What are the treatment options for tonsillitis?

Tonsillitis is inflammation of the tonsils, often caused by a viral infection but sometimes by bacteria. A clinician considers your throat appearance, fever, swallowing symptoms, general health and how quickly the illness developed. Viral illness usually settles with supportive care. Antibiotics do not treat viruses, so they are used only when the assessment suggests they are appropriate. Read more about [Tonsillitis](/conditions/tonsillitis/).

Drink regularly, choose soft foods if swallowing hurts, and rest. Paracetamol or ibuprofen may help pain or fever when suitable for you; follow the product directions and check before using them in children or with other medicines. A [GP Consultation](/treatments/consultations-and-assessment/gp-consultation/) can check whether testing or treatment is needed. If antibiotics are prescribed, take them exactly as directed and finish the course unless the prescriber changes it. More detail is available under [Antibiotic Treatment](/treatments/medical-management/antibiotic-treatment/).

Arrange medical advice if symptoms are severe, keep returning, or make drinking difficult. Seek urgent help for trouble breathing, inability to swallow saliva, rapidly increasing one-sided throat swelling, confusion, or signs of dehydration such as very little urine and marked dizziness.

Ask: Does this look viral or bacterial? Do I need a throat test? Which pain relief is suitable for me? What should I do if swallowing or breathing becomes harder?