Tonsillitis is an infection and swelling of the tonsils (the two lumps at the back of the throat). It’s common in kids and usually manageable with the right care.
Signs to Watch For
- Sore throat and painful swallowing
- Fever and swollen neck glands
- Red, swollen tonsils with white spots or blisters
- Bad breath, tiredness, headache
- Noisy sleep, loud snoring, or gasping at night
Causes, Diagnosis, and Care
Causes
- Strep throat (bacteria): The most concerning and needs treatment.
- Other bacteria or viruses: Can also infect the tonsils.
How Providers Check
- Rapid strep test: Quick throat swab in the office.
- Throat culture: Sent to a lab if the rapid test is negative but strep is still suspected.
- Exam: Your provider looks at the throat and overall symptoms to guide care.
Treatment
- If strep: Antibiotics are prescribed—give every dose, even after your child feels better.
- If viral: Antibiotics do not help; focus on comfort and healing.
Home Care Tips
- Plenty of fluids; soft, cool foods (popsicles, yogurt, soups)
- Rest
- Acetaminophen or ibuprofen for pain/fever (use as directed; no aspirin for children)
- Good oral hygiene: Brush teeth and tongue to lower mouth bacteria
- Cool-mist humidifier; warm saltwater gargles if old enough
Surgery and When To Seek Care
When Surgery May Help (Tonsillectomy)
- Recurrent infections over time (for example, many bouts in 1–3 years)
- Large tonsils causing sleep problems, loud snoring, gasping, or pauses in breathing
Mild, occasional snoring alone is usually not a reason for surgery—talk with your provider if sleep is noisy or breathing seems to pause.
Recovery Basics (After Tonsillectomy)
- Recovery often takes about two weeks for adults (kids may bounce back sooner).
- Hydration is key. A scab forms where the tonsils were removed; getting dried out can make it fall off early and bleed.
- Seek care right away for any bleeding, severe pain not helped by medicine, or signs of dehydration.
Call the Doctor If:
- Sore throat with fever lasts more than 2–3 days
- Trouble breathing, drooling, or severe trouble swallowing
- Very little urine, dry mouth, or no tears (dehydration)
- No improvement after 48–72 hours on antibiotics
- Worsening pain, neck swelling, or one-sided severe throat pain (possible abscess)
- Any bleeding after a tonsillectomy
If your child has a bad sore throat or you’re worried about strep, get checked.