Should I Be Concerned About My Swollen Tonsil Touching the Uvula After Pain Relief?
Hello everyone, I recently battled what I believe was tonsillitis. I experienced significant soreness in the right side of my throat, experienced trouble when swallowing, and dealt with some discomfort in my ear as well. My right tonsil was noticeably enlarged, nearly making contact with my uvula. After consulting with a physician, I was given a prescription for antibiotics, throat spray, and Vitamin C supplements. Currently, I have completed four days of the antibiotic course. While the pain has substantially subsided—I can now comfortably consume soft foods—the right tonsil remains quite swollen, obstructing that side of my throat and still pressing against the uvula. Although the sharp pain has dissipated, the swelling is still quite pronounced. Is this something to be concerned about? Is it typical for the tonsil to remain enlarged for an extended period, even after several days of medication? I appreciate your insights! 22 years old, 170 cm, 70 kg
Answers (1)
6/25/2025, 7:01:20 AM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable to have concerns about prolonged swelling in your tonsil after a recent bout of tonsillitis. While it's not uncommon for tonsils to remain enlarged for some time after acute infections, it's important to monitor the situation for any changes.
Explanation
After tonsillitis, it's typical for inflammation and swelling to persist even after pain decreases and antibiotics start to work. The tonsils can remain enlarged for several days to weeks as your body continues to heal. However, if the tonsil is pressing against the uvula and causing discomfort, it's wise to keep a close eye on the situation.
Next Steps
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Continue Antibiotic Course: Make sure you complete the prescribed course of antibiotics as this will help clear any infection fully.
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Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of your symptoms closely. Pay attention to any worsening of the swelling, persistent pain, difficulty breathing, or any new symptoms such as fever.
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Hydration and Soothing Remedies: Continue to drink plenty of fluids and consider warm saltwater gargles, which can help soothe the throat and may assist with inflammation.
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Avoid Irritants: Stay away from smoke and other irritants that can exacerbate throat issues.
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Re-evaluate After a Week: If the swelling hasn’t reduced at all after about a week or if any concerning symptoms develop, it may be necessary to seek further evaluation.
It's great to hear that your pain has significantly decreased, and let's aim to continue this healing process together. If you have further concerns or changes arise, don't hesitate to reach out for more personalized guidance.
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