Persistent Tonsillitis: Seeking Solutions After Antibiotics
Subject: 30-year-old female, weighing 60kg and standing 5 feet 7 inches tall. Recently quit smoking after a period of use. At the start of June, I began experiencing a sore throat. After enduring it for approximately a week to ten days, I consulted a pharmacy, where I received a five-day course of antibiotics for early-stage tonsillitis. Regrettably, I continued to smoke, albeit with reduced frequency. A week later, I noticed that my throat remained inflamed and painful, with several white patches present. Consequently, I obtained another seven-day prescription for antibiotics containing penicillin. While there were moments of relief, my symptoms fluctuated, leaving me in discomfort. On the eighth day, I returned to my general practitioner, who prescribed an additional three-day course of the same antibiotics. I made the decision to quit smoking altogether and started using pain relievers along with a throat spray, ensuring I got ample rest. However, two days after completing the antibiotics, my throat—which had felt considerably better—has now regained its painful condition. Since June 6, this situation has persisted without much fluctuation. I’m apprehensive about the idea of having my tonsils surgically removed just yet. Am I entitled to request another round of antibiotics? My GP advised me to return to the clinic on Friday the 18th (a week post my last treatment) if the pain continues, which, given how things are going, seems likely. This is taking a toll on my well-being. I accept that I should have quit smoking sooner, but I've made that change now. Is there anything else I can do? Should I consider returning to my GP on Monday instead of waiting for the scheduled appointment?
Answers (1)
7/12/2025, 5:40:38 PM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you’ve been through a lot with your persistent tonsillitis, and it's understandable to want to find effective relief. You've made significant efforts, like quitting smoking and engaging with your healthcare provider, which is commendable. Given your ongoing symptoms, let's clarify the main points and outline some actionable steps.
Main Points:
- Persistent Symptoms: You are experiencing continuous throat pain with white patches, indicating possible ongoing infection or irritation.
- Impact of Smoking: Quitting smoking is a positive step for your throat health and overall well-being.
- Follow-up with Your GP: Your healthcare provider suggested a follow-up if symptoms persist after your last course of antibiotics.
Explanation:
Persistent tonsillitis can sometimes occur due to various reasons, including bacterial infections that are resistant to treatment, viral infections, or even other irritants like smoke. Antibiotics can help clear bacterial infections, but if symptoms return shortly after treatment, further investigation may be needed. Given your situation, waiting until Friday may not be the best option if your symptoms worsen.
Next Steps:
- Monitor Your Symptoms: Keep a daily record of your symptoms (pain level, any new developments, or changes). This will be helpful for your GP.
- Consider Early Follow-Up: If your throat pain intensifies or if you develop fever, difficulty swallowing, or breathing, contact your GP sooner than Friday. Your health is a priority, and it’s better to seek assistance earlier if needed.
- Continuation of Self-Care:
- Hydration: Drink plenty of fluids to keep your throat moist and help ease irritation.
- Rest: Ensure you’re getting adequate sleep to support your immune system.
- Salt Water Gargle: Gargling with warm salt water several times daily may help soothe your throat.
- Avoid Irritants: Continue to avoid smoke and other irritants which could exacerbate your condition.
- Discuss Further Treatment Options: If your symptoms persist after consulting your GP, discuss the possibility of further tests—these may include throat cultures or considering referral to an Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) specialist for a more comprehensive evaluation.
You've taken an important step by quitting smoking, which will assist in healing. Stay proactive about your health, and don't hesitate to reach out to your GP if you feel the need arises. Please take care and let me know if you need more assistance!
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