What can I do to get rid of my tonsillitis problems?

Question

Hello doctor,

I have been suffering from tonsillitis for many years and having strep throat for the last ten days. I consulted a doctor regarding the same concern. The doctor suggested tablet Zinnat 500 mg for five days. However, the doctor changed the medicine on the fifth day and gave tablet Salocef 1g. He also advised salt water gargles, vitamin B12, vitamin C, vitamin B6, vitamin D, and zinc. I have previously taken the tablet Amoxicillin, but the doctor changed it this time. Despite taking all these medicines, I am experiencing worsening of my strep throat. I also got a COVID-19 test done; it came negative. What can I do for a faster recovery?

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

The photo you shared suggests acute tonsillitis of follicular variety (attachment removed to protect the patient's identity). The whitish lesions over tonsils are known as follicles. Also, there are well-defined membranes over your pharynx and some parts of the tonsil. If it does not respond to intravenous antibiotics, I strongly suspect viral etiology, including infectious mononucleosis. Paul-Bunnell's test will confirm the diagnosis. If it is viral, then it is self-resolving, and a single injection of steroids would make things improve faster. Painkillers will provide symptomatic relief.

Answer 2

Hello,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

Probiotics can help you to get rid of antibiotic-induced side effects but would not give you any significant immune boost at this stage. I would still suggest considering taking an Amoxicillin and Clavulanic acid combination and the antibiotics you are taking as it is safe and can take care of the secondary bacterial infection. You can take tablet Ibuprofen three times daily. Viral tonsillitis and pharyngitis are usually self-resolving, and within a week or two, they should subside. You may continue salt water gargling and get a throat swab done for culture and sensitivity. Regards.