Prevalence of Acute Tonsillitis and Its Association With Oral Hygiene Among the Population of Taif City, Saudi Arabia

Introduction  Dental surfaces have dense bacterial deposits, and poor oral hygiene can exacerbate bacterial infections, causing acute tonsillitis. The study aims to quantify acute tonsillitis prevalence and assess its association with oral hygiene practices. Methods  A descriptive cross-sectional study aimed to assess the prevalence of acute tonsillitis and its association with oral hygiene was conducted among adults aged 20 and above in Taif City, Saudi Arabia. Illiterates and those unwilling to participate were excluded. We employed an Arabic online self-administered questionnaire that was disseminated conveniently via Google Forms to social media assessing oral hygiene such as last dental visit, age at starting dental care, number of toothbrushes per day, frequency of toothbrush change, and duration of brushing teeth, and acute tonsillitis characteristics of the participants. Results About 393 participated in the study. Of them, 54% were aged 20-30, 53% were males, and 70% had a university education. The prevalence of acute tonsillitis was 64%. Approximately 28% reported dental clinic visits within three months, and 21% initiated oral hygiene practices at age 20. Among participants, 43% brushed twice daily, with 33% spending one minute and 43% two minutes. About 31% replaced toothbrushes every three months, while 23% acknowledged having bad breath. Experiencing bad breath, changing toothbrushes every three months, and having dental visits within less than three months were associated with having acute tonsillitis (p<0.05). However, regression analysis revealed that experiencing bad breath (OR: 2.11, 95% CI: 1.23, 3.70) was associated with a higher risk of acute tonsillitis, while less frequent toothbrush changes correlated with a lower risk (OR: 0.54, 95% CI: 0.30, 0.94). Conclusion  This study revealed a substantial prevalence of acute tonsillitis among adults in Taif City. Oral care practices need improvement. There are significant associations between oral hygiene practices, bad breath, and the occurrence of acute tonsillitis. Addressing oral hygiene practices could be a key focus for preventative measures.

Assessment of Patients' Quality-of-Life Post-Thyroidectomy

INTRODUCTION

The assessment of quality of life (QOL) after thyroidectomy has been a focus of medical research, aiming to understand its impact on patients' overall well-being and functional status. Studies have examined the physical, psychological, and social dimensions of QOL, providing valuable insights into the outcomes of thyroidectomy and improving patient care. The aim of the study is to evaluate the long-term impact of different aspects of patients' quality of life post-thyroidectomy.

METHODS

This cross-sectional study was conducted in Taif City and included 100 participants post-thyroidectomy. Data were collected from medical records and telephone interviews using the modified Arabic version of the EROTC QLQ-H&N43 questionnaire. The collected data were analyzed using R software version 4.2.2.

RESULTS

The majority of the 100 participants were female (76%), and most were over 50 years old (38%). The types of surgery performed included hemithyroidectomy (36%), subtotal thyroidectomy (6%), and total thyroidectomy (58%). Participants reported difficulties related to their senses, body satisfaction, sexual satisfaction, eating, speaking, and social interactions. Pain in the mouth and jaw, as well as swallowing difficulties, showed variations among the surgery groups. Other symptoms, such as tooth problems, dry mouth, and swelling in the neck, did not differ significantly among the groups. Numbness in the hands or feet was associated with a subtotal or total thyroidectomy. Difficulties with enjoying meals, eating in front of others, and communication issues showed variations among the surgery groups.

CONCLUSION

This study provided insights into the QOL of thyroidectomy survivors in Taif City. Participants reported challenges related to sensory, body, and sexual issues, as well as difficulties with eating, speaking, and social interactions. The findings highlight the need for interventions and support to address these challenges and optimize the QOL of thyroidectomy patients. Furthermore, research is warranted to explore specific factors contributing to these difficulties and to develop targeted interventions for better patient outcomes.