Tonsillitis

Also known as: inflammation of the tonsils.

What is tonsillitis?

Tonsillitis is an infection of the tonsils, which are a pair of oval-shaped pads that rest at the back of the throat. Tonsillitis can cause a number of problematic symptoms and tends to recur in many people.

What causes tonsillitis?

Tonsillitis is typically caused by either viruses or bacteria. Group A streptococcus is the most common bacteria that cause tonsillitis.

What are the symptoms of tonsillitis?

Swollen tonsils, a yellow coating on the tonsils, pain when swallowing, fever, sore throat, tender glands, a stiff neck, headache and stomach ache are all possible symptoms of tonsillitis.

What are tonsillitis care options?

Home treatments such as rest, plenty of fluids, humidified air, lozenges and gargling saltwater can help with symptoms. Antibiotics can treat bacterial tonsillitis.

If tonsillitis becomes a frequent problem, surgical removal of the tonsils is a common procedure.


Reviewed by: Yamilet Tirado, MD

This page was last updated on: July 22, 2022 10:54 AM

Infectious Diseases

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