Tonsillitis

Inflammation of the tonsils, two oval-shaped structures on either side of the back of the throat, is known as tonsillitis. Sore throat, difficulty swallowing, swollen tonsils, fever, and, occasionally, white or yellow patches on the tonsils are common signs of this illness, which can be caused by either a viral or bacterial infection. The painful and distressing symptoms of tonsillitis are frequently experienced, especially by children.
Tonsillitis can be either acute or chronic.
- The common cold virus and the Epstein-Barr virus (which causes infectious mononucleosis) are two examples of viruses that can cause tonsillitis. With rest and supportive care, viral tonsillitis usually resolves on its own.
- Tonsillitis caused by bacteria is called bacterial tonsillitis, and it is often caused by Streptococcus bacteria, hence the name "strep throat." Antibiotics may be necessary to treat bacterial tonsillitis and prevent complications like rheumatic fever.
Symptoms of tonsillitis range from a painful throat and fever to swollen and red tonsils, difficulty swallowing, and even enlarged lymph nodes in the neck. If tonsillitis is recurrent or severe, or if it leads to complications like abscess formation, chronic tonsillitis, or difficulty breathing and swallowing, a doctor may recommend treatment options, which can include antibiotics, pain relievers, and in some cases, surgical removal of the tonsils (tonsillectomy). The frequency and severity of tonsillitis bouts, among other considerations, are usually taken into account while deciding whether or not to remove the tonsils.