What is tonsillitis?
A person with tonsillitis has inflammation of the tonsils, caused by an infection by bacteria or viruses. The tonsils become swollen in response to the infection. Severe tonsillitis may result in a peritonsillar abscess. About 1 out of 10 children visit the doctor for tonsillitis each year in the US.

What are the symptoms of tonsillitis?
The most common symptoms of tonsillitis include a severe sore throat, throat redness, and swollen tonsils. Pus may be present on the surface of the tonsils. Additional symptoms of tonsillitis include difficulty swallowing, headache, fatigue, fever, and swollen lymph nodes in the neck.

How does the doctor treat tonsillitis?
Treatment for tonsillitis may include rest, plenty of liquids, throat lozenges, antibiotics, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications for pain and fever. Surgery may be required for those who have multiple episodes of tonsillitis.