What should you know about pharyngeal tonsil?

Tonsillitis may cause a sore throat, enlarged or coated tonsils, fever, swollen glands in the neck, bad breath and earache referred from the throat. Symptoms can affect one or both sides. A white coating does not by itself prove a bacterial infection, and symptoms alone cannot determine whether antibiotics will help.

Rest, drink frequent fluids and choose soft foods if swallowing hurts. A suitable pain reliever may ease discomfort when used according to its label and your clinician’s advice. Avoid sharing cups or utensils while ill and wash your hands. Arrange a GP consultation if symptoms are severe, recurrent or not settling, so the throat can be examined and antibiotics considered only when appropriate.

Seek urgent help for difficulty breathing, inability to swallow saliva, drooling, a muffled voice, or swelling that is much worse on one side. Prompt review is also needed for dehydration, marked weakness, or a fever that persists. Ear pain with worsening throat symptoms can require assessment for a complication.

Ask whether the appearance suggests a viral illness or strep throat, whether a throat test is useful, which pain relief is suitable for you, and what symptoms should trigger urgent review.