonsillitis is not limited to taking antibiotics. The doctor will also prescribe gargles - the child will need to gargle frequently, 5-6 times during the day. Up to three years of age, it is recommended to replace rinsing with lozenges, since most children at this age do not yet know how to rinse, and there is a risk of swallowing the drug.


One of the symptoms of the disease is high fever, which requires taking antipyretics (antipyretics). When prescribing medications, the patient's age must be taken into account. For infants under 1 year of age, antipyretic drugs are administered in the form of suppositories; for preschool children aged 2, 3, 4 years, they are given in the form of a sweet syrup or suspension; children over 4-5 years of age can take tablets.

AntibioticsRinses SpraysFor resorption Antipyretics
Amoxicillin group: Augmentin, Femoclav, Amoxiclav Furacilin solution StopanginStrepfenIbuprofen
Macrolides: Macropen, Azitrox, Sumamed StomatophyteKametonGrammidinPanadol
Polypeptides: Bioparox IodinolHexoralStrepsilsNimesulide
Sulfonamides: Bactrim, Biseptol (we recommend reading:) Hydrogen peroxide Lugol (we recommend reading:) FaringoseptNurofen
Cephalosporins: Pancef, Suprax, Ceftriaxone Boric acid solution ChlorophylliptSeptolete
RotokanMiramistin

Folk remedies

The use of traditional medicine as an element of complex therapy for purulent sore throat at home is not prohibited. However, before using any home recipes to treat your child, you should definitely consult a specialist.

The most harmless and useful rinse at first glance or a “time-tested” decoction can slow down the healing process and harm the health of a small patient. In consultation with an otolaryngologist and therapist, it is permissible to use the following folk remedies:

  • honey-ginger tea;
  • lemon-honey tea;
  • rinsing with a decoction of chamomile, eucalyptus and calendula;
  • rinsing with a solution of beet juice mixed with vinegar.

Honey-ginger tea is an excellent helper in the fight against sore throat in a child.

Separately, folk “recipes” should be mentioned, which are strictly contraindicated in the treatment of purulent tonsillitis in a child, as they can lead to a worsening of the patient’s condition. First of all, ulcers should not be removed from the tonsils mechanically. This is very painful and absolutely useless, since they break out on their own after a few days. For childhood sore throat, the following drugs are prohibited:

  1. warming up and warming compresses - heat helps to intensify the proliferation of pathogenic bacteria that provoke sore throat;
  2. inhalations - steam procedures help to warm up the tonsils (this is harmful for purulent tonsillitis), while nebulizer and compressor procedures are simply useless, since medicinal mixtures do not tend to settle on the tonsils;
  3. alcohol tinctures, kerosene, citric acid are ineffective and can cause burns to the tonsils.

Possible complications

In young patients aged 2-3 years, the risk of developing complications of purulent tonsillitis is much higher than in adults.

Experts warn that if you do not start treatment for the disease within 8 days from the moment the first signs appear, the likelihood of dangerous complications that can lead to disability and even death increases sharply.

Purulent tonsillitis in children often becomes chronic. The most common complications of the disease:

  • chronic tonsillitis, whose symptoms are similar to purulent tonsillitis in the follicular form, often leads to the removal of the tonsils (we recommend reading:);
  • glomerulonephritis, which in some cases provokes chronic renal failure;
  • when bacteria enter the circulatory system, they can affect internal organs and lead to the development of sepsis, which is life-threatening for the patient;
  • rheumatic fever in acute form - accompanied by constant pain in the heart, leading to the development of heart failure;
  • otitis media - accompanied by severe headaches, often leading to hearing impairment and even complete deafness;
  • abscess of the throat or pharynx - in most cases, treatment of this pathology requires surgical intervention.

Prevention


The immunity of a small child is constantly exposed to “attacks” from pathogenic microorganisms. Viruses are especially active during the cold season, so parents need to pay increased attention to preventive measures during this “cold” season. These preventative measures include:

  1. preventive courses of taking immunomodulatory drugs - the standard course involves taking 1 tablet per day for 10 days; a pediatrician can recommend an effective immunostimulant;
  2. avoiding hypothermia of the feet;
  3. hardening - regular gargling helps strengthen the throat, while the temperature of the liquid should gradually decrease;
  4. preventive rinsing with calendula decoction, furatsilin solution or sea salt.

Hello dear readers. Today we will talk about what purulent sore throat looks like in children. This disease is characterized by an acute course, the state of health deteriorates sharply, and, as a rule, is accompanied by serious intoxication. A purulent plaque forms on the surface of the tonsils. In this article you will learn what are the signs of a purulent form of tonsillitis, what provokes the development of this disease, how it is diagnosed and treated. We will also talk about possible complications after an illness and methods of prevention.

Photo of purulent sore throat

Types of purulent sore throat

There are two variants of this disease:

  1. Lacunar tonsillitis. It is characterized by the following features:
  • damage to lacunae;
  • hyperemia and swelling of the tonsils;
  • localized inflammation, exclusively in the area where the tonsils are located;
  • purulent plaque on the surface of the tonsils, which can be easily removed during treatment.
  1. Follicular tonsillitis. Characteristic is:
  • damage to the follicles, quite deep;
  • obvious redness and severe swelling of the mucous membrane;
  • the formation of purulent plaque that cannot be removed during treatment;
  • high risk of fusion of pustules into an abscess.

Causes of the disease

The source of infection is hemolytic staphylococcus or streptococcus.

Pathogens of purulent sore throat can be transmitted through the air or through close contact.

Microorganisms can also move from one organ to another. For example, bacteria multiply in a child due to tooth decay or inflamed gums; they can easily spread to the tonsils.

There are a number of factors that increase the risk of the disease:

  • hypothermia;
  • mechanical injury to the tonsils;
  • weakened immune system;
  • poor environmental situation.

Symptoms

This disease most often affects children aged 3 years and older. This is due to attending a preschool and not having a strong immune system at that age. Characteristic signs of purulent tonsillitis are:

  1. Severe increase in temperature. Perhaps up to 40 degrees.
  2. Pain in muscles and joints.
  3. The occurrence of severe weakness.
  4. Headache.
  5. Painful sensations in the throat, difficulty swallowing food, dry mouth.
  6. An increase in the size of the lymph nodes located on the front side of the neck. On palpation they are sensitive and painful.
  7. Unpleasant odor and taste in the mouth.
  8. The appearance of tachycardia and rapid breathing.
  9. Painful sensations in the heart.
  10. With purulent tonsillitis, white or yellowish pustules are observed on the tonsils.

As a rule, all symptoms appear simultaneously. Hyperthermia is observed within a couple of hours after infection. However, due to the individual characteristics of the body, a different picture of the course of the disease is possible.

The same applies to the incubation period. For one child it will last a day, for another up to five days.

Diagnosis of the disease

The first thing the doctor will do is examine the child’s throat and collect data on his condition. In order to determine the form of sore throat and not confuse it with another viral disease, it is necessary to conduct a number of studies:

  1. Clinical blood test.
  2. Pharyngoscopy.
  3. A smear of plaque on the tonsils. This is done to carry out the following analyses:
  • determination of the type of microorganism, its sensitivity to various antibiotics;
  • Conducting express tests to detect beta-hemolytic streptococcus;
  • PCR to determine the type of microorganism.

How to treat purulent sore throat in a child

The fight against this disease includes a whole range of medications and proper care for the baby. Parents should understand that this pathology cannot be treated without the use of antibiotics. Therefore, it is not surprising that probiotics are prescribed along with them.

What set of measures is necessary for purulent sore throat in a child:

  1. Taking antibiotics. This drug will be prescribed even to a child under one year old. This is due to the fact that there is nothing more to combat the bacterial process. The child may be prescribed Amoxiclav, Augmentin, Ecoclave. Less commonly prescribed are Ceftriaxone and Azithromycin. As a rule, the course of antibiotic treatment is at least five days. A local antibiotic, for example Bioparox, may also be prescribed.
  2. Immunomodulators, for example, Imudon or Immunal.
  3. In case of high temperature, Nurofen or Paracetamol, Mefenamic acid will be prescribed. Infants are prescribed medications in the form of rectal suppositories.
  4. Antihistamines, for example, Suprastin, Claritin, Fenistil.
  5. According to indications, glucocorticoids may be prescribed, for example, Hydrocortisone or Dexamethasone.
  6. If severe intoxication of the body is detected, the child will be hospitalized, he will be given a drip with a glucose solution, as well as saline and rheosorbilact.
  7. As a local effect use:
  • rinse solution, for example, Chlorhexidine, Miramistin or Furacilin;
  • antiseptics in the form of sprays, for example Chlorophyllipt, Ingalipt or Orasept;
  • resorption plates, for example, Septefril or Trachisan.

A child of 2 years old may still not be able to gargle properly. Because of this, not only the therapeutic effect is not achieved, but also harm is caused due to ingestion of the medicinal solution. Such babies are prescribed lozenges for sucking.

When my son was 8 years old, we encountered purulent tonsillitis, namely lacunar tonsillitis. Even during the day we were on the beach, nothing foreshadowed trouble. And in the evening the child’s temperature rose to 39, and his throat began to hurt. In the morning I discovered a purulent plaque on my tonsils. The temperature remained stable and was practically not brought down by the tablets. An ambulance was called. The diagnosis was made - lacunar tonsillitis. We were immediately hospitalized in the infectious diseases department. We stayed there for at least a week. Nikita was immediately given an eye drop, and due to severe intoxication, the acetone in his urine increased, which is why the diet for a sore throat became even stricter. They gave me antibiotic injections and it hurt. In addition, a whole range of medications was prescribed, including antihistamines, gargling with Chlorhexidine (alternately with Furacilin), Lugol throat treatment, antiseptic lozenges and Ingalipt. Fortunately, on the third day, my son’s condition improved significantly, and his temperature no longer exceeded 37.2. When Nikita made a full recovery, we were discharged.

Traditional methods of treatment

Such methods are permissible, however, only with the permission of the treating doctor and as an additional treatment to the main set of medications.

  1. Tea rose decoction. One tablespoon requires a glass of water. Bring to a boil, infuse for an hour. Gargle up to four times a day.
  2. Boil the beets until completely soft. The finished broth is filtered after cooling. Gargle the throat.
  3. Iodine (five drops) is added to half a liter of a weak solution of potassium permanganate, everything is thoroughly mixed and used to gargle.
  4. Gargling with a solution of sea salt (put a teaspoon in a glass of warm water).

The child is one year old and has a purulent sore throat.

In cases where a one-year-old baby is diagnosed with a purulent form of sore throat, mandatory doctor supervision and full compliance with all his recommendations are required. Do not forget that children at this age do not yet have a strong enough immune system.

Treatment of such a disease in a one-year-old baby includes:

  1. Taking antibiotics, which are prescribed in the form of a syrup or suspension, but most often in the form of injections, especially if the baby is in the hospital.
  2. If a toddler’s temperature rises and his health sharply worsens, then an antipyretic can be given even at 37.6 degrees. Children at this age are prescribed drugs based on paracetamol or ibuprofen, in the form of rectal suppositories or syrup.
  3. One-year-old babies will not be able to dissolve tablets; they should not irrigate their throats with a spray. In this case, the only effective and acceptable method is to treat the tonsils with Lugol's solution, which is applied to a bandage wrapped around the mother's finger. It is necessary to carefully wipe the area where pus accumulates.

Proper care

During the period of illness, the child needs care. This will not only ease his condition, but will also speed up his recovery.

  1. Make sure that the baby is isolated from other family members, especially children. Provide him with his own utensils.
  2. Strict bed rest is important.
  3. Maintaining a proper diet.
  4. Drink plenty of fluids, always warm drinks.
  5. Vitamin therapy.
  6. Ventilation of the room and regular wet cleaning.

Diet for purulent sore throat

It is very important to follow the rules of nutrition during illness. So, what is a diet for a child when he is sick:

  1. During the period of exacerbation of the disease, liquid, crushed dishes are allowed, for example, oatmeal, fruit or vegetable puree, freshly brewed chicken broth.
  2. Fermented milk products with a low fat content, such as cottage cheese or yogurt.
  3. Lean meat and boiled fish are allowed.
  4. Feed your baby boiled or baked vegetables. The child will happily eat a baked apple.
  1. Eating wholemeal bread.
  2. Unground porridge, especially pearl barley and corn.
  3. Salad made from fresh vegetables, especially those with coarse fibers, such as carrots, radishes or cabbage.
  4. Citrus fruits and fruits with a high acid content, such as plums, apples or pears. When consuming such products, the baby feels severe pain due to the action of acids and mechanical irritation of the tonsils.
  5. Fatty foods or meat, fish, dairy products with a high percentage of fat content.
  6. Spicy, fried, pickled or salty dishes.
  7. Sweets in any form.

However, it is worth understanding that such a diet is typical for the period of exacerbation of the disease, that is, in the first days of the disease. After a few days, when the child’s well-being begins to clearly improve, it will be possible to return to the usual type of nutrition.

You must understand that if you are sick, it makes no sense to force your child to eat. The baby's body knows what it needs. And, if you try to force feed, then disturbances in the functioning of the digestive system may develop. And, consequently, the addition of new symptoms, for example, vomiting or diarrhea.

Complications

If treatment was started at the wrong time or was complicated by chronic illnesses during the course of the disease, then there is a possible risk of complications. There are early and late consequences of angina.

The early ones include:

  1. Diseases of other ENT organs, in particular the occurrence of sinusitis and otitis media.
  2. Peritonsillar abscess.
  3. Purulent lymphadenitis. If such a complication occurs, emergency medical attention is required. If you consult a doctor in a timely manner, it can be treated and has no consequences for the body.

The later ones include:

  1. Rheumatism of the heart.
  2. Arthritis.
  3. Poststreptococcal glomerulonephritis.

Such pathologies require long-term and quite complex treatment. One hundred percent recovery occurs very rarely. There are cases where these complications led to the development of disability.

Preventive actions

  1. Proper balanced nutrition.
  2. Sound and healthy sleep.
  3. Active lifestyle.
  4. Correct daily routine.
  5. Timely diagnosis of diseases and initiation of adequate treatment.
  6. Procedures to strengthen the immune system.

Now you know what purulent tonsillitis in children is. After reading this article, you learned what exactly causes the development of bacterial sore throat, and what treatment a sick child needs. Remember, it is always easier to prevent a disease than to fight its course and possible complications. Follow the rules of prevention and be healthy!

283 10/03/2019 7 min.

Purulent tonsillitis is a fairly common childhood disease. The medical name for this disease is tonsillitis. Purulent tonsillitis is characterized by the appearance of purulent plaque on the tonsils. Many of us had a sore throat in our childhood and know how unpleasant it is. If the disease is not cured completely, it will become chronic and will torment for many years. How to rid a child of purulent sore throat forever?

Definition of disease

A sore throat is diagnosed by a doctor when there is inflammation of the tissues of the tonsils, the lymphoid organs located in the oropharynx. There are several forms of tonsillitis (,), which are stages of one pathological process. Purulent sore throat in children causes severe intoxication, since the child’s body is difficult to tolerate bacterial infections. Treatment of angina must begin as early as possible to avoid both local and systemic complications.

Mostly children of preschool age and adults 35-40 years old suffer from sore throat. In older people, sore throat is rare. This inflammatory process of the palate () and tonsils can be provoked by various microbes. The disease is considered contagious and is transmitted by contact (through dishes, hygiene items, unwashed fruits) and by airborne droplets.

Causes

Various factors can trigger inflammation of the tonsils:

  • Lots of dust in the room;
  • Smoking;
  • Previous injuries to the tonsils;
  • Prolonged hypothermia;
  • Weak immunity.

It has been established that the outbreak of the disease in children occurs during periods of cold spring and damp, rainy autumn. Often a sore throat is a kind of consequence of impaired blood circulation in the capillaries, as a result of which the tissues of the human body begin to lack nutrients.

About 15% of children suffer from tonsillitis in its various manifestations.

Symptoms

The main symptoms of purulent tonsillitis in children:

  • Increase in body temperature up to 40ºС;
  • Appearance of weakness, lethargy;
  • Pain in joints, muscles, in the heart area, headache;
  • The occurrence of dry mouth;
  • Difficulty swallowing and eating;
  • Inflammation and enlargement of the lymph nodes of the lower jaw;
  • Unpleasant odor and taste in the mouth;
  • The presence of gray and white spots in the oropharynx;
  • Increased heart rate and breathing.

Manifestations of sore throat are observed already by the seventh day after the bacteria enters the body. However, symptoms appear much faster if the child has a weakened immune system.

Bacteria multiply rapidly with sore throat, so it is very important to follow the treatment prescribed by the doctor and follow all his instructions, otherwise the consequences can be serious.

Possible complications

Don't be afraid of a purulent sore throat. The main thing is to identify the disease in time (and only a doctor can do this) and begin treatment. However, it is worth noting that the consequences of this disease are quite dangerous. The heart system is the first to suffer from complications caused by tonsillitis, since microbes that provoke sore throat enter the heart muscle along with the blood. At the first stage, they form an inflammatory center there, which can worsen after a few months with rheumatic myocarditis. In the future, rheumatic heart disease may develop.

The list of complications from untreated or incorrectly treated sore throat also includes the following diseases:

  • Otitis;
  • Enlarged lymph nodes;
  • Blood poisoning;
  • Kidney diseases.

Acute paratonsillitis is considered a common complication of purulent tonsillitis. The causes of the pathology can be severe hypothermia of the child at the onset of the disease, as well as disturbance of rest and bed rest, and unauthorized cessation of taking medications. Such complications require mandatory surgical intervention.

There is another dangerous complication of purulent tonsillitis - a retropharyngeal abscess, which is very common among children. In a child who has had a sore throat, pus begins to accumulate in the lymph nodes near the throat. At the same time, it hurts him to swallow, there is a cough and a sudden increase in body temperature. All this is fraught with suffocation, since swollen lymph nodes block the laryngeal passage and prevent normal breathing. In this case, surgical intervention is vital.

Treatment

Purulent tonsillitis requires an integrated approach to treatment in both children and adults. First of all, you need to maintain bed rest, since any stress can prolong the path to recovery.

You need to drink a lot of fluids. Warm tea, juices, fruit drinks, meat broths, and milk are suitable. Drinking plenty of fluids reduces intoxication and prevents dehydration caused by high temperatures.

For purulent sore throat, it is advisable to prescribe a gentle diet to the child: only soft, easily digestible food that does not irritate the throat is served. You should not consume hot, cold, spicy, too salty, smoked food. For children, dishes made from dairy products, vegetables, and cereals are preferred.

By medication

Treatment of sore throat necessarily includes taking medications, which will help overcome the symptoms of the disease and destroy the pathogen.

If the causative agent of purulent sore throat is bacteria, then it is mandatory (even for newborns). Up to 18 years of age, for angina, drugs from the following groups are usually prescribed:

  • Penicillins (Amoxiclav, Ampiox, Ampicillin, Augmentin);
  • Macrolides (Sumamed, Azitsin, Clarithromycin);
  • Cephalosporins (Cefuroxime, Cephalexin, Cefotiam, Cefazolin).

Babies will not be able to swallow a tablet or capsule, so they are given drugs in the form of syrup, suspension or drops. Among antipyretics, drugs based on and (Efferalgan, Nurofen, Paracetamol) are allowed for children at any age. For children under 3 years of age, they are available in the form of syrups and suppositories.

To treat purulent sore throat, local remedies are also necessarily used:

  • Lozenges with antiseptic (Decatylene, Faringosept, Trachisan, Septolete, Strepsils);
  • Sprays for irrigating the throat (Yox, Stopangin, Givalex, Aqua Maris);
  • Rinse products (Furacilin solution, Stomatidin).

Treatment of infants under 1 year of age is based on the same principles. The antibiotic is given depending on the baby’s weight using special measuring spoons or dosage syringes. At the same time, the child should receive probiotics to restore microflora (Simbivit, Simbiter, Lactobacterin).

Antipyretic drugs should be given to infants at a temperature of 38º C and above in the form of suppositories or syrups.

Sprays, rinses and tablets are not suitable for babies. You can lubricate your throat with Lugol's or Furacilin solution by wrapping a little gauze around your finger.

There are a number of drugs that pediatricians prescribe for the treatment of purulent tonsillitis in children as additional and auxiliary agents. It can be:

  • Antihistamines to relieve swelling, prevent allergic reactions, reduce symptoms of the disease (Zyrtec, Suprastin);
  • Vitamins and restoratives to increase the body's resistance (Alphabet, Vitrum, Supradin);
  • Probiotics and prebiotics to eliminate side effects from taking antibacterial tablets and to restore intestinal microflora (Linex, Rio Flora Balance);
  • Immunostimulants to prevent recurrence of tonsillitis and increase the body's resistance (Immudon, echinacea-based preparations).

If you have a purulent sore throat, it is prohibited to give your child any thermal procedures: compresses, mustard plasters, steaming your feet. These procedures during the acute phase of the disease can activate the proliferation of bacteria.

Older children need to be explained how to gargle with a sore throat. This method will allow you to treat inflammation with greater efficiency: remove purulent plugs, wash away bacteria, and relieve severe symptoms. The most effective rinsing solutions:

  • Sea water;
  • Hexoral, Stopangin for rinsing;
  • Yox (can be used as prescribed by a doctor in the absence of allergic reactions to iodine);
  • , Chlorhexidine;
  • Rotokan;
  • Solution of potassium permanganate, hydrogen peroxide;
  • Infusion of sage, oak bark.

From 5-6 years old, a child can already be safely given lozenges or tablets against purulent sore throat: Hexoral, Strepsils, Septolete, Falimint, Gramicidin, Lizobakt. After 3 years, you can use any means in the form of aerosols and sprays, for example, Tantum Verde, Stopangin.

Physiotherapy for sore throat

Physiotherapeutic treatment of purulent tonsillitis is prescribed after acute symptoms subside. As a rule, this type of therapy is used for chronic tonsillitis, as well as for long-term lymphadenitis against the background of a previous sore throat. Most often, the following physiotherapeutic techniques are recommended for school-age children:

  • UHF to the area of ​​the submandibular and cervical lymph nodes;
  • Inhalation of bronchodilators, expectorants, antibiotics (if the disease has caused complications in the lungs);
  • Microwave therapy;
  • Electrophoresis of drugs on the tonsil area;
  • Mud and ozokerite applications, paraffin compresses;
  • Oxygen treatments;
  • Pine baths;
  • Warming compresses with chitosan (only in remission).

Additionally, children prone to frequent relapses of purulent tonsillitis with a complicated course are prescribed for a long period of time specially selected exercise therapy and breathing exercises with deep breathing.

Purulent tonsillitis can be effectively treated if the patient gets enough water, eats fruits, drinks natural juices and gets enough sleep.

The use of folk remedies

  • Decoction of rose petals. This is a proven gargle for sore throat, ARVI, and pharyngitis. 1 tbsp. Pour a spoonful of rose petals into a glass of water, bring to a boil, and let drain for 1 hour. Gargle your child's throat 3-4 times a day.
  • Beetroot juice. Grate the beets on a fine grater and squeeze out the juice. Add 1 tbsp. a spoonful of vinegar (6%) per glass of juice. Gargle 5-6 times a day.
  • Iodine and manganese. Dissolve 5 drops of iodine in 0.5 liters of a weak manganese solution and shake well. Carry out the rinse procedure 3-4 times a day.
  • Calendula extract. Brew 10 calendula flowers with a glass of boiling water, cool and gargle 3-4 times a day.
  • Rinse with a collection of medicinal herbs (eucalyptus leaf, chamomile, calendula). 1 tbsp. Pour 2 cups of boiling water over a spoonful of the mixture, cook for 4 minutes, let the broth sit for 30 minutes and strain through a filter. Use this decoction for a month.
  • Propolis. Take high quality propolis (weak, chewable) and give a piece to your child to chew in his mouth. It is advisable to chew propolis before eating. A very effective and useful product in the treatment of purulent sore throats.
  • It is useful as a preventive measure and in the early stages of the disease to chew raw slices of lemon peel. After this, it is recommended not to eat for an hour. Lemon contains citric acid and various essential oils, which hinder the passage of microbes and relieve inflammation of the mucous membrane.
  • Since ancient times, purulent sore throat has been treated with raspberries. Chop 1 sprig of dried raspberries and pour 1/3 cup boiling water. Infuse the product for 10 minutes. Strain the resulting liquid and mix with 3 tablespoons of honey. Drink the prepared liquid every evening before bed for 10 days. Children of all ages love this product.
  • Inhalations. Purulent sore throat in children over 10 years of age can be treated using inhalations. Mix 1 spoon of creeping thyme herb with the same amount of sage herb and potato peelings. Simmer the resulting mixture in a water bath for about 2 minutes. Before starting the procedure, add 3 drops of fir oil. After this, the child needs to bend over the pan with the prepared mixture, cover his head with a towel and breathe in the vapor for 10 minutes.
  • Garlic. Pour three cloves of peeled garlic with hot milk. As soon as the product has cooled, strain it and let your baby drink in small sips. Doctors recommend drinking about 2 glasses of this liquid per day.

Using herbal medicine exclusively will not protect a child from developing a sore throat. Traditional recipes must be used in addition to treatment prescribed by a doctor. All together will speed up the baby’s recovery.

Prevention

Purulent sore throat, like any other disease, is easier to prevent than to treat. Prevention of sore throats involves increasing the body's overall defenses. To do this, you need to eat rationally, exercise, regularly spend time in the fresh air, and carry out hardening procedures.

In addition, you should avoid contact with people suffering from purulent tonsillitis.

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conclusions

- an insidious disease. If it is not cured in childhood, it will torment throughout life and lead to serious complications. That is why it is so important to carry out comprehensive treatment and follow all the recommendations of the otolaryngologist. After completion, a recovery period will follow, during which it is important to eat well, rest, and get enough sleep. And then – apply preventive measures. Teach a child who has had a sore throat to a healthy diet, an active lifestyle, and sports so that he will never encounter this disease again.

Children very often suffer from sore throat. Before starting treatment, it is important to determine its type. The most common forms found in children are: catarrhal, purulent, lacunar, herpetic. Each of these types has certain similarities and its own characteristics. Today we will look at the symptoms and treatment of purulent tonsillitis in children at home.

At the back and sides of the throat are oval pieces of tissue called tonsils. They block the entry of any germs into the baby's body and also help in the production of antibodies that fight infections.

Tonsils play a crucial role in the body's immune defense, but sometimes they can become a victim of infections. When they are affected by germs or bacteria, they tend to swell and become covered with a whitish or yellowish coating, which causes them to become inflamed. This inflammatory disease is called purulent tonsillitis or tonsillitis.

Tonsillitis is contagious and spreads easily from an infected child to other children. It can be transmitted by talking, sneezing, coughing and through touching furnishings, dishes, and dirty linen. Hugs and kisses are also a guaranteed way to transmit infection.

Basically, this infection spreads among children in the community (school) and at home (family members).

Signs and symptoms of purulent tonsillitis in children are:

  • inflammation of the lymph nodes in the neck;
  • runny nose;
  • heat;
  • rash in the mouth or on the skin;
  • inflamed, reddened tonsils;
  • pain when swallowing;
  • headache;
  • neck muscle soreness;
  • sore throat and hoarse voice;
  • labored breathing;
  • yellowish or whitish coating in the throat;
  • earache;
  • loss of appetite.

In addition to the above symptoms, they may also experience:

  • abdominal pain;
  • bouts of vomiting;
  • fussiness;
  • excess saliva due to inability to swallow.

See what purulent sore throat in children looks like in the photo.


Purulent deposits are visible on the surface of the tonsils. Sometimes they can be in the form of a rash or concentrated in one place.



As can be seen in the photo, the symptoms of this sore throat in children are enlarged red, loose palatine tonsils. When they are inflamed, the submandibular and sublingual lymph nodes swell, and when pressed they feel painful.


Quick treatment of purulent sore throat in children at home

2 years

  • Chicken soup itself is an anti-inflammatory dish that can compete in its effectiveness with antibiotics. This soup should definitely be in your baby’s diet.

It will help relieve symptoms and prevent further complications. Season it with parsley and garlic. These ingredients also have excellent medicinal properties.


  • Honey significantly reduces the duration of the disease, saturates the body with all the necessary substances to combat pathogens of purulent infections.
  • 4 tablespoons honey;
  • 1 glass of water.
  1. Mix honey in a glass of water and give it to your child to drink.
  2. Drink 2-3 times a day.
  • Here is the prescription restorative infusion, which is aimed at increasing the body's defenses during illness.


  • 2 tablespoons fresh rosehips or
  • 1 tablespoon of dry berries;
  • 200 ml boiling water;
  1. Chop the berries and pour boiling water over them.
  2. Add honey.
  3. Let it brew in a thermos for several hours or overnight.
  4. Give it to your child as a fortified drink throughout the day.
  5. Can also be diluted with water or tea.
  • Regular drinking cranberry infusion will help strengthen the body and improve immunity, as well as speed up the healing process.
  • 50 grams of cranberries;
  • 250 ml boiling water.
  1. Squeeze fresh berries and chop dry ones.
  2. Pour boiling water over and let cool.
  3. You should drink 50 ml 5 times a day.

3-4 years

  • Turmeric has a powerful anti-inflammatory effect, and in combination with honey will help stop the growth of microorganisms.


  • turmeric;
  • raw honey
  1. Mix some raw honey and turmeric powder.
  2. Give your child 1 tablespoon of this mixture 3 times a day.
  3. The product will help quickly relieve pain from inflamed tonsils.
  • As is known, garlic protects against viral and bacterial infections. Its antiseptic properties will also help relieve swelling of the child's tonsils.
  • garlic - 4 cloves;
  • honey - 1 tablespoon.
  1. Chop the garlic and mix with a tablespoon of honey.
  2. Dilute the mixture with a little warm water.
  3. Half the glass should be drunk in small sips, and the remaining half in one gulp.
  4. Apply the treatment 3-4 times a day for 4 days.
  • When your child begins to complain of a sore throat, the first remedy to use is brine, consisting of:


  • 1 tablespoon salt;
  • a glass of warm water.

The high concentration of salt will help draw out pus from inflamed tonsils and soothe soft tissue. It also relieves pain and will prevent the growth of bacteria.

  • Honey has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, thanks to which it perfectly relieves swelling of the tonsils.
  • honey - 1 teaspoon;
  • lemon juice - 2-3 drops.
  1. Mix the ingredients.
  2. Give this remedy to your child three times a day.

7 years

  • Orange juice- An excellent source of vitamin C. It boosts immunity to fight infection. Together with water, it will help reduce the degree of dehydration caused by rising temperatures.


  • orange juice - 3 parts;
  • water - 1 part.
  1. Mix orange juice with water.
  2. Let's drink it every day until the symptoms disappear.
  • Gargling soda- the most affordable and easiest way to cope with purulent sore throat in children. This will help flush out bacteria from infected tonsils.
  • warm water - 1/2 cup;
  • soda - 1 teaspoon.
  1. Mix both ingredients.
  2. Rinse your mouth for about 30 seconds so that the solution can thoroughly rinse the larynx.
  3. Carry out the procedure 5 times a day.
  • Garlic has a strong antibacterial effect due to the sulfur content in it. It is widely used in the treatment of purulent tonsillitis. If your child does not have allergic reactions, then try this remedy.


  • garlic;
  • lemon juice.
  1. Peel the garlic and chop.
  2. Mix with a little lemon juice and honey.
  • By using basilica treat purulent wounds, as well as diseases of the oral cavity and sore throat.
  • 10 basil leaves;
  • 1 ½ cups water;
  • juice of 1 lemon;
  • 1 teaspoon honey.
  1. Steep the leaves for 10 minutes and strain.
  2. Add juice and honey to the infusion.
  3. Drink this mixture 3 times a day for 3 days.

Purulent tonsillitis is a highly contagious disease and can be easily transmitted among children and adolescents. To prevent infection, you should teach your child to observe the rules of personal hygiene from an early age.

  • Avoid the child from sharing utensils and household items with infected people.
  • Teach him to use hand sanitizer when soap and water are not available.
  • Learn to use a handkerchief as a means of personal hygiene.
  • Change the toothbrush after he gets over a purulent sore throat.

By changing your child's diet, you can reduce inflammation and speed up the recovery process.


  • Let him drink at least 8 glasses of water a day. In addition to water, it is beneficial to eat soups, warm broths, drink herbal teas, and fresh fruit and vegetable juices.
  • Avoid drinks that are too acidic, such as citrus fruits, as they may worsen symptoms.
  • It is undesirable to eat fatty, fried and spicy foods.
  • Avoid hard and crunchy foods, such as chips and nuts, as they can worsen the affected mucous membranes.
  • The food in the baby’s diet should be of a soft consistency. Boiled vegetables, mashed potatoes, scrambled eggs and baked fruits are suitable.

Purulent tonsillitis usually resolves without complications. However, if your child suffers from it often, it is better to consult a doctor. Remember that even ordinary caries in the mouth can lead to inflammation of the tonsils. Therefore, it is recommended to regularly take your child for examinations to the dentist and promptly treat caries.

Purulent tonsillitis in children is an infectious and inflammatory process that affects the palatine tonsils and is accompanied by the appearance of purulent plaque on their surface. The disease is widespread among people of both sexes and all ages. In children it occurs more often and is more severe, often accompanied by the development of complications. In the autumn-winter period, the incidence of purulent tonsillitis increases.

Yellow dots (festering follicles) on the surface of the tonsils are a characteristic symptom of purulent tonsillitis

Causes and risk factors

The causative agent of purulent sore throat in children can be various microbial agents, both viral and bacterial, but most often the disease is caused by group A β-hemolytic streptococcus (85% of all cases). The main route of transmission of infection is airborne droplets, but household contact is also possible, for example, through shared utensils and toys.

Factors that increase the risk of developing purulent tonsillitis in children are a decrease in general and/or local immunity, which occurs for the following reasons:

  • acute respiratory disease;
  • tonsil injury;
  • the presence of a focus of chronic infection in the oral cavity (stomatitis, caries);
  • living in an area with unfavorable environmental conditions.

Forms of the disease

Depending on the cause, purulent sore throats in children are classified into several types:

  • primary (ordinary, or banal)– caused by pathogenic bacteria, manifested by purulent lesions of the lymphoid tissue of the pharyngeal ring, intoxication syndrome;
  • secondary (symptomatic)– is a symptom of some other disease (leukemia, agranulocytosis, nutritional-toxic aleukia); manifestations of the underlying disease are primary, angina occurs later and may proceed atypically;
  • specific– purulent inflammation of the tonsils is caused by specific microflora (gonococci, spirochetes). This form of purulent sore throat practically never occurs in children.

Depending on the nature and depth of damage to the tonsils:

  • necrotic purulent tonsillitis.

The incubation period for purulent sore throat in children lasts from several hours to several days. The disease begins suddenly, without a pronounced prodromal period. The child develops severe chills, against the background of which the body temperature rises to 39-40 °C. Symptoms of intoxication quickly increase, and regional lymph nodes enlarge. Children complain of intense sore throat, which intensifies when swallowing, and therefore refuse to eat and drink.

During pharyngoscopy, the following symptoms of purulent tonsillitis in children are revealed:

  • severe hyperemia of the pharynx;
  • infiltration and swelling of the tonsils;
  • expansion of lacunae;
  • the presence of purulent discharge on the surface of the tonsils.

With follicular tonsillitis, yellow dots are clearly visible on the bright red surface of the tonsils - suppurating follicles. This picture is called the “starry sky” symptom.

With the lacunar form of purulent tonsillitis, a loose purulent plaque forms on the surface of the tonsils in the lacunae. This plaque extends beyond the lacunae, but does not extend beyond the tonsils. Purulent plaque is easily removed with a cotton swab; the surface does not bleed after its removal (one of the diagnostic signs that distinguishes the lacunar form from the necrotic one).

In children, purulent tonsillitis occurs more often and is more severe, often accompanied by the development of complications. In the autumn-winter period, the incidence increases.

The necrotic form of purulent tonsillitis in children is especially difficult. It is characterized by a pronounced intoxication syndrome:

  • confusion;
  • persistent fever;
  • repeated vomiting.

The tonsils have a dull, dense coating of greenish-yellow or gray color with jagged, pitted edges. After removal, bleeding lymphoid tissue is found underneath. The pathological process can spread to the arches, uvula, and back wall of the pharynx. At the site of rejection of necrotic tissue, irregularly shaped defects with a diameter of 1–2 cm are subsequently formed.

Diagnostics

Diagnosis of the disease in most cases does not present any difficulties. It is carried out on the basis of the characteristic clinical symptoms of purulent tonsillitis in children and pharyngoscopy data.

To identify the causative agent of the disease and determine its sensitivity to antibiotics, if necessary, a bacteriological examination of a smear from the tonsils is carried out.

Treatment of purulent sore throat in children

Treatment of purulent tonsillitis in children is carried out in most cases on an outpatient basis. Only in severe cases of the disease is hospitalization in the infectious diseases or ENT department of the hospital indicated.

Antibiotics for purulent sore throat in children are the main means of therapy. Macrolides, penicillins, and cephalosporins are used. The duration of the course and dosage are selected by the attending physician on an individual basis. General treatment is complemented by local therapy. Gargles with antiseptic solutions (Chlorhexidine, Furacilin) ​​or decoctions of medicinal plants (chamomile, eucalyptus leaf, calendula flowers) are prescribed. In addition, antiseptic and anti-inflammatory drugs can be used in the form of a spray for irrigating the tonsils (Faringosprey, Bioparox, Novosept). The duration and frequency of their use are also determined by the attending physician.

Rational antibiotic therapy significantly reduces the risk of developing both early and late complications of purulent tonsillitis in children.

Nutrition for purulent sore throat

One of the main symptoms of purulent sore throat in children is a severe sore throat, making it difficult to swallow and, therefore, disrupting normal food intake. In addition, severe intoxication syndrome leads to a sharp decrease in appetite. Therefore, on the first day of the disease, if the child refuses to eat, you should not insist, but it is necessary to ensure plenty of drinking (still water, tea, rosehip decoction, jelly, compote, fruit juice). Drinks should be warm and not irritate the inflamed mucous membrane (it is better to avoid citrus juices, compotes and fruit drinks made from sour berries). When the intensity of the symptoms subsides somewhat (usually after 1-2 days), the child’s diet is expanded.

The diet for children with purulent sore throat is developed taking into account the following principles:

  • eat food often, but in small portions;
  • food should be crushed (porridge, mashed potatoes, pureed soups, soufflé);
  • food and drinks should be at room temperature or slightly warmed, since excessively hot or cold food increases the intensity of pain;
  • dishes should be nutritious, but easily digestible. Dishes made from lean meat (preferably in the form of minced meat), cereals, thermally processed vegetables and fruits, dairy and fermented milk products are welcome.

From the diet you should exclude pickled, fatty, fried foods, hot, spicy, heavy dishes, solid foods, carbonated drinks, and confectionery.

Prevention

Prevention of purulent sore throat in children includes the following areas:

  1. Avoiding hypothermia. Hypothermia, both general and local, leads to a deterioration in the blood supply to the tonsil tissue. In addition, a special mucous layer forms on their surface. These factors create favorable conditions for the life of pathogenic and opportunistic microflora and can cause purulent tonsillitis in children.
  2. Hardening. Allows you to increase the child’s body’s resistance to infectious factors.
  3. Dental control. At least twice a year, preventive examinations by the dentist should be carried out, and, if necessary, timely sanitation. In addition, it is important to maintain oral hygiene.
  4. Control by an ENT doctor. With difficulty in nasal breathing (rhinitis, adenoiditis, deviated nasal septum), the child switches to mouth breathing instead of nasal breathing, which creates the preconditions for the development of purulent sore throat. Therefore, these pathological conditions require timely treatment.

If a child gets sick with purulent tonsillitis, it is necessary to take a number of preventive measures aimed at preventing infection of others:

  • isolate the patient by placing him in a separate room;
  • caregivers wear a gauze mask during contact with the patient;
  • regularly ventilate the room in which the sick child is located, carry out wet cleaning in it 1-2 times a day;
  • allocate separate dishes for the patient, after use, wash them separately from the general ones, and at the end of washing, pour boiling water over them.

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