Strep throat on tonsils: what to know

Strep throat is an infection caused by group A Streptococcus bacteria. The tonsils may look enlarged and red, sometimes with pale spots or a coating. A sore throat, fever, and tender swollen glands in the neck can occur together. These findings overlap with viral infections and tonsillitis, so appearance alone cannot identify the cause.

A clinician may examine your throat, ask about cough and other symptoms, and decide whether a rapid test or throat swab is appropriate. The result guides whether antibiotic treatment is useful.

Drink fluids in small, frequent amounts and choose soft foods if swallowing is uncomfortable. Rest, avoid sharing cups or utensils, and wash your hands regularly. A pharmacist or clinician can help you choose a suitable pain or fever medicine, taking account of your age, pregnancy, allergies, and other medicines.

Arrange a GP Consultation if symptoms are significant, persist, or make eating and drinking difficult. Do not use leftover antibiotics or someone else’s prescription; treatment should follow an assessment and the recommended course should be completed.

Seek urgent medical help if you cannot swallow saliva, have trouble breathing, develop rapidly increasing swelling, or cannot open your mouth normally. Prompt assessment is also needed for marked one-sided throat pain, a muffled voice, dehydration, or worsening illness.

Could this be strep throat, a virus, or tonsillitis? Do I need a throat test? Which medicines are suitable for me, and what warning signs should prompt an urgent review?