The classification of tonsillitis is quite extensive, which indicates a different development and course of the disease. This disease can be attributed to the most common, and it can manifest itself in people of both sexes, regardless of age. Knowing what kinds of tonsillitis can be, how they manifest, you can quickly and effectively cope with an existing disease.
This disease is of an infectious nature, occurring with lesions of the tonsils.
Main types
Like any other disease, there is a classification of tonsillitis, which takes into account the symptoms and causes of the disease. Tonsil inflammation is divided into several types, namely:
- catarrhal;
- fibrinous;
- purulent;
- phlegmonous;
- herpetic;
- ulcerative necrotic.
Depending on the causes of the disease, such varieties are distinguished as:
In addition, doctors distinguish an acute and chronic form of tonsillitis, depending on which there may be various symptoms, and a treatment method is also selected.
By localization
Tonsillitis has a fairly diverse classification. Angina (according to ICD-10 code J03) refers to a bacterial lesion of the tonsils. The location of tonsillitis plays a huge role in the diagnosis and treatment. According to the classification by field of education, such forms of the disease are distinguished as:
- larynx;
- lingual;
- nasopharyngeal;
- tonsillitis of tonsils.
Doctors believe that angina develops as a result of inflammation of the respiratory system.
By type of pathogen
It is very important to understand how to distinguish a bacterial or viral sore throat in humans, since the methodology of therapy largely depends on this. Bacterial tonsillitis is provoked mainly by streptococcus, and in some cases Staphylococcus aureus or pneumococcus.
It manifests itself in the form of purulent inflammation of the tonsils. Treatment is carried out by the use of antibacterial drugs. Everyone should understand how to distinguish between viral or bacterial tonsillitis, since improperly conducted therapy can provoke the development of complications.
The viral type of the disease develops as a result of penetration into the body:
- influenza virus and parainfluenza;
- adenovirus;
- coxsackie virus.
There is no plaque with this form of the disease, and the temperature generally does not increase. Treatment is carried out using local antiseptic agents (Hexoral, Ingalipt, etc.) and antiviral drugs (Cycloferon, Amiksin, etc.).
The fungal form of angina can be triggered by Candida fungus in the oral cavity. Among the signs should be noted such as:
- redness or burning of the mucous membrane;
- the formation of white or yellowish deposits;
- enlarged tonsils;
- temperature rise.
Treatment is carried out with the help of local antiseptics (Strepsils, Anti-Angin, etc.), fungicides (Nystatin, Fluconazole, etc.), and it is also necessary to strengthen immunity by taking vitamin complexes. Mixed sore throat requires more thorough research and treatment.
Type
Classification of angina by type is very important, since the severity of symptoms and the likelihood of side effects depend on this in many respects. Catarrhal sore throat is the mildest form of all other types of illness. In this case, there is no pronounced symptomatology and pain. The obvious signs are:
- a sore throat;
- redness or enlargement of the tonsils;
- a slight increase in temperature.
There is no white coating on the tonsils and surrounding tissues. Many are interested in whether catarrhal sore throat is contagious or not and how long its course continues. As with any other type of tonsillitis, contact with an infected person can result in infection. This form of the disease lasts 3-5 days.
The danger of catarrhal sore throat is the probability of its transition to more dangerous types of the disease. Treatment is carried out using local therapy.
Purulent lesions cannot be confused with any form of tonsillitis. Its types are divided into lacunar and follicular tonsillitis. The difference between them is insignificant, but nevertheless it is. The lacunar type of the disease manifests itself in the form of such signs as:
- a sharp increase in temperature;
- fever;
- severe sore throat;
- body aches;
- enlarged and sore lymph nodes;
- enlarged tonsils.
It is worth considering that purulent discharge does not go beyond the tonsils. Follicular tonsillitis proceeds almost in the same way as lacunar tonsillitis, however, plaque on the tonsils is presented in the form of spot blotches. It stands out only against the background of an inflamed mucosa.
Treatment is carried out by using antibacterial drugs (Agumentin, Macropen, etc.). This form is very dangerous, as it can cause complications.
Fibrinous tonsillitis is often confused with diphtheria. A distinctive feature of the course of such a disease is the formation of a film in place of yellowish abscesses. Symptoms of such a sore throat are very bright, and pain from the throat gives into the ear. Signs of intoxication are very pronounced, which is accompanied by vomiting, dizziness, and clouding of consciousness is also possible. The treatment is carried out with the help of medications and physiotherapy.
The herpetic form of the disease often occurs when Coxsacki enterovirus enters the body. The disease is diagnosed mainly in children aged 3-10 years. The disease begins with a sharp increase in temperature and an increase in tonsils in size. After a while, vesicles become noticeable on the throat, which then burst and a bleeding ulcer forms in their place. After an abscess breakthrough, the temperature decreases and the headache disappears.
Some patients are interested in how phlegmonous tonsillitis manifests itself and how treatment is carried out correctly, since it is quite rare. The mechanism of its development is explained by purulent fusion of a certain area of the tonsils. Often a lesion is observed only on one side. The main sign will be enlarged tonsils with redness. The patient tries to hold his head only in a certain position.
The ulcerative necrotic form develops as a result of severe stress, exhaustion, or overwork. The occurrence of the disease is influenced by the occurrence of another disease of the oral cavity, the treatment of which is not carried out. The main symptoms will be:
- deep ulcers on the tonsils;
- bad breath;
- the death of affected tissues.
This form of the disease does not always provoke a fever. Treatment is carried out with the help of antibacterial drugs and local antiseptics, which irrigate the throat and mouth. It is also possible to lubricate the tonsils with slightly cauterizing solutions. The doctor may prescribe ultraviolet irradiation of the oral cavity.
By time of occurrence
Classification of angina by time of occurrence is divided into primary and secondary. The primary lesion is the first occurrence of tonsillitis or one that appears 2-3 years after the last acute period. The re-development of the inflammatory process occurs after a short period of time since the last illness.
By the nature of the course
According to the classification of tonsillitis, tonsillitis can be diagnosed in two forms, namely acute and chronic. Acute inflammation begins spontaneously and proceeds with pronounced signs.
The chronic form is diagnosed after 3 or more relapses per year. It can proceed as a typical acute form with a rapid increase in temperature. In addition, it can be a sluggish inflammatory process, which is accompanied by:
- a slight increase in temperature;
- mild sore throat;
- swollen lymph nodes;
- bad breath.
Treatment must necessarily be comprehensive and implies the use of medications and physiotherapeutic techniques. If conservative therapy does not bring the desired result, then it is recommended to perform an operation to remove tonsils.
Specific species
There are also special forms of angina, the cause of which differs from a typical etiology. There are such varieties as:
- parasitic tonsillitis;
- monocytic;
- angina of Simanovsky-Plaut-Vincennes.
The parasitic type of tonsillitis most often occurs with the activation of amoebas living in the oral cavity. Under negative conditions, they begin to multiply quite rapidly and go into the throat, where they cause the formation of an inflammatory process.
Angina Simanovsky-Plaut-Vincennes occurs under the influence of microorganisms that are in the mouth. With a decrease in immunity, they provoke the development of inflammation.
Monocytic angina occurs due to the course of mononucleosis and is formed against the background of enlarged lymph nodes. Most often, children 7-12 years old suffer from this disease. The duration of the course of the disease is an average of 8-15 days. In blood tests, a large number of monocytes are found.
Causes of occurrence
Most types of angina develop due to weakened immunity. The immune system can weaken for several reasons, in particular, such as:
- lack of sleep or chronic fatigue;
- avitaminosis;
- exhaustion;
- the presence of chronic diseases;
- recovery from prolonged illnesses;
- pathology of the immune system;
- stress;
- lack of regular exercise.
The cause of the development of bacterial tonsillitis can also be foci of infection in the oral cavity. Infection can occur with close contact with the patient.
The main symptoms
Symptoms and treatment of angina in adults and children can be very different, it all depends on the particular course of the disease and its type. From the moment of primary infection to the onset of the very first signs, 10-72 hours pass. The duration of the acute period is 1 week. The disease begins almost the same in all cases, except for atypical forms of angina. Among the main manifestations, it is necessary to highlight:
- aching in the bones;
- heaviness in the body;
- headache;
- soreness in the muscles and joints.
Then the temperature rises sharply, the patient begins to chill, severe sweating, difficulty in swallowing are noted, plaque forms on the tonsils. All these symptoms are largely dependent on the type of course of acute tonsillitis.
Catarrhal sore throat in adults is much brighter than in children. The main signs will be redness and sore throat, dry mouth, swelling of the glands without plaque. With timely treatment, the prognosis is quite good.
Symptoms of lacunar angina appear within a few hours after infection. In this case, there is severe soreness in the throat, swelling of the tonsils, intoxication, fever.
The development of follicular tonsillitis occurs very sharply with a rapid increase in temperature, which cannot be brought down. In addition, there is a sore throat, which gives into the ear, signs of intoxication, inflammation of the lymph nodes. Literally after a few days, suppuration of the follicles occurs, which open themselves, and scars remain after them. Pretty serious consequences can occur.
Laryngeal tonsillitis is divided into:
- hydropic;
- infiltrative;
- phlegmonous laryngitis.
The main signs of the course of the disease in this case will be such as:
- soreness and dryness in the throat;
- follicular inflammation;
- unilateral swelling;
- yellowish plaque on the mucous membrane.
At the same time, temperature and breathing remain normal, and there is no change in voice. With a more severe course, severe intoxication, fever, shortness of breath are noted.
Diagnostics
Diagnosis begins with a survey of the patient. It is important to establish whether a person has been in contact with a sore throat before. Be sure to carry out pharyngoscopy with a spatula so that you can better see the throat. This is the main diagnostic method that allows you to establish the presence of a sore throat and its shape.
Then the doctor examines and palpates the occipital and parotid lymph nodes. A general blood test is required and a bacteriological examination is carried out. This analysis is required to determine the pathogen and to know how to conduct treatment. To exclude diphtheria, a smear is taken from the pharynx and nasal cavity.
Treatment features
When the first symptoms occur, treatment of angina in adults and children should be carried out immediately. For this, antibiotics are mainly prescribed (Augmentin, Amoxicillin, Amoxiclav, etc.). Before visiting the doctor, the patient should gargle every hour.
To eliminate inflammation and pain, you need to use aerosols (Hexoral, Ingalipt, Kameton, Stopangin) and dissolve lozenges (Strepsils, Septolete, Grammidin, Faringosept). Since pronounced intoxication of the body is observed during sore throat, the patient is shown compliance with bed rest and a warm, plentiful drink.
Basically, antibiotic therapy is prescribed, with the exception of only the viral and fungal forms of the disease. When the temperature rises, it is necessary to take antipyretic drugs (Ibufen, Nurofen, Paracetomol). If the sore throat is very severe, then the doctor prescribes pain medication.
Possible complications
Banal tonsillitis is very dangerous for its complications, especially if you suffer the disease on your legs and carelessly treat your health. In order to avoid infection of other people, treatment of the bacterial form of the disease should be carried out in a hospital. Complications may include:
- Chronical bronchitis;
- rapid development of puffiness or asphyxia;
- blood poisoning;
- diseases of the lymphatic system;
- arthritis;
- otitis media;
- rheumatism;
- abscesses;
- bacterial pneumonia.
With bacterial infection, a special load is on the heart muscle and tissue of the joints. Often, kidney function is impaired.
Prophylaxis
Prevention of angina consists in strict adherence to basic hygiene rules. Pregnant women must donate blood 3 times to the Wasserman reaction. The family and team should try to minimize contact with the infected person.