What should you know about start of tonsillitis?

The tonsils may look red and enlarged, and you may notice white patches or a change in your voice. Symptoms can develop over a short time and may occur with a cold-like illness. Bacteria such as those that cause strep throat can also affect the tonsils, so symptoms alone cannot always identify the cause.

Tonsillitis is inflammation of the two pads of tissue at the back of the throat. A sore throat is a common presentation of tonsillitis, while earache can occur because the throat and ear share nearby nerve pathways. Swollen glands may reflect the immune system responding to infection; they do not by themselves show whether the cause is viral or bacterial.

A clinician may examine your throat, tonsils, neck, and general condition. Depending on the findings, they may consider a throat test or another explanation for the symptoms. Antibiotics help only when a bacterial infection is suspected or confirmed, and they do not treat viral illnesses.

Rest, drink fluids regularly, and choose cool or soft foods if swallowing hurts. Warm drinks, salt-water gargles for suitable older children and adults, and avoiding smoke can make the throat more comfortable. Use paracetamol or ibuprofen only if it is suitable for you and follow the package directions; do not give aspirin to children.

Arrange a GP consultation if symptoms are severe, keep returning, do not begin to improve, or make drinking difficult. Do not use leftover antibiotics or share a prescription. If a clinician prescribes antibiotic treatment, take it exactly as directed and seek advice if symptoms worsen or a reaction develops.

Seek urgent medical help if you are struggling to breathe, cannot swallow saliva, are drooling, or have rapidly increasing swelling in the throat or neck. Urgent assessment is also needed for a muffled voice, difficulty opening the mouth, severe one-sided throat pain, or signs of dehydration such as very little urine and marked dizziness.

A fever with a worsening sore throat, rash, profound weakness, or confusion deserves prompt assessment. Children who are unusually sleepy, refusing fluids, or breathing noisily should be assessed without delay.

Ask what features suggest a viral illness or strep throat, whether testing is needed, which pain relief is suitable for your age and health, and what warning signs should prompt a return visit. If tonsillitis keeps recurring, ask whether another throat condition or an ear problem could be contributing.