Angina – What Is It and Why Is It Important to Recognize It Early?
Angina, also known as acute tonsillitis, is an inflammatory disease of the upper respiratory tract that affects the palatine tonsils. This condition most often develops as a result of an infection, which may be viral or bacterial in origin. Viral angina can be caused by various viruses, such as rhinoviruses, adenoviruses, or other respiratory viruses, while bacterial angina is most commonly caused by group A beta-hemolytic streptococcus.
Angina is a common condition affecting both children and adults, especially during the colder seasons when respiratory infections spread more actively. Although in many cases the illness resolves without serious consequences, certain forms of angina may lead to complications, making it important to pay attention to symptoms and seek medical care in a timely manner.
Angina is most often caused by a viral or bacterial infection. Viruses that can cause angina include a wide range of pathogens, from common cold viruses to the Epstein–Barr virus, which causes infectious mononucleosis. Bacterial angina is most commonly associated with Streptococcus pyogenes, which causes so-called streptococcal angina.
The disease spreads via airborne droplets—when coughing, sneezing, talking, or even breathing near an infected person. Infection may also be transmitted through direct contact or shared objects, such as dishes, towels, or toys.
In addition to infectious causes, angina-like symptoms in some cases may be related to:
allergic reactions,
irritation of the mucous membranes due to dry air,
tobacco smoke or other environmental factors,
side effects of certain medications.
Symptoms of angina may vary depending on the causative agent, but the most common signs include:
severe sore throat,
pain or discomfort when swallowing,
fever,
enlarged and tender lymph nodes in the neck,
red and swollen tonsils,
white or yellowish patches on the tonsils,
unpleasant breath odor.
A sore throat is often the first and most pronounced symptom. It may be accompanied by general weakness, headache, or muscle aches. Fever can be high and is sometimes associated with chills.
In children, abdominal pain may occasionally occur, which is more commonly associated with bacterial, particularly streptococcal, angina.
Because these symptoms can also be characteristic of other respiratory illnesses, an accurate diagnosis should be made by a healthcare professional.
Depending on the causative agent and the course of the disease, angina can be classified into several forms.
Viral angina is usually milder and resembles a common cold or flu. Typical symptoms include:
sore throat,
cough,
runny nose,
general fatigue,
moderate fever.
This form of angina is characterized by more pronounced symptoms:
severe sore throat,
high fever,
painful cervical lymph nodes,
prominent patches on the tonsils.
If left untreated, bacterial angina may lead to complications, which is why early recognition is important.
Chronic angina presents with recurrent or long-lasting symptoms of tonsillar inflammation. It may cause:
persistent throat discomfort,
swallowing or breathing difficulties,
more frequent infections.
The diagnosis of angina is usually based on clinical symptoms and a physical examination. If streptococcal infection is suspected, laboratory tests such as a rapid antigen test or a throat swab may be performed.
Treatment depends on the cause of angina:
In cases of viral angina, symptomatic treatment is applied, including rest, adequate fluid intake, and pain- and fever-relieving measures.
In cases of bacterial angina, a physician may prescribe antibiotics to reduce symptoms, prevent complications, and limit the spread of infection.
It is important to follow medical recommendations and not to stop prescribed treatment prematurely.
Although not all cases of angina can be prevented, certain measures can help reduce the risk:
frequent handwashing,
proper cough and sneeze hygiene,
avoiding close contact with sick individuals,
sufficient rest and a balanced diet,
maintaining overall health and immune system function.
Angina is a common but potentially serious condition that requires attention. Early recognition of symptoms, accurate diagnosis, and appropriate treatment help reduce the risk of complications and ensure faster recovery. Awareness and preventive measures are an important part of daily health care.
