What Causes Enlarged Tonsils And Difficulty In Swallowing While On Antibiotics For Strep?

Posted on Fri, 4 Mar 2016

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Fri, 4 Mar 2016 Answered on

Fri, 13 May 2016 Last reviewed on

Question : Hi, I have strep, currently and am on an antibiotic. I woke up this morning and I feel my tonsils have enlarged and there is a piece of "flab" hanging down that makes it difficult to swallow.

Answered by Dr. Chobufo Ditah (6 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Add Tylenol and Ibuprofen

Detailed Answer:
Hi and thank you so much for this query.

I am so sorry to hear about this pain an the difficulty swallowing. These symptoms of pain and swelling are not unexpected and should have been managed as well. It is wise to take pain medications to allow for an acceptable pain control while the antibiotic works to eradicate the infection. For this, add tylenol and Ibuprofen for two days and all will be fine.

I hope this helps. I wish you well. Feel free to ask for more information and clarifications if need be. Above all, thanks for using our services.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar

Follow up: Dr. Chobufo Ditah (4 minutes later)

Thank you, but what about the flap that I have where it feels like I have something stuck on the back of my throat?

Answered by Dr. Chobufo Ditah (8 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
The anti-inflammatory drugs will cause that to regress!

Detailed Answer:
Hi,

This is caused by inflammation. It will regress as the anti-inflammatory drugs start working and the infection is controlled. I wish you well and let me know whether you have any further concerns that I should be addressing at this time.

Keep me updated!

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar