Tonsillitis: Symptoms, Treatment, and Breastfeeding Concerns

Tonsillitis

Hello Doctor, on December 16, I felt discomfort in my throat, and on December 18, I experienced pain in my right ear.
I visited a doctor that day, and it was diagnosed as right-sided tonsillitis.
Since I am currently breastfeeding, the doctor prescribed amoxicillin.
By December 20, my right ear felt somewhat better, but my throat was swollen to the point where I couldn't speak.
I went back to the doctor, and there was only swelling without any pus.
This time, I was prescribed penicillin along with tramadol.
How many days should I expect before the swelling in my throat starts to subside? I am currently having difficulty eating, and I can only drink about one liter of water (which sometimes causes me to choke).
However, I am concerned that taking antibiotics might affect my breast milk, and I hope to manage this with medication.
I am also worried that if I delay treatment, it might worsen.
Additionally, does tramadol have anti-inflammatory properties? If it is primarily for pain relief, I would prefer not to take it, as the side effects are quite significant for me, and taking too much could also impact my breast milk.
Can viruses be transmitted through the air to newborns? I am currently wearing a mask, but during the day, I still need to care for my baby alone and occasionally have to remove the mask.
Thank you for your response.

Chen Mama, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/12/21

Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology

Hello, if diagnosed with acute tonsillitis, it is recommended to continue antibiotic treatment.
Tramadol is primarily for pain relief and does not have significant anti-inflammatory effects.
If throat pain persists and makes it difficult to eat, it is advisable to return for an earlier consultation to adjust medications or assess the need for referral to inpatient treatment.
Wishing you safety and health.
Sincerely, Dr.
Cheng Jue-Yi, Director of the Department of Otolaryngology, Taoyuan Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2021/12/21

More Info

Tonsillitis is an inflammation of the tonsils, often caused by viral or bacterial infections. The symptoms can include sore throat, difficulty swallowing, swollen tonsils, and sometimes fever. In your case, it seems you are experiencing significant discomfort, which is not uncommon with tonsillitis, especially when it leads to complications like ear pain.

Regarding your treatment, amoxicillin is a common antibiotic prescribed for bacterial tonsillitis, and it appears that your doctor switched you to penicillin and tramadol due to the severity of your symptoms. Penicillin is effective against many strains of bacteria that cause tonsillitis, while tramadol is primarily a pain reliever and does not have anti-inflammatory properties. If you are concerned about the side effects of tramadol, it is essential to discuss this with your healthcare provider. They may be able to suggest alternative pain management strategies that are safer for breastfeeding mothers.

As for the duration of your symptoms, tonsillitis can take several days to improve with appropriate antibiotic treatment. Typically, you might start to feel better within 48 to 72 hours after starting antibiotics, but complete resolution of swelling and discomfort can take longer. If you find that your symptoms are not improving or are worsening, it is crucial to follow up with your healthcare provider.

Regarding breastfeeding, it is understandable to be concerned about the effects of antibiotics on your milk supply and your baby. Generally, amoxicillin and penicillin are considered safe during breastfeeding, as they are excreted in very low amounts in breast milk and are unlikely to harm your baby. However, if you have concerns about the impact of medications on your milk supply or your baby’s health, it is best to consult with a lactation consultant or your pediatrician.

In terms of viral transmission, while many respiratory viruses can be transmitted through the air, the risk of transmission to your newborn can be minimized by practicing good hygiene. Wearing a mask is a good precaution, but it is also essential to wash your hands frequently and avoid close contact when possible. If you need to take breaks from wearing the mask to care for your baby, try to ensure that you are in a well-ventilated area and maintain as much distance as possible.

In summary, tonsillitis can be quite uncomfortable, and while antibiotics should help alleviate your symptoms, it may take a few days for you to feel significantly better. Discuss any concerns about pain management and breastfeeding with your healthcare provider to find the best approach for your situation. Additionally, continue practicing good hygiene to protect your newborn from potential infections. If your symptoms persist or worsen, do not hesitate to seek further medical advice.

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