Enlargement of Left Tonsil for Over Two Months
Patient Profile: 30-year-old female, 5’5”, weighing 120 pounds, Caucasian. Symptoms Overview: The issue has persisted for 2.5 months, localized to the left tonsil. Medical History: Three years ago, diagnosed with high-risk HPV, subsequently underwent a LEEP procedure. Following this, vaccines were administered, and HPV tests returned negative results. Currently, the patient is not taking any medications. Incident Report: On July 1, I noticed significant swelling and pain in my left tonsil. Given that it was a holiday, I sought immediate care at the emergency room where a throat swab was conducted, which confirmed a strep infection. Antibiotics were prescribed, and while the medication appeared effective initially, the left tonsil remains enlarged compared to the right one. After completing the antibiotic course, I experienced a cold, which exacerbated my condition. Since that time, I've been suffering from a persistent sensation of warmth and a throbbing itch in the affected tonsil. Pressing on it occasionally releases some white fluid. The right tonsil appears normal and is of standard size. I have no fever, and the tonsil does not exhibit significant redness, except for its notable enlargement—around three to four times the size of the opposite tonsil. I am becoming increasingly anxious due to the duration of these symptoms and the unilateral nature of the swelling. Seeking advice: Is this a typical issue? Should I be alarmed? Would a visit to the emergency room be advisable tonight?
Answers (1)
9/14/2025, 11:20:36 PM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable to feel anxious about the persistent swelling of your left tonsil, especially given the duration and nature of the symptoms you've described. Here's a summary of the situation and some steps you can take.
Main Points
- Your left tonsil has been enlarged for over two months, particularly following an initial strep infection.
- It's normal to feel concerned since persistent swelling and symptoms can indicate underlying issues.
Explanation
The persistent enlargement of your left tonsil could be due to several factors, including residual effects from the previous strep infection, chronic inflammation, or the presence of other conditions like an infection or benign growths. The sensation of warmth and itchiness, coupled with the discharge you've noticed, suggests ongoing irritation or possible infection. While many cases can resolve with time, given that this has persisted for over two months, it is important to closely monitor your symptoms.
Next Steps
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Self-Monitoring: Keep track of any changes to your symptoms. Note if the swelling increases, or if you experience pain, fever, or difficulty swallowing.
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Hydration & Rest: Stay well-hydrated and allow your body to rest. This can help manage irritation in your throat.
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Warm Salt Gargles: Gargling with warm salt water can soothe the throat. Mix about half a teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water and gargle several times a day.
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Avoid Irritants: Stay away from smoking and other irritants like strong cleaning chemicals or allergens that can further irritate your throat.
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Revisit a Healthcare Provider: Since the symptoms have been persistent and you're experiencing increasing anxiety, it would be wise to follow up with an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist. They can conduct a thorough examination and may recommend further tests, such as imaging or a biopsy, if deemed necessary.
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Emergency Care: If you develop additional troubling symptoms like difficulty breathing, severe pain, or if the swelling abruptly worsens, it would be wise to seek emergency care.
While it is understandable that the prolonged nature of your symptoms can cause concern, many people experience similar issues without severe complications. Taking the time to address this with a specialist can provide clarity and peace of mind. Let me know if you need further assistance!
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