Treatment of angina, causes, types of the disease, features of the clinic and complaints

Tonsillitis, or angina, is an inflammation of the tonsils caused by viruses or bacteria. The tonsils are lymphoid tissues located at the back of the throat that play an essential role in protecting the body from infections. Angina can be particularly severe in children.

Causes of Angina

Angina can be caused by various pathogens, the most common of which are:

• Bacteria: Most often, angina is caused by Group A streptococcus (beta-hemolytic streptococcus accounts for nearly 80% of cases), but other bacteria, such as staphylococcus, can also be responsible.
• Viruses: Influenza, adenovirus, coronavirus, and others can also lead to tonsil inflammation.
• Smoking: This affects the condition of the throat mucosa, weakening its protective functions.

Symptoms of Angina

The main signs of angina include:

• Painful sensations in the throat that may worsen when swallowing.
• Swelling and inflammation of the tonsils.
• Elevated temperature reaching 39°C and above.
• Headache, body aches, and general weakness.
• Presence of pus on the tonsils (depending on the type of angina).
• Possible enlargement of lymph nodes in the neck.

Most Common Types of Angina

Microorganisms cause several primary forms of the disease:

• Catarrhal Angina: The most common form. It is characterized by a temperature increase up to 37-38 degrees, rarely higher. Patients complain of sore throat, cough, noticeable redness, and swelling of the tonsils.
• Lacunar Angina: This form is more severe, with body temperature rising to 39-40 degrees Celsius, intense throat pain, and pronounced intoxication with weakness, headache, and nausea. The surface of the tonsils is covered with small whitish plaques that are easily removed with a spatula (the main criterion of differentiation from diphtheria).
• Follicular Angina: Similar to lacunar angina, but upon examination, the surface of the inflamed tonsils resembles a "starry sky" due to enlarged follicles and patches of pus.
• Fibrinous Angina: This is a complicated case of the previous two variants, with purulent-necrotic coating extending to the mucous membrane of the pharynx and oral cavity. In this form, body intoxication is typically quite severe. It most often concerns streptococcal angina. If the treatment tactics are incorrectly chosen, it can progress to a phlegmonous type, which always runs in a severe form and most often requires surgical intervention.

Identifying the true causes of the disease plays a significant role in choosing treatment measures. Some types of specific microbes and viruses also induce anginous clinical features. Only a doctor can determine the nature of the disease, so it is advisable to seek help upon noticing the signs of angina.

Specific anginas can be extremely dangerous and require careful diagnosis and treatment:

• Diphtheritic Angina: Shows dirty-gray films on the tonsils and beyond. When attempts are made to remove them, the membranous elements detach with great difficulty, leaving bloody traces behind.
• Scarlet Fever Angina: Often develops necrosis of the tonsils against the background of clinical symptoms.
• Typhoid and Tularemia Angina.

• Angina in Blood Disorders (such as agranulocytosis, leukemias, infectious mononucleosis).
• Viral Angina: This form occurs most frequently in young children and is characterized by pronounced intoxication and gastrointestinal tract involvement, manifesting as nausea, abdominal pain, bloating, and gastrointestinal disturbances.
• Herpetic Angina: The mucous membrane of the tonsils and pharynx becomes bright red at the start of the disease, then develops a rash in the form of small bubbles that burst after a few days, forming erosions with a characteristic reddish border and whitish coating.

How to Treat Angina

Catarrhal, lacunar, and follicular anginas are treated at home under the supervision of a therapist or pediatrician. Treatment decisions should only be made by a doctor. Self-medication can lead to negative consequences.

For treating mild forms of angina without fever, warm drinks with lemon, rosehip, natural syrups, and juices are usually sufficient. Physical activity should also be limited. In severe cases, hospitalization may be necessary.

Treating angina in children requires special caution. In the first days of the illness, it is essential to maintain bed rest. It is also important to provide separate kitchen and bathroom items to avoid exposing other family members to risk. The dietary regimen should consist of soft, vitamin-rich foods to help avoid injury to the tonsils.

For the treatment of purulent angina of a nonspecific nature in moderate to severe forms, the following are employed:

• Antibiotics according to individual schemes after determining the sensitivity of the pathogen.
• Gargling with antiseptic solutions such as furacilin, sodium bicarbonate, boric acid, or ethacridine. Herbal infusions of chamomile, eucalyptus, and other medicinal plants can also be used for these purposes.
• Irrigation of the throat and tonsils with antiseptic and analgesic sprays.
• Antihistamines of the new generation, which reduce allergic components with minimal side effects.
• If needed (with a temperature exceeding 38°C and severe pain), antipyretics and analgesics are prescribed.

Frequent recurrence of angina is an indication for surgical removal of the tonsils (tonsillectomy).

Features of Angina in Children

In children, angina can manifest more intensely and be accompanied by sharper symptoms: the temperature can reach 40°C, appetite may worsen, and due to severe throat pain, the child cannot eat.

It is very important to seek medical help promptly, as the risk of complications in children may be higher.

Prevention of Angina

To prevent angina, it is advisable to follow these recommendations:

• Avoid contact with sick individuals.
• Maintain personal hygiene: wash hands frequently, use separate utensils.
• Strengthen immunity through a healthy lifestyle, proper nutrition, and physical activity.
• Ensure timely vaccinations against diphtheria, influenza, and other infections, as this can reduce the risk of developing angina.
• If possible, ensure cleanliness and humidity of the air in the home, especially where there are children: avoid smoking, regularly ventilate rooms, and if necessary, install a humidifier.
• Follow a balanced diet rich in vitamins and trace elements to support the immune system and help the body fight infections.

Angina is a serious illness that requires timely diagnosis and treatment. Be sure to consult a doctor at "Dobrobut" if you experience the first signs of the disease.

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Angina in Questions and Answers

1. What are the causes of angina development?

The primary causes are viral or bacterial infections. Contributing factors may include cold air, dust, allergies, and a weakened immune system.

2. What are the main symptoms of angina?

Symptoms include sore throat, difficulty swallowing, swelling and inflammation of the tonsils, elevated temperature, general weakness, headache, and sometimes skin rashes.

3. Is angina contagious?

Yes, acute angina, especially bacterial, can be contagious. It spreads through droplets released during coughing or sneezing, and also through shared items.

4. How is angina diagnosed?

Diagnosis generally relies on complaints, a physical examination by a doctor, and, if necessary, laboratory tests such as rapid tests for streptococcus or a complete blood count.

5. How should angina be treated?

Treatment may involve the use of antibiotics (for bacterial tonsillitis), analgesics, gargling with saline solutions or herbal remedies, and ensuring adequate hydration and rest.

6. What complications can occur from angina?

Complications may include an abscess of the tonsils, rheumatism, glomerulonephritis (kidney disease), and ear infections. Therefore, it's crucial to seek timely medical help.

7. Can angina be prevented?

Preventive measures include avoiding smoking, protecting against toxic substances, maintaining hygiene practices, timely vaccinations (seasonal flu and other diseases).

8. When should I see a doctor for suspected angina?

You should see a doctor if the sore throat lasts more than 48 hours, is accompanied by a high temperature or difficulty swallowing, or if you notice pus on the tonsils.

9. How long does angina treatment last?

Typically, symptoms of angina start to improve within a few days of treatment; however, complete recovery may take from one week to two, depending on the type and severity of the condition.

If you experience symptoms of angina, do not delay — consult with a doctor at “Dobrobut” through the appointment form on the website or by calling the contact center.