Symptoms and causes
The tonsils look red and swollen, and swallowing hurts. You may also have a fever, tender neck glands, or white patches on the tonsils. Most cases are viral; a cough and runny nose point that way. A high fever, pus on the tonsils, tender neck nodes, and no cough raise suspicion for strep, and a rapid strep test can confirm it.
Treatment and tonsillectomy
Viral tonsillitis usually clears within a week with rest, fluids, and over-the-counter pain relievers. Confirmed strep is treated with antibiotics; finish the full course even if you feel better. A tonsillectomy is considered for frequent recurrences (for example, 7+ episodes in one year) or a peritonsillar abscess. Trouble swallowing saliva or breathing is an emergency. See also sinusitis and ear infections.
This article is general health information and is not a substitute for diagnosis or treatment. If symptoms persist, see a doctor.
FAQ
- Is tonsillitis contagious?
- Yes, the viruses and bacteria behind it spread through coughs and shared cups. Handwashing helps.
- Do I always need antibiotics?
- No. They help only for bacterial cases like strep and do nothing against viruses.
Sources reviewed: 2026-10-26
References
- Windfuhr, J. P., et al. (2016). Clinical practice guideline: tonsillitis I. Diagnostics and nonsurgical management. European Archives of Oto-Rhino-Laryngology, 273(4), 973–987.
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Strep Throat: All You Need to Know. CDC.
- National Institute for Health and Care Excellence. (2018). Sore throat (acute): antimicrobial prescribing (NG84). NICE.