How to Relieve Pain in Children With Tonsillitis

Nearly every child in American experiences tonsillitis at least once, according to the American Academy of Otolaryngology--Head and Neck Surgery. Caused by bacteria or a virus, tonsillitis is an inflammation of the pharyngeal tonsils in the back of the throat. Whether acute, recurrent or chronic, tonsillitis causes throat pain, fever, difficulty swallowing, pain with swallowing, and tenderness in the lymph notes. If you suspect your child has tonsillitis, he should be seen by a physician--who will likely prescribe an antibiotic--and treated for his pain.

Things You'll Need

• Over-the-counter analgesic
• Liquids
• Easy-to-swallow foods
• Humidifier
• Compress

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Instructions

Treating Pain and Discomfort of Tonsillitis

• 1

  Administer children's acetaminophen or ibuprofen every four to six hours. These analgesics will relieve the pain and reduce the fever.

• 2

  Have your child drink plenty of fluids to soothe the throat. Though swallowing may be difficult and painful, not getting enough fluids could lead to dehydration and make the child more ill while increasing her pain and discomfort.

• 3

  Give your child liquid or other easy-to-swallow foods, such as lukewarm broths, gelatin and applesauce. KidsHealth recommends avoiding hard, crunchy and spicy foods that could aggravate the tonsillitis.

• 4

  Place a vaporizer or humidifier in the child's room, especially if the child is congested. Added moisture can help open the nasal passages so the child can breathe through his nose instead of his mouth. A humidifier will also ease dryness in the throat.

• 5

  Gargle with warm saltwater. Add 1/2 tsp. of salt to an 8 oz. glass of warm water and stir well before gargling.

• 6

  Place a warm or cold compress on the outside of the throat, depending on which is more soothing for your child. Use a cold compress if the child has a fever.