Tonsillitis

The tonsils are special lymph nodes located on either sides at the back of the throat, behind the tongue. They play ta major role in trapping infection-causing germs. Tonsils contain antibodies and cells that can tackle infections from spreading into the body. Tonsils store white blood cells and form part of the body's immune system. But when virus or bacteria infect the tonsils, a person suffers from tonsillitis. Tonsillitis is often noticed in children. Tonsillitis usually spreads from person to person by contact. Tonsillitis can in some cases lead to secondary infection of the middle ear or scarlet fever.

Symptoms of tonsillitis include swollen glands at the back of the neck and dark red tonsils. The voice may sound different. The person may have fever and chills. There may be headache and severe sore throat. The patient may have difficulty in swallowing. Viral infections cause milder symptoms. A throat culture or rapid strep test is used to test whether the tonsillitis is triggered by viral or bacterial infection.

Often tonsillitis is caused due to respiratory virus infections such as strep throat. Over-the-counter medications may be used to reduce pain and fever. Suitable antibiotics are prescribed to tackle the streptococcal bacteria, if that is identified as the source of tonsillitis. These days doctors do not recommend surgical removal of the tonsils (tonsillectomy). Adequate rest, plenty of warm fluids and smooth foods can bring considerable relief to a person suffering from tonsillitis.

Cervical Lymphadenitis

Cervical Lymphadenitis is inflammation in the lymph glands of the neck. This lymph gland enlargement is usually secondary to any viral or bacterial infections. This condition is often noticed with tonsillitis, pharyngitis or even dental infection. Cervical Lymphadenitis is commonly seen in children suffering from upper respiratory infection. Infections such as diptheria, tuberculosis or wounds caused by cat-scratch disease or impetigo can bring on Cervical Lymphadenitis.

Symptoms of Cervical Lymphadenitis include pain and tenderness in the lymph glands of the neck. There might be cough, sore throat and fever. Often patients suffering from Cervical Lymphadenitis experience irritability and earache. In some cases, scalp infections or impetigor or dermatitis is noticed. Chest x-rays and skin tests are used to diagnose the cause for the swollen lymph nodes. The infected nodes are sometimes aspirated for further analysis. Biopsy might be done in some cases.

In most cases, Cervical Lymphadenitis does not need any treatment. Once the cause for the swollen lymph glands is identified, appropriate treatment is prescribed. Pencillin or dicloxacillin is often used.

Acute Glomerulonephritis

Glomerulonephritis is a medical condition where the glomeruli in the kidneys become inflamed. The glomeruli are involved in the removal of uremic waste. Acute Glomerulonephritis occurs when the inflammation is sudden and severe. Children in the age group 2 - 12 years are more likely to suffer Acute Glomerulonephritis. This disease can also affect those suffering from diabetes, hepatitis or lupus. Typically Acute glomerulonephritis follows a streptococcal infection, such as strep throat, tonsillitis or scarlet fever. Viral infections such as HIV or hepatitis B or hepatitis C can bring on an attack of acute glomerulonephritis.

Symptoms of glomerulonephritis include fatigue, nausea and loss of appetite. There might be flu-like symptoms including fever. Joint pains and blood in the sputum are also noticed in patients suffering from glomerulonephritis. Shortness of breath and high blood pressure may be experienced. There might be blood and protein in the urine. Often Chronic glomerulonephritis is not manifested in any symptoms and is discovered only with a physical examination. Complications such as high blood pressure and kidney failure can occur if it is left untreated.

Mild cases of glomerulonephritis are not treated unless the symptoms become severe. CT scan allows the doctor to visualize the kidneys. Urine is checked for increased levels of protein. Blood tests reveal any streptococcal antibodies or low blood count. A biopsy is often done to determine the cause for Glomerulonephritis.

Treatment for acute glomerulonephritis involves improving the functioning of the kidneys and reducing the damage to the glomeruli. A diet with reduced intake of sodium, protein and fluids is recommended. The patient suffering from acute glomerulonephritis is advised bed rest to facilitate better blood flow to the kidneys. Antibiotics are often prescribed to treat residual infection. Diuretics aid in better output of urine. In cases of renal failure, temporary dialysis or kidney transplant are considered.