Talking About Tonsilitis: A "Glee" Halter

Dianna Agron, who plays Cheerio cheerleader Quinn Fabray on "Glee," posted this on her own Tumblr blog this weekend: "Note to self...should have gotten a flu shot. In bed, hoping that medicine, soup, my computer and a marathon of movies will be the cure."

Fox TV stopped production of the popular teen series on Friday, December 10^th, as multiple cast members were stricken with sore throats. The group had been filming a musical performance on-set for a special NFL Super Bowl episode, scheduled to air after the big game on Sunday evening, February 6, 2011.

Television insiders have rumored that the "Glee" Super Bowl episode may feature Justin Timberlake, along with music from The Black-Eyed Peas, Michael Jackson, Lady Antebellum, Katy Perry and other high-profile musical acts.

"Glee" production is expected to recommence on Monday, December 13^th, if the young, crooning thespians recover quickly from tonsillitis turmoil are fit to film.

What is tonsillitis?

Tonsillitis, or tonsillopharyngitis, is a painful inflammation of the tonsils, lymphatic tissues located on both sides of the throat - on either side of the pharynx. The contagious illness may be caused by either viral or bacterial infection.

The primary symptoms of tonsillitis are sore throat and fever. Additional complications may include aches, appetite suppression, bad breath, chills, cough, drooling, earache, eye pain, fatigue, headache, hoarse voice, nasal congestion, sinus pain, stiff neck, stomach ache, swallowing pain and swollen tonsils.

Because the tonsils are situated close to the larynx, or voice box, tonsillitis may be accompanied by laryngitis, causing vocal difficulties as well. This tonsillitis symptom has been of particular concern to the "Glee" cast members.

How is tonsillitis treated?

Tonsillitis is often alleviated with over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications (such as acetaminophen, aspirin or ibuprofen), along with plenty of liquids and rest. Salt water gargling, soft foods, warm beverages (such as hot tea or clear soups) and sore throat lozenges may also provide some relief from tonsillitis pain. Usually, tonsillitis will complete its course within a week or so.

In cases of bacterial tonsillitis, prescription antibiotic medications may be used.

Physicians often recommend throat cultures for patients with tonsillitis symptoms, to rule out the possibility of mononucleosis or strep throat.

In severe cases, tonsillitis may require tonsillectomy, surgically removing the tonsils.