What should you know about bacterial tonsillitis?

The tonsils sit at the back of the throat and help detect germs. When bacteria infect them, they can become swollen, red and painful. Fever, sore throat, painful swallowing, bad breath and swollen neck glands may occur; earache can happen because throat and ear nerves overlap. Strep throat is one possible bacterial cause.

Viral infections can produce a similar picture, so swollen tonsils or a coating does not identify the cause by itself. A GP may examine your throat, feel the neck glands and decide whether testing or treatment is appropriate.

Rest and drink regularly, choosing cool fluids or warm drinks according to what feels soothing. Soft foods can be easier to swallow. A pharmacist can advise on suitable pain or fever relief after checking your age, allergies, pregnancy status and other medicines.

If bacterial infection is diagnosed and antibiotics are prescribed, take them exactly as directed. Do not share them or use medicine left from a previous illness. Wash your hands and avoid sharing utensils while you are unwell.

Arrange a GP consultation for persistent or worsening throat pain, repeated fever, difficulty eating or drinking, or symptoms that interfere with normal activities. Seek urgent care for breathing difficulty, drooling, inability to swallow saliva, severe one-sided swelling, a muffled voice or inability to open the mouth normally.

Ask whether the tonsils look more consistent with bacterial or viral infection, whether a test is useful, how to ease swallowing and when you should return if the symptoms do not improve.