What should you know about pharyngitis and tonsillitis?

Pharyngitis can cause widespread scratchiness, redness and pain behind the mouth. Tonsillitis may make the tonsils visibly enlarged, red or coated and can cause pain felt in the ear. Strep throat is one possible bacterial cause, but many throat infections are viral. A clinician considers your symptoms, examination findings and general health together.

Drink regularly, rest and choose cool or soft foods if swallowing is uncomfortable. Follow label directions for any pain medicine and check first if you have another condition, take regular medicines or are caring for a child. Avoid smoke and do not share drinks. A GP consultation can clarify whether a throat test or antibiotic treatment is appropriate.

Seek urgent care for breathing difficulty, drooling, inability to swallow fluids, a muffled voice, or rapidly increasing swelling. Arrange prompt medical review for severe one-sided pain, persistent fever, dehydration, repeated episodes or symptoms that are worsening rather than easing. These patterns can signal a complication requiring examination.

Ask whether your tonsils are inflamed as well as the throat, whether strep testing is suitable, how to manage swallowing pain, and which changes should prompt urgent care.