When should you worry about swollen glands with tonsillitis?

Tonsillitis can activate lymph nodes in the neck as your immune system responds to infection. They may feel tender and sit under the jaw or along the side of the neck. Tender swelling alongside a sore throat, fever, red tonsils or white patches can fit with tonsillitis, but swollen glands can also occur with other infections.

Arrange a clinical assessment if the glands are hard, fixed, steadily enlarging, or remain enlarged after the throat illness has settled. A clinician may examine your throat and neck and decide whether a throat test or other checks are appropriate.

Rest, drink fluids in small frequent amounts, and choose soft foods if swallowing hurts. Follow the label directions for a suitable pain reliever, unless a clinician has told you to avoid it. Do not squeeze the glands or share cups, utensils or toothbrushes while you are unwell.

Keep track of whether pain, fever and neck swelling are improving together. Take any prescribed treatment exactly as directed and complete the course unless the prescriber changes it.

Get emergency help for trouble breathing, inability to swallow saliva, drooling, a muffled voice, severe one-sided throat swelling, or difficulty opening your mouth. These signs can indicate a complication near the tonsil or an airway problem.

Contact a clinician promptly if fever persists, pain is worsening, you cannot keep fluids down, or the glands become increasingly red, hot or painful. Seek review if swelling does not start settling after the throat symptoms improve.

Could the gland location and tenderness fit with my throat infection? Do I need a throat test or treatment? Which symptoms should make me seek emergency help, and when should persistent neck swelling be rechecked?