One sided swollen tonsil, also known as unilateral tonsillar enlargement, is a condition where one of your tonsils becomes larger than the other.
This can cause a range of uncomfortable symptoms such as sore throat, hoarseness, difficulty swallowing and earache.
In many cases, the cause of this condition is unknown; however, it is often associated with viral or bacterial infections.
What is One-sided Swollen Tonsil
One-sided swollen tonsil, also known as unilateral tonsillar enlargement, is a condition in which one of the two tonsils located at the back of the throat becomes larger than the other. This condition is usually accompanied by a range of uncomfortable symptoms, such as sore throat, hoarseness, difficulty swallowing and earache.
Understanding the condition is important in order to determine the cause and provide effective treatment. In most cases, the cause of one-sided swollen tonsil is unknown; however, it can be associated with viral or bacterial infections, such as strep throat.
Causes of One-Sided Swollen Tonsil
Tonsillitis
1. Bacterial tonsillitis
Bacterial tonsillitis is a common cause of one-sided swollen tonsils. It is an infection of the tonsils caused by bacterial pathogens such as Streptococcus pyogenes (also known as strep throat). Symptoms include red, swollen, and painful tonsils, difficulty swallowing, white patches on the throat and fever.
2. Viral tonsillitis
Viral tonsillitis is another common cause of one-sided swollen tonsil. It is an infection of the tonsils caused by a virus, such as the Epstein-Barr virus or human herpesvirus 6 (HHV-6). Symptoms include red and swollen tonsils, difficulty swallowing, fever, and sore throat.
Abscess formation
Abscess formation is another possible complication of one-sided swollen tonsil. It occurs when bacteria or other pathogens invade and cause an infection in the affected area, resulting in a buildup of pus that forms an abscess. Symptoms include severe pain, fever, and difficulty swallowing. Treatment typically involves draining the abscess with surgery or antibiotics.
Tonsil stones
Tonsil stones, also known as tonsilloliths, are calcified clusters of bacteria and debris that can form in the crevices of the tonsils. These stones can cause one-sided swollen tonsil, as well as other symptoms such as sore throat, difficulty swallowing and bad breath.
Allergies
Allergies are another possible cause of one-sided swollen tonsil. When an allergen, such as dust, pollen or pet dander, comes in contact with the throat and nose, the body releases histamines to fight off the invading particles.
Tumors or growths
Tumors or growths are another potential cause of one-sided swollen tonsil. These can be benign (noncancerous) tumors such as polyps, or cancerous tumors such as lymphoma.
Symptoms of One-Sided Swollen Tonsil
Enlargement and inflammation of the tonsil on one side
The most common symptom of one-sided swollen tonsil is an enlargement and inflammation of the tonsil on one side. This symptom can be accompanied by a range of other symptoms, such as sore throat, hoarseness, difficulty swallowing, earache, and painful swallowing.
Sore throat
Sore throat is a common symptom of one-sided swollen tonsil, and can range from mild to severe in intensity. Symptoms include a scratchy or burning sensation in the throat, difficulty swallowing, and enlarged tonsils on one side. In some cases, a person may also experience an increase in saliva production or have pain when talking or eating.
Difficulty swallowing
Difficulty swallowing is a common symptom of one-sided swollen tonsil. This symptom may be accompanied by pain or a feeling of tightness in the throat, as well as by an increased salivation. Other symptoms such as hoarseness, sore throat and earache may also accompany difficulty swallowing.
Earache
Earache is another possible symptom of one-sided swollen tonsil. It can range from a mild ache to a sharp pain in the affected ear, and may be accompanied by other symptoms such as difficulty swallowing, sore throat, hoarseness, and enlarged tonsils on one side.
Bad breath
Bad breath is another symptom that may accompany one-sided swollen tonsil. It can range from a mild odor to an unpleasant and strong smell. In some cases, it may be accompanied by a bitter taste in the mouth or a feeling of dryness in the throat.
Swollen lymph nodes on one side of the neck
Swollen lymph nodes on one side of the neck can be an indication of one-sided swollen tonsil. These swollen lymph nodes are usually located in the area near the ear and jaw, and may cause pain and tenderness when touched.
Diagnosis of One-Sided Swollen Tonsil
Physical examination
A physical examination is the first step in diagnosing one-sided swollen tonsil. During a physical exam, the doctor will observe the size and shape of the affected tonsil, as well as check for any swelling or redness. The doctor may also use a lighted instrument to examine the throat and look for signs of infection or other abnormalities.
Medical history review
The doctor may also ask the patient for a full medical history review in order to diagnose one-sided swollen tonsil. This review may include questions about any recent illnesses, infections, or environmental exposures that may have caused the enlarged and inflamed tonsil.
Throat swab for laboratory testing
Throat swab for laboratory testing is a common diagnostic procedure used to diagnose one-sided swollen tonsil. During the procedure, a cotton swab is inserted into the back of the throat and gently rubbed against the inner lining of the throat wall.
Imaging tests (such as CT scan or MRI)
Imaging tests can be used to diagnose one-sided swollen tonsil. These tests allow the doctor to get a detailed view of the structures in and around the throat, such as the tonsils, lymph nodes, and other soft tissues.
Biopsy (if necessary)
In some cases, a biopsy may be necessary to diagnose one-sided swollen tonsil. During a biopsy procedure, a small sample of tissue from the affected tonsil is taken and sent to a laboratory for further examination. The sample can then be examined under a microscope to look for any abnormalities or signs of infection.
Treatment Options
Antibiotics for bacterial infections
Antibiotics are the most common treatment option for one-sided swollen tonsil caused by bacterial infections. Depending on the type of bacteria present, a doctor may prescribe a course of antibiotics to reduce symptoms and reduce the risk of further complications.
Antiviral medication for viral infections
Antiviral medication is often prescribed to treat one-sided swollen tonsil caused by viral infections. These medications work by interfering with the ability of the virus to replicate and spread, thus allowing the body’s own immune system to fight off the infection.
Pain relievers and anti-inflammatory drugs
Pain relievers and anti-inflammatory drugs can help reduce the pain and inflammation associated with one-sided swollen tonsil. Over-the-counter medications such as ibuprofen, aspirin, or acetaminophen can be used to reduce discomfort and swelling.
Warm saltwater gargles
Warm saltwater gargles are a simple and effective way to reduce the swelling and pain associated with one-sided swollen tonsil. To prepare the solution, mix one teaspoon of salt in eight ounces of warm water. Gargle with the solution for 30 seconds up to three times per day until symptoms begin to improve.
Removal of tonsil stones
Tonsil stones, otherwise known as tonsilloliths, are small, hard deposits that can form in the crevices of the tonsils and cause one-sided swollen tonsil. These deposits can range in size from a few millimeters to several centimeters and may be yellow or white in color.
Drainage or surgical removal of abscess
In some cases, one-sided swollen tonsil may be caused by an abscess, or pocket of pus, that has formed in the throat. In such situations, a doctor may recommend drainage or surgical removal of the abscess in order to reduce symptoms and improve healing.
Allergy management
Allergies often play a role in one-sided swollen tonsil. Allergic reactions can cause the body to produce histamine, which in turn causes swelling and inflammation of the tonsils. To reduce symptoms associated with an allergic reaction, it is important to identify and avoid any potential allergens.
Tumor or growth treatment options
In some cases, one-sided swollen tonsil may be caused by a tumor or growth. In such cases, treatment options may include surgery, radiation therapy, and/or chemotherapy. Surgery is the most common option for removing tumors or growths in the throat area.
Complications and Prevention
If left untreated, one-sided swollen tonsil can lead to serious complications. These may include sleep disturbances, difficulty swallowing and breathing, and an increased risk of infection spreading to other parts of the body.
In order to reduce the risk of developing one-sided swollen tonsil, it is important to take certain preventive measures.
Conclusion
One-sided swollen tonsil is a common condition that can be caused by a variety of factors, including bacterial or viral infections, allergies, tumors or growths, and tonsil stones. Fortunately, with the right treatment plan, such as antibiotics for bacterial infections, antiviral medications for viral infections, pain relievers and anti-inflammatory drugs to reduce discomfort and swelling, warm saltwater gargles, removal of tonsil stones, drainage or surgical removal of abscesses, allergy management, and tumor or growth treatment options such as surgery, radiation therapy, and/or chemotherapy, one-sided swollen tonsil can be effectively treated. It is also important to take preventive measures to reduce the risk of developing this condition.
