Tonsillitis

Tonsillitis is an inflammation of the tonsils, often caused by a virus or bacteria. Inflamed tonsils swell and cause pain, especially when swallowing. The lymph nodes in the neck may also enlarge and become tender. While tonsillitis often resolves on its own, antibiotic treatment may be needed in some cases.

Contents:

• Symptoms of Tonsillitis
• Causes of Tonsillitis
• Treatment for Tonsillitis
• Self-Care Instructions
• When to seek medical care?
• How Can Dokport Help?

Symptoms of Tonsillitis

Symptoms usually appear a few days after exposure, lasting one to two weeks. Initial signs include swollen, inflamed tonsils, often with white spots. The throat feels sore, especially when swallowing, and lymph nodes may enlarge. Fever is also common. Viral tonsillitis may also cause cold-like symptoms, such as a runny nose and cough. Severe cases can lead to a peritonsillar abscess, requiring medical attention.

Symptoms of the peritonsillar abscess include difficulty opening the mouth, trouble swallowing, and one-sided throat pain.

Causes of Tonsillitis

Tonsillitis can be caused by viruses or bacteria, with viruses being the most common cause. The most common bacterial cause is streptococcus, which spreads easily through close contacts. Recurrent tonsillitis can sometimes be linked to an asymptomatic carrier within the household.

Treatment for Tonsillitis

Most cases of tonsillitis resolve without specific treatment. If symptoms persist beyond a week, visiting a doctor may be necessary. A doctor can perform a throat swab test and prescribe antibiotics if needed. Although streptococcal tonsillitis isn’t usually dangerous without antibiotics, treatment can speed recovery.

If tonsillitis recurs frequently or leads to a peritonsillar abscess, tonsil removal may be considered.

Self-Care Instructions

Viral tonsillitis typically resolves on its own. Rest and hydration are essential. Eating soft or liquid foods may be helpful when swallowing is painful, and cold foods like ice cream can soothe a sore throat.

Over-the-counter lozenges and antiseptic rinses may relieve pain. Pain killers also help manage symptoms.

Tonsillitis is easily contagious, so hygiene is key:

• Wash hands frequently and avoid sharing towels with others.
• Replace your toothbrush after the infection to prevent reinfection.
• Avoid strenuous activities and stay home until fever-free for at least one day.

When to seek medical care?

Seek medical attention if tonsillitis doesn’t improve within a couple of weeks, or if there is high fever and severe throat pain without other cold symptoms. For recurring tonsillitis or swollen lymph nodes in the neck, further evaluation may be necessary.

Urgent care is advised if you have one-sided throat pain, difficulty opening the mouth, swallowing, or breathing.

How Can Dokport Help?

Dokport remote care clinic provides quick assistance for tonsillitis treatment. Our doctors can assess your symptoms via chat and photos, give home-care advice, prescribe medications if needed, or suggest further tests. If required, we can recommend an in-person visit for a thorough assessment.

Expert: Dr. Anna Sipilä, MD, Associate Professor of Experimental Internal Medicine