Tonsillitis (tonsil infection)
About Tonsillitis (tonsil infection)
An infection of the tonsils. The infection can be caused by a bacterium such as streptococcus or a virus such as Ebstein-Barr virus, which causes infectious mononucleosis. Tonsils are located at the back of the throat. It can be very difficult to differentiate between a bacterial and viral cause without performing a rapid strep test or throat culture. Rarely, some cases of tonsillitis can turn into an abscess (peritonsillar abscess) requiring drainage of the infected fluid.Symptoms
Sore throat, difficulty swallowing, fever, chills, headache, ear pain, voice changes, loss of voice, bad breath.Tests & Diagnostics
A history and physical exam will be performed. A rapid stress test and/or throat culture can help differentiate between a viral and bacterial cause. A blood test for mononucleosis may also be done.OTC sleep aids and supportive treatments
Prescription medications
Conventional treatment summary
Therapy depends on the cause of the tonsillitis but may include: antibiotics, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications/NSAIDs (ibuprofen/Motrin or Advil, naproxen/Naprosyn), pain medications such as acetaminophen (Tylenol), and steroids. Some tonsillitis cases are not bacterial and antibiotics will not be helpful. Surgery to remove the tonsils may be recommended for repeated infections.Medical specialties
Internal Medicine · Pediatrics · Family Practice · Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) · Pediatric ENT (Otolaryngology)
This page is educational content, not medical advice. Always consult a qualified clinician for diagnosis and treatment of Tonsillitis (tonsil infection).