How common is fever in tonsillitis?

Tonsillitis is inflammation of the tonsils. Fever may appear with a sore throat, painful swallowing, swollen or coated tonsils, tender glands in the neck, headache, and feeling generally unwell. Tonsillitis can have different causes, including viral infections and bacterial infections, and the treatment depends on the cause.

A clinician can look at your throat and ask about associated symptoms. Cough, nasal symptoms, or hoarseness may point toward a viral illness, but no single symptom settles the diagnosis. Fever can be absent in some cases, so its absence does not rule out tonsillitis.

Sip water or other suitable fluids frequently. Warm drinks, cool liquids, and soft foods may make swallowing easier. Rest and avoid smoke or other throat irritants. Use fever or pain relief only as directed on the label or by a healthcare professional, taking account of age, pregnancy, allergies, and other medicines.

Arrange an assessment when throat pain is severe, symptoms are not settling, or drinking is becoming difficult. Do not start leftover antibiotics: they will not help every cause of tonsillitis and may delay the right care.

Seek urgent care if you cannot swallow saliva, are drooling, have noisy or difficult breathing, develop marked one-sided throat swelling, or cannot keep fluids down. Emergency help is appropriate for severe breathing difficulty, confusion, collapse, or signs of serious dehydration.

Does the appearance of my tonsils suggest a viral or bacterial cause? Do I need a throat swab? Which fever medicine is suitable for me, and what symptoms should prompt a review?