Associate Professor explained: how to recognize and treat childhood tonsillitis in Northern Cyprus

Associate Professor Dr. Kudret Çağlar, in an article for Gündem Kıbrıs, explained the causes, diagnosis, and treatment of sore throat in children, paying particular attention to the role of Group A beta-hemolytic streptococcus and to the signs that require medical attention. The author emphasizes that a diagnosis cannot be made from a photo or a message — this increases the risk of error.

The article notes that viral infections are more common in children, but about one-third of cases may be caused by streptococci, most often in children aged 5–15; infection can also be transmitted at a younger age through sick older siblings. The incubation period for streptococcus is usually 7–10 days. Typical symptoms: high fever (>38°C), difficulty swallowing, redness and white coatings on the tonsils, swollen cervical lymph nodes; possible abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting.

Accurate diagnosis requires a doctor’s examination and, if necessary, a properly taken swab from the affected area. Treatment: penicillin — either orally for at least 10 days, or a single injection of long-acting penicillin; with oral therapy it is important not to interrupt the course. A child may return to school 48 hours after starting treatment if there is no fever.

Serious complications are indicated if left untreated: rheumatism affecting the heart, post-streptococcal nephritis, as well as otitis, sinusitis, and pneumonia. It is recommended to see a doctor if fever persists for more than 2 days after starting therapy, if temperature rises again, or in case of rash, ear pain, bloody or dark nasal discharge, productive cough, shortness of breath, seizures, severe weakness, joint pain and swelling, or vomiting. It is also important to remember hygiene and limiting close contact with the patient to prevent the spread of infection.