The best remedies for tonsillitis

Tonsillitis is an inflammation of the palatine tonsils. Its causes can be viruses (rhinovirus, enterovirus), bacteria (group A hemolytic streptococcus), fungi (Candida genus).

The main symptom of tonsillitis is a sore throat that worsens when swallowing. There is also an increase in body temperature, general weakness, headache.

Effective remedies for tonsillitis come in various groups. Depending on the cause of tonsillitis, concomitant diseases, and the characteristics of the body, the doctor individually selects the treatment. Consider the most popular groups of drugs for the treatment of tonsillitis.

Rating of the top 5 inexpensive and effective remedies for tonsillitis according to KP

1. Antibiotics

A common cause of tonsillitis is bacteria (group A hemolytic streptococcus), so treatment should be based on antibacterial therapy.

The main groups of antibiotics are penicillins (Amoxiclav, Flemoxin Solutab, Amoxicillin), cephalosporins (Cefotaxime, Ceftriaxone), macrolides (Clarithromycin, Josamycin, Azithromycin).

Since antibacterial drugs have a bad effect on the normal microflora, it is necessary to additionally take probiotics and eubiotics. This will avoid the development of dysbacteriosis.

For maximum effect, it is important to observe the terms of treatment and the dosage prescribed by the doctor.

Advantages:

• effective in the treatment of bacterial tonsillitis;
• the effect of treatment comes quickly (in 24-48 hours).

Disadvantages:

• it is necessary to determine the sensitivity of bacteria to antibacterial drugs;
• additionally take drugs so that there is no thrush;
• bacterial resistance to antibiotics may develop;
• taken only after consulting a doctor.

2. Local preparations with antibacterial effect

These drugs include sprays, lozenges, gargles (Faringosept, Furacilin, Geksoral, AntiAngin).

Lozenges usually have a pleasant taste, while sprays have a specific smell. At the heart of such funds there are auxiliary substances that anesthetize and envelop. This allows you to remove unpleasant symptoms immediately after use. Since viruses, bacteria and fungi can be the cause of tonsillitis, local preparations are only symptomatic therapy, the main treatment is important – antiviral, antibacterial.

Advantages:

• sore throat disappears after the first application;
• safe for frequent use.

Disadvantages:

• often part of the treatment;
• may cause temporary numbness of the throat and tongue.

3. Antiseptics

Antiseptic drugs are used in combination for the treatment of tonsillitis. The most popular are: Miramistin, Lugol’s solution, Ingalipt.

Preparations of this group are represented by different active substances (chlorine, iodine, acids, alkalis, peroxide, alcohol) and have a different mechanism of action. Antiseptic action involves the impact on pathogenic microorganisms, which leads to their death.

Advantages:

• local effect, little absorbed into the bloodstream;
• quick positive effect;
• the activity of the drug persists for several hours.

Disadvantages:

• there is a possibility of burns;
• dryness of the mucous membranes appears;
• you can not drink and eat immediately after use;
• an allergic reaction is possible.

4. Antihistamines

Antihistamines are a group of substances that block histamine receptors in the body. Histamine is a biologically active substance that regulates many physiological processes. Free histamine causes spasm of smooth muscles, lowering blood pressure, tissue swelling.

With tonsillitis, taking antihistamines can reduce swelling and pain.

The most popular antihistamines: Suprastin, Tavegil, Tsetrin, Desal.

Advantages:

• effective against various pathogens;
• relieve the condition a few minutes after taking.

Disadvantages:

• are part of therapy;
• cause drowsiness.

5. Antipyretics

The drugs in this group are non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). The most popular antipyretics are: Nurofen, Paracetamol, Panadol.

After their application, the state of health improves, which allows patients to endure the disease on their feet (this is in vain). It is important to use basic therapy: antibacterial, antiviral or antifungal.

Since the drugs have a serious effect on the liver and gastrointestinal tract, their intake is limited to the maximum allowable dosage. However, antipyretic drugs are considered quite safe and are sold in pharmacies without a doctor’s prescription.

Advantages:

• have analgesic and anti-inflammatory action;
• rapidly lower body temperature.

Disadvantages:

• do not get rid of the cause of the disease;
• increased risk of stomach bleeding;
• hepatotoxicity.

How to choose remedies for tonsillitis

In every pharmacy there are at least a dozen remedies for tonsillitis. It is important to know that the drug will be effective only when determining the cause of the disease. A throat swab helps to identify the pathogen. It will be great if you immediately determine the sensitivity of microorganisms to antibacterial drugs.

Even before visiting a doctor, it is recommended:

• use antiseptic preparations – prevent the overgrowth of pathological microorganisms;
• local preparations with antimicrobial action – to reduce sore throat;
• antipyretic – when the temperature rises above 38 degrees;
• antihistamines – to reduce the severity of edema.

Popular questions and answers

We discussed important issues related to tonsillitis with therapist Tatyana Pomerantseva.

Sources:

1. Clinical recommendations “Acute tonsillopharyngitis” 2016;
2. Clinical recommendations “Acute and chronic tonsillitis” 2016;
3. Register of Medicinal Products of Russia® RLS®, 2000-2021.