Tonsillitis is an inflammation of the tonsils, which are two oval-shaped pads of tissue located at the back of the throat, one on each side. Tonsils are part of the immune system, acting as a first line of defense against bacteria and viruses entering the body through the mouth.
Causes
Tonsillitis is most commonly caused by viral infections, such as those that cause the common cold or flu. However, it can also be caused by bacterial infections, most notably by Streptococcus pyogenes (Group A Streptococcus), the bacterium responsible for strep throat.
Less common causes can include other bacteria or fungi.
Types of Tonsillitis
Acute tonsillitis: Symptoms last for 7-10 days.
Recurrent tonsillitis: Multiple episodes of acute tonsillitis within a year.
Chronic tonsillitis: Persistent sore throat, bad breath, and tender lymph nodes in the neck.
Peritonsillar abscess: A more severe complication where pus collects behind the tonsil.
Symptoms
Symptoms of tonsillitis can vary depending on the cause and severity, but commonly include:
Sore throat: Often severe and can make swallowing difficult.
Swollen, red tonsils: Sometimes with white patches or streaks of pus.
Difficulty or painful swallowing.
Fever.
Enlarged, tender lymph nodes in the neck.
Hoarse or muffled voice.
Bad breath.
Headache.
Stomachache and vomiting (especially in younger children).
In viral tonsillitis, symptoms like cough, runny nose, and sneezing are often also present. In bacterial tonsillitis (strep throat), these symptoms are typically absent, but rash (scarlet fever) may be present.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis usually involves:
Physical examination: A doctor will look at the throat and tonsils, check for swollen lymph nodes, and listen to breathing.
Throat swab (rapid strep test or throat culture): To determine if the cause is bacterial (strep throat). This is important because bacterial tonsillitis requires antibiotic treatment.