Tonsillitis
Tonsillitis is a condition resulting from an irritation of the tonsils. Made up of lymph tissue, the tonsils play an important role in helping the body to combat infection as a component of the immune system. Caused by either a viral or bacterial strain tonsillitis is spread through coughing, sneezing, and breathing, in the form of pathogen droplets, which are absorbed tactilely through touching infected objects, through the skin, and orally through breathing in the infected droplets. Symptoms, including sore throat and fever, appear often 2- 5 days after coming into contact with the pathogen droplets. In addition to the above named symptoms, if you experience coughing, sneezing, and nasal congestion, you are most likely suffering from a viral infection. If your sore throat is accompanied by a fever and swollen lymph nodes, you are probably experiencing a bacterial strain of tonsillitis.
If You Have Been Diagnosed with Tonsillitis
While the viral variety of tonsillitis usually recedes on its own after 4-10 days, the kind caused by strep bacteria requires treatment via antibiotics. If left untreated the bacterial strain can led to complications such as infection of the middle ear (otitis media) and sinuses (sinusitis). In extreme circumstances, when conventional treatment is ineffective or the tonsillitis becomes chronic, your doctor may recommend a tonsillectomy, or removal of the tonsils.
A Whole Health Perspective
Looking at Tonsillitus through a Whole Health model, we explore the individual’s unique presentation from the 5 Aspects of Whole Health™ perspective.
- Physically – The major function of the tonsils, which are part of the upper respiratory tract as well as the immune system, is to filter and remove invaders which could lead to illness. The tonsils are part of the initial immunological response to inhaled or ingested pathogens, such as viruses and bacteria, and play a part in mounting an immune response to eradicate these foreign substances. Keeping the upper respiratory tract and tonsils healthy and responsive can assist in proper function and in appropriate immune response. Some techniques for keeping tonsils healthy include gargling with salt water, adequately hydrating, washing hands frequently to decrease germ transmission, and avoiding pathogens, allergens and pollutants (such as cigarette smoke) which can increase throat irritation.
Because the tonsils are part of the immunological response system, supporting the immune system is important, especially in cases of repeated tonsillitis. Stress, such as a job change, relationship difficulties, or chronic illness, may cause dysfunction of the immune system, in part through its interaction with the adrenal glands. The adrenal glands function as the body’s stress response system, and when chronically stimulated by stress, the hormones they release may become dysregulated and negatively affect the immune system and cause increased risk for infection and inflammation. Modulating the stress response, therefore, may positively affect the immune system, tonsil health, and the recovery process. Adequate amounts of sleep, both to support the immune system and to recover from illness, is important for the healing process.
Some research exists suggesting that acupuncture may assist in the modulation of the immune response and proper function of the throat and upper airway, as well as reduce symptoms such as pain. Traditional Chinese herbal medicine may also be useful. Certain studies suggest a possible link between homeopathic treatments suggest and healthy immune system functioning.
2. Emotionally – Emotional responses communicate to the immune system via chemicals called neuropeptides and neurotransmitters, and through the adrenal glands (glands which respond to stressors and then biochemically communicate with other organs and tissues). Research indicates that engaging in positive emotional response beneficially effects the inflammatory response, immune system, and overall health. Thus psychological and physical stress, and the associated emotions, may possibly contribute to symptoms associated with the immune response. During times of stress and illness, certain relaxation practices, such as diaphragmatic breathing, guided imagery, mindfulness, meditation, or gentle yoga can be utilized to reduce the stress response. Discussing difficult emotions, such as anxiety, frustration, anger, or grief, with a mental health practitioner may confer health benefits, as will engaging in supportive relationships.
3. Nutritionally/Chemically – Foods and chemicals ingested can impact health and wellness. Certain food, especially those one may be allergic to such as milk, wheat, eggs, shellfish, and/or peanuts, can increase the risk of developing tonsillar hypertrophy and infection. Determining and avoiding food allergens may reduce symptoms. Good health in general is supported with a nutrition plan that minimizes processed foods and foods high in sugar, triglycerides, alcohol, and chemical additives. Proper nutrition supports the immune system, which is implicated in the presentation of tonsillitis. During times of illness, to appropriately support the body’s healing process and reaction to the stress of illness, attention to particular vitamins and mineral is important. These include cholesterol, protein, vitamins A, C, E, and B complex, essential fatty acids, and essential minerals. The gastrointestinal tract houses a large portion of the body’s immune system, and keeping the biome of the gut intact and healthy may play a part in the body’s ability to fight off foreign substances which could elicit tonsillitis. Proper nutrition, avoiding gastrointestinal irritants such as alcohol and some over-the-counter medications, as well as supplementation with pre and probiotics, may possibly assist in healthy gut and respiratory tract microbiome. Some studies indicate a link between immune health, a healthy microbiome, and the ingestion of fermented foods.
4. Environmental – Environmental factors which may compromise the health of the upper respiratory tract and tonsils may include air pollutants such as cigarette smoke, mold, dust mites, common airborne allergens such as pet dander, and exposure to viruses or bacteria. Exercise can regulate the immune system and improve response to viral infections such as those which cause the tonsillitis, but should be practiced moderately. Time spent out of doors has a beneficial effect on the immune system, especially when engaged in activities in a woods or forest setting. Other environmental factors, such as a stressful job or relationship, loud noises, abrupt weather changes, and bright lights, may increase symptoms through their effects on the adrenal gland stress response and immune system. The messages and stimuli we absorb from the external environment biochemically communicates to the immune cells, and could potentially affect their function. Alleviating exposure to environmental triggers and stress could possibly result in a healthier immune response to pathogen exposure. Preventing the spread of the pathogens which can cause tonsillitis through environmental interventions such as cleaning surfaces, washing hands, and covering sneezes and coughing will reduce exposure to viruses and bacteria.
5. Beliefs, Values and Worldview – also identified as Spirituality – Spiritual expression, whether through prayer, meditation, yoga, traditional worship, etc. has an influence on health and wellbeing, often by encouraging an understanding and connection between mind, body, and spirit. Practices which encourage self-awareness and stress reduction in particular are beneficial for immune health. Possible feelings of isolation, living in discordance with one’s values, or inability to connect with support and the natural surroundings due to illness or other factors could increase stress and exacerbate symptoms.