Tonsillitis

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Sep 1, 2024.

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What is tonsillitis?

Tonsillitis is inflammation of your tonsils. Tonsils are the lumps of tissue on both sides of the back of your throat. Tonsils are part of your immune system. They help you fight infections. Tonsillitis may be caused by a bacterial or a viral infection. Recurrent tonsillitis is tonsillitis that happens at least 5 times in 1 year. Chronic tonsillitis lasts 3 months or longer.

What are the signs and symptoms of tonsillitis?

• Severe sore throat
• Red, swollen tonsils
• Painful swallowing
• Fever and chills
• Bad breath
• White spots on the tonsils

How is tonsillitis diagnosed?

Your healthcare provider will examine your ears, nose, and throat and ask about your symptoms. You may also need any of the following:

• A throat culture may show which germ is causing your illness. A cotton swab is rubbed against the back of your throat.
• Blood tests may show if you have an infection caused by bacteria or a virus.

How is tonsillitis treated?

Treatment may decrease your signs and symptoms. Treatment also may lower the number of times that you get tonsillitis in a year. You may need any of the following:

• Acetaminophen decreases pain and fever. It is available without a doctor's order. Ask how much to take and how often to take it. Follow directions. Read the labels of all other medicines you are using to see if they also contain acetaminophen, or ask your doctor or pharmacist. Acetaminophen can cause liver damage if not taken correctly.
• NSAIDs , such as ibuprofen, help decrease swelling, pain, and fever. This medicine is available with or without a doctor's order. NSAIDs can cause stomach bleeding or kidney problems in certain people. If you take blood thinner medicine, always ask your healthcare provider if NSAIDs are safe for you. Always read the medicine label and follow directions.
• Antibiotics help treat a bacterial infection.
• Steroids may be given for a short time to relieve swelling.
• A tonsillectomy is surgery to remove your tonsils. You may need surgery if you have chronic or recurrent tonsillitis. Surgery may also be done if antibiotics are not working.

How can I manage my symptoms?

• Rest when you feel it is needed. Slowly start to do more each day, as directed.
• Drink liquids as directed. You may need to drink more liquid than usual to prevent dehydration. Ask how much liquid to drink each day and which liquids are best for you.
• Gargle with warm salt water. Mix 1 teaspoon of salt in 8 ounces of warm water. Ask how often you should do this.

What can I do to prevent tonsillitis?

Bacteria and viruses that lead to tonsillitis can spread through coughing, sneezing, or touching. The following can help prevent infections:

• Wash your hands often. Wash your hands several times each day. Wash after you use the bathroom, change a child's diaper, and before you prepare or eat food. Use soap and water. Rinse with warm, running water for several seconds. Then dry your hands with a clean towel or paper towel. Use hand sanitizer that contains alcohol if soap and water are not available. Do not touch your eyes, nose, or mouth without washing your hands first.
• Cover a sneeze or cough. Use a tissue that covers your mouth and nose. Throw the tissue away immediately. If you do not have a tissue, use the bend of your elbow. Then wash your hands well or use a hand sanitizer.
• Prevent person-to-person spread of germs. Do not share food or drinks with anyone. Return to work, school, or other activities as directed. Your provider may want you to wait until your fever is gone for at least 24 hours.
• Ask about vaccines you may need. Vaccines help protect you from some bacterial and viral infections. Get the influenza (flu) vaccine as soon as recommended each year, usually in September or October. Get a COVID-19 vaccine and recommended boosters. Get a pneumonia vaccine, if recommended. The pneumonia vaccine is usually recommended every 5 years. Your provider will tell you which other vaccines you need, and when to get them.

Call your local emergency number (911 in the US) if:

• You have trouble breathing because your tonsils are swollen.

When should I seek immediate care?

• You are not able to eat or drink because of the pain.
• Your voice changes.
• You have increased swelling or jaw pain, or you have trouble opening your mouth.
• You have a stiff neck.
• You have not urinated in 12 hours or are very weak or tired.
• You have trouble sleeping and wake up trying to catch your breath.

When should I call my doctor?

• You have a fever.
• Your pain gets worse or does not get better after you take pain medicine.
• Your sore throat is not better after you have finished antibiotic treatment.
• You have questions or concerns about your condition or care.

Care Agreement

You have the right to help plan your care. Learn about your health condition and how it may be treated. Discuss treatment options with your healthcare providers to decide what care you want to receive. You always have the right to refuse treatment. The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.

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