Does a GP consultation treat tonsillitis?

Tonsillitis is inflammation of the tonsils and may cause a sore throat, painful swallowing, swollen neck glands, fever or white patches. A GP examines the throat and may consider how quickly symptoms started, exposure to illness and other symptoms. Many cases are linked to viruses and improve with supportive care; some cases may need specific treatment after clinical assessment. A consultation also helps identify problems such as dehydration, a deeper throat infection or breathing difficulty that require a different level of care.

Rest, drink frequent fluids and choose soft foods if swallowing hurts. Paracetamol or ibuprofen may help some people with pain or fever, but check the label and ask a pharmacist if the medicine is suitable for you or your child. Do not give aspirin to children. Avoid sharing cups and utensils, wash hands often and stay away from close contact while feverish. If a GP prescribes medicine, use it as directed and complete the advised course unless a clinician tells you otherwise. Read more about [Tonsillitis](/conditions/tonsillitis/) and [GP Consultation](/treatments/consultations-and-assessment/gp-consultation/).

Seek urgent medical help for difficulty breathing, inability to swallow saliva, drooling, a muffled voice, severe one-sided throat pain, swelling inside the mouth or rapidly worsening symptoms. Get prompt advice if you cannot keep fluids down, pass very little urine or become unusually sleepy, because these can signal dehydration. A sore throat with a widespread rash, marked weakness or persistent fever also deserves medical assessment.

Ask: Does the examination suggest a viral or bacterial cause? What can I use safely for pain? How much should I drink? When can I return to school or work? Which changes mean I should seek urgent help?