Tonsilitis: what can I do?

Factual Questions
1

So for the last 36 hours and counting my left tonsil has been swollen to the size of a grape:( :mad: :mad: :frowning:

Turning my head is not fun at all, swallowing is RIGHT OUT, I’ve been spitting into a coffe cup to avoid swallowing! Talking is a pain in the jaw to say the least. I’ve also been running a low grade fever and getting some chills here and there, most noticable when I am awakened at night due to the pain.

I’ve been taking Ibuprofen 400 mg every six hours and gargling with salt water. I’ve also been whittling down the freeze pop collection in my freezer which is nice as I am moving in 72 hours so that’s one less thing to pack.

Keeping in mind that I have no insurance. what are my options? Anyone else have any remedy ideas?

I’m pretty much betting the farm that it’s viral tonsilitis (localized pain, no pain in throat, behind jawline which IIRC eliminates Pharyngitis and or mumps. My hope is that it will run it’s course but if its bacterial, will the salt water help? Or am I going to be forced to find some way to obtain some penicillin or erythromycin? Speaking of, how much will a course of those run me?

I really need to get this cleared up as I am packing my whole house by myself and I’m telling you its hell with the constant pain and extreme tiredness!

2

Just statistically speaking, and without examining you at all, the chance that it is a strep tonsillitis is at least 20%. You might consider an urgent care center in your area; check on the fees ahead of time, and negotiate a payment plan. Strep really should be diagnosed and treated, as it can lead to significant heart and kidney disease if left untreated. The sore throat will eventually go away whether it’s treated or not, but the risk of organ damage is still there. They should be able to do a rapid strep test at the office, and tell you right away.

PCN and Erythro are pretty damned cheap, you should be able to get a full course of therapy for under $10 drug costs.

Otherwise it’s care and comfort measures. Ibuprofen and acetaminophen are fair pain relievers. Gargle with whatever works for you. Salt water, hydrogen peroxide (dilute), chloraseptic spray, lozenge sucking, etc. For more effective pain management you’ll need to see a practitioner like a doctor.

QtM, MD