Tonsillitis
Last Updated: July 3, 2026
Key Points
- Infection of the tonsils in the throat
- Common in children, also affects adults
- Usually caused by viruses, sometimes bacteria
- Symptoms often clear within 3 to 4 days
Overview
Tonsillitis is an infection affecting the tonsils, which are two small glands located at the back of your throat. It is a very common condition, particularly among children, but it can also affect teenagers and adults. Most cases of tonsillitis are caused by viruses, similar to those that cause the common cold or flu. Less often, bacteria, such as those responsible for strep throat, can be the cause. The symptoms often resemble a bad cold or flu, including a sore throat and difficulty swallowing. Symptoms typically improve on their own within a few days. Treatment focuses on relieving discomfort with home remedies and over-the-counter medications. If a bacterial infection is confirmed, antibiotics may be prescribed by a doctor.
Signs and Symptoms
- Sore throat
- Difficulty swallowing
- High temperature
- Coughing
- Headache
- Feeling or being sick
- Earache
- Feeling tired
- Swollen, painful glands in the neck
- Pus-filled spots or white patches on tonsils
- Bad breath
Things That Increase the Risk
- Being a child or teenager
- Frequent exposure to viruses (e.g., colds, flu)
- Close contact with infected individuals
- Recurrent throat infections
Diagnosis
- Doctor reviews symptoms
- Physical examination of the throat
- Throat swab test for bacteria
- Blood test for glandular fever (if severe or persistent)
Treatment & Management
- Plenty of rest
- Drinking cool liquids to soothe throat
- Taking paracetamol or ibuprofen for pain
- Gargling with warm salty water (adults only)
- Using throat lozenges or sprays
- Antibiotics for bacterial tonsillitis
- Tonsil removal (rare, for severe recurrent cases)
Prevention
- Staying home when unwell
- Covering mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing
- Washing hands frequently
- Avoiding close contact with sick individuals
- Maintaining good overall hygiene
Available Treatments
Explore our range of treatment options for Tonsillitis:
Surgical Options
Learn about surgical procedures available for Tonsillitis:
Contents
Quick Info
Affects
Children, teenagers, adults
Prevalence
Common childhood illness
Diagnosis
Throat exam, swab test
Treatment
Rest, pain relief, sometimes antibiotics
Medically Reviewed
Dr. Vijay Bhat
Orthopedic Surgeon · Apollo Hospitals, Chennai
Reviewed on July 3, 2026
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