Yeditepe University Kozyatağı Hospital Ear, Nose, and Throat Specialist Prof. Dr. Müzeyyen Doğan answered the questions about adenoids and tonsil problems in children.

What Do Tonsils Do?

Tonsils form part of our immune system. It is located on the right and left sides of the tongue root. It is a collection of lymphoid cells surrounded by a capsule. Everyone has it at birth. As they encounter microbes, the cells in the tonsils form lymphocytes and antibodies. Thus, the body learns to protect itself against microorganisms that it encounters for the first time and can harm.

What Are the Causes of Tonsillitis in Children?

Usually, bacteria and viruses lead to tonsillitis. The effect of bacteria in childhood was reported as -30. The most detected bacteria are group A beta-hemolytic streptococci.

Are the Symptoms of Tonsillitis Different from Viruses and Bacteria?

In both, the patient's complaint is sore throat and weakness. In the beta microbe, white-colored tissues are formed on the tonsils. We can also see this image in infectious mono and adenovirus infections. However, lymphocyte counts in the blood count and the image of blood cells in the peripheral smear help us make a differential diagnosis. With the rapid strep A test, we can find out whether there is a beta germ in the throat within 15 minutes. In the meantime, if there are people who have a throat infection in the same house or the immediate vicinity of the patient, it is useful to know the causative microorganism for diagnosis.

Why do Some Children Have Frequent Tonsil Infections?

Children often get sick during play and school-age periods when they are just starting to encounter microbes. Their body recognizes the microbes in every disease, and in the next encounter, it is milder or does not get sick because it shapes the defense system according to the microbe in question. People's immune systems, like other organs in their bodies, have genetic differences from person to person. Some people's immune systems are not as strong, and they can get the same infection over and over again at the same severity. Another factor is the deterioration of the tissue in the throat due to allergies or reflux, and germs can easily cause infection by crossing the protection barriers here. In addition, the presence of an individual with group A beta-hemolytic streptococcus in the family may not cause symptoms in adults but often leads to chronic tonsillitis in children.

Do Iced Beverages or Ice Cream Cause Tonsil Infection?

Tonsil infection is caused by germs. Eating or drinking cold foods or beverages may cause sore throat in people with chronic pharyngitis. Sensitivity of the tissue at the back of the throat.