How long does tonsillitis last?

The throat may feel raw at first, with swollen tonsils, painful swallowing, Fever, or tender Swollen Glands. Symptoms can improve gradually rather than disappearing together. A bacterial infection, including Strep Throat, may need assessment because treatment decisions depend on examination and the wider symptom pattern. Repeated episodes or symptoms that linger after the initial illness may have another explanation, so the duration itself is useful information for a clinician.

Sip water or another suitable drink regularly, rest, and use soft foods when chewing or swallowing is uncomfortable. Gargling with warm salty water may soothe the throat for adults and older children who can gargle safely. Use pain or fever medicine only as directed for the person taking it. Do not start leftover antibiotics: Antibiotic Treatment should be selected by a clinician when a bacterial cause is likely.

Book a GP Consultation when symptoms are not easing, return repeatedly, or interfere with drinking, eating, sleep, or normal activity. Get urgent help for breathing difficulty, inability to swallow fluids or saliva, dehydration, a muffled voice, difficulty opening the mouth, or swelling that is clearly worse on one side. An Earache or continuing Fever can also warrant assessment when it accompanies a sore throat.

Tell the clinician when symptoms began and whether they are improving, then ask whether the tonsils need testing, what duration is reasonable for your situation, and which changes should prompt an earlier review.