What should you know about the cause of tonsillitis?

The tonsils are tissue at the back of the throat that helps recognise germs. Respiratory viruses can inflame them along with the surrounding throat. Bacterial infection can produce a similar illness and may need a different treatment decision. A sore throat, fever, swollen glands, difficulty swallowing and earache may accompany tonsillitis. Symptoms alone cannot reliably identify the germ, and a coated or enlarged tonsil does not by itself prove a bacterial cause. Infection can pass through close contact and respiratory droplets.

Rest, drink fluids in small frequent amounts, and choose soft foods if swallowing hurts. Warm drinks or cool fluids may soothe the throat; avoid smoke and other irritants. A GP Consultation can assess the throat, glands and general condition and decide whether testing or treatment is appropriate. Antibiotic Treatment is useful for selected bacterial infections, but it does not treat viral tonsillitis. Do not use leftover antibiotics or share them.

Seek urgent medical care for difficulty breathing, inability to swallow saliva, drooling, a muffled voice, severe one-sided throat pain, inability to open the mouth, or rapidly increasing swelling. These features can signal a complication around the tonsil. Arrange assessment when fever persists, swallowing becomes difficult, symptoms keep returning, or a person is becoming dehydrated. Emergency help is needed if breathing is affected or the person is unusually drowsy.

Ask whether the pattern fits a viral illness or needs a bacterial test, how to manage pain safely, which warning signs to watch for, and whether repeated episodes require further review. Mention allergies, pregnancy, immune problems and medicines you already take.