Old toothbrushes should be replaced to prevent reinfection. People who are caring for someone with tonsillitis should wash their hands frequently, to prevent spreading the infection to others. Streptococcus pyogenes A common bacterium that causes strep throat and can also cause tonsillitis. Tonsillectomy A surgical procedure to remove the tonsils if the patient has recurrent sore throats or throat infections, or if the tonsils have become so swollen that the patient has trouble breathing or swallowing. Tonsils Oval-shaped masses of glandular tissue located on both sides at the back of the throat.
Tonsils act like filters to trap bacteria and viruses.
In Diseases, edited by Margaret Eckman and Nancy Priff. Springhouse Corporation, 1997. In The Consumer's Medical Desk Reference, edited by Charles B. Inlander and the staff of the People's Medical Society. A Stonesong Press Book, 1995. In Everything You Need to Know about Diseases, edited by Michael Shaw.