Tonsillitis – Symptoms and Causes

ByJanis Updated

Throat Inflammation Overview

Tonsil inflammation occurs when the oval-shaped tissues at the back of your throat become swollen and irritated. These tissues sit on each side of the throat. When inflamed, you might notice several symptoms.

Your tonsils may appear red and enlarged. You might feel pain when swallowing. The lymph nodes on the sides of your neck may become tender and swollen.

Most cases stem from viral infections that are common in our environment. However, bacterial infections can also cause this condition. Getting the right diagnosis is key because treatment differs based on what caused the inflammation.

In the past, removing these tissues was a standard treatment. Today, doctors usually recommend surgery only for people who get frequent infections, don’t respond to other treatments, or develop serious complications.

Health Solutions

  • Over-the-counter pain relievers to reduce throat discomfort
  • Throat lozenges to soothe irritation
  • Warm salt-water gargles to reduce swelling
  • Antibiotics (for bacterial infections only)
  • Plenty of fluids and rest to support recovery

Signs of Tonsillitis

Tonsillitis affects mainly children from preschool to teenage years. The condition shows several clear signs:

Physical signs in the throat:

  • Tonsils that appear red and swollen
  • Yellow or white patches coating the tonsils
  • Sore, painful throat
  • Trouble swallowing

Other common symptoms:

  • Fever
  • Swollen, tender neck glands
  • Voice changes (scratchy or muffled)
  • Bad breath
  • Stomach pain
  • Neck stiffness or pain
  • Headache

Young children who cannot explain their symptoms might show:

  • Drooling because swallowing hurts
  • Not wanting to eat
  • Unusual irritability or fussiness

If you notice these signs, especially in children, medical attention may be needed to determine the cause and proper treatment.

When to See a Doctor

If your child shows signs of tonsillitis, seeking proper medical attention is vital. Contact your doctor if your child has:

  • Sore throat with fever
  • Sore throat lasting more than 24-48 hours
  • Pain or difficulty when swallowing
  • Unusual tiredness, weakness, or irritability

Seek emergency care immediately if your child develops:

  • Breathing problems
  • Severe difficulty swallowing
  • Excessive drooling

These symptoms may indicate a more serious condition that requires prompt medical attention.

Causes

Tonsil infections usually happen because of germs that enter the mouth. Most often, viruses cause these infections, but bacteria can also be responsible.

The most common bacterial culprit is Streptococcus pyogenes, also known as group A streptococcus. This is the same bacterium that causes strep throat. Other types of strep bacteria and various other bacteria can also lead to tonsillitis.

Tonsils serve as guardians at the entrance to your throat. They work as part of your immune system to catch and fight harmful germs that you breathe in or swallow.

This protective job puts tonsils directly in harm’s way, making them easy targets for infection. Interestingly, tonsils become less active after puberty. This explains why adults rarely get tonsillitis compared to children.

Risk Factors

Children between 5 and 15 years old are most likely to get bacterial tonsillitis. Young age is a major risk factor for this condition.

School environments also increase the chance of getting tonsillitis. Children in school settings come into close contact with many other kids, making it easier for viruses and bacteria to spread between them.

Possible Problems

When strep bacteria cause tonsillitis and it’s not properly treated, serious health problems can develop. These rare but concerning complications include:

  • Rheumatic fever – This inflammatory condition can harm the heart, joints, nervous system and skin

  • Scarlet fever complications – Beyond the distinctive rash, untreated scarlet fever can lead to additional health issues

  • Kidney inflammation – Also called poststreptococcal glomerulonephritis, this affects kidney function

  • Joint inflammation – Poststreptococcal reactive arthritis causes painful, swollen joints

Incomplete antibiotic treatment raises the risk of these complications. When a child has strep throat, it’s crucial to finish the entire course of antibiotics, even if symptoms improve quickly.

Other possible complications from chronic tonsillitis include breathing problems during sleep, infection spreading to nearby tissues, and pus collecting behind a tonsil (peritonsillar abscess).

Stopping the Spread

Viral and bacterial tonsillitis spreads easily from person to person. Good hygiene is key to avoiding infection.

Here’s how to help protect your child:

Daily Hygiene Habits

  • Wash hands often with soap and water, especially after bathroom use and before meals
  • Keep personal items personal—don’t share cups, utensils, or food
  • Get a new toothbrush after a tonsillitis diagnosis

When Your Child Is Sick

  • Keep them home from school until they’re no longer contagious
  • Ask your doctor when it’s safe for your child to return to school
  • Teach proper coughing and sneezing techniques:
    • Use tissues when possible
    • Cough or sneeze into the elbow if no tissue is available
    • Wash hands after coughing or sneezing

Teaching children these simple habits helps protect both them and others from getting sick. Regular handwashing remains one of the most effective ways to stop germs from spreading.


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Health Writer

Janis's areas of expertise include nutrition, exercise, stress management, and mental health. She is passionate about educating and empowering people to take control of their health and make positive changes that can last a lifetime. Janis believes that small, sustainable changes are the key to long-term success, and she works with her clients to develop personalized plans that fit their individual needs and lifestyles.