3 Ways to Prevent Tonsillitis
Tonsillitis is a common infection that affects the tonsils. The tonsils are two small glands located in the back of your throat. They help fight off infection and protect against disease. A virus most commonly causes tonsillitis, and it can be very unpleasant. If you are experiencing symptoms of tonsillitis, it is best to get it checked by the ent specialist. Here, we will discuss three ways to prevent tonsillitis from occurring in the first place.
Maintain Good Oral Hygiene
The number one way to prevent tonsillitis (or any infection in the mouth, for that matter) is to practice good oral hygiene. This means brushing your teeth and using floss and mouthwash. It is also essential to avoid smoking and excessive alcohol use, as these can irritate the throat and make you more susceptible to infection. One mistake many people make is brushing their teeth once a day, only in the morning, which is not enough to remove all the plaque and bacteria from your mouth. It is best to brush your teeth at least once at night before going to bed as well. If you have floss, you should use it at least once a day to get rid of any food particles that may be stuck in your teeth.
Avoid Sharing Drinks or Utensils
Another way to prevent tonsillitis is to avoid sharing drinks or utensils with others. This is because the viruses that cause tonsillitis can be easily spread through saliva. If you must share a drink, be sure to use a straw. And, if you are using utensils, be sure to wash them thoroughly with soap and water before using them.
Many think tonsil infections are contagious only when you are sick, but that is not the case. In fact, you can spread the infection even if you are not currently experiencing any symptoms. So, it is best to play it safe and avoid sharing anything with others. Aside from tonsillitis, other infections can be easily spread through sharing utensils and drinks, such as the flu, pneumonia, and strep throat.
Practice Proper Hand Washing
Lastly, it is important to practice proper hand washing. This means washing your hands often, especially after you have been in contact with someone who is sick. You should also avoid touching your face, as this can help spread the virus. If you do touch your face, be sure to wash your hands immediately afterward.
It takes only a few seconds for the virus to spread from your hands to your eyes, nose, or mouth. And once it enters your body, you are more likely to get sick. Hand washing is one of the best ways to prevent the spread of infection.
By following these simple tips, you can help prevent tonsillitis from occurring in the first place. However, if you do get sick, be sure to see a doctor right away. Tonsillitis can be very uncomfortable, but it is usually not serious. With proper treatment, you will be feeling better in no time. Do you have any other tips for preventing tonsillitis? Share them with us in the comments below.
