Remedies for tonsillitis in adults

Tonsillitis is inflammation of the tonsils at the back of the throat. Viruses commonly cause it, but bacteria such as those responsible for Strep Throat can also be involved. A sore throat may occur with fever, swollen glands, painful swallowing or earache because throat nerves can refer discomfort toward the ear.

Home care can reduce irritation, but it does not identify the cause. A clinician may examine your throat and decide whether testing or prescription treatment is appropriate.

Sip cool or warm fluids, choose soft foods, and avoid smoke or other throat irritants. Rest and use paracetamol or ibuprofen only if suitable for you and according to the product instructions. Do not share medicines or take leftover antibiotics. Antibiotic Treatment is useful only when a clinician believes a bacterial infection needs it; it will not treat a viral illness.

A GP Consultation can help if symptoms are troublesome, recur, or do not begin to settle. Gargling with warm salty water may soothe an adult throat, but do not swallow the mixture.

Seek urgent help if you have difficulty breathing, cannot swallow fluids, are drooling, develop rapidly increasing swelling, or sound unusually muffled. Arrange medical advice promptly for marked one-sided throat pain, dehydration, a persistent high fever, or symptoms that are worsening rather than easing.

Could this be bacterial, and do I need a throat test? Which pain relief is suitable with my medicines or health conditions? What signs would mean I need urgent review?