Tonsillitis — Online Consultation & Treatment
Get professional medical care for tonsillitis and severe sore throats. Speak to qualified UK clinicians online with same-day appointments and prescriptions.
- Professional online consultation and treatment advice
- Same-day prescriptions when appropriate
- Secure video consultations from home
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What is Tonsillitis?
Tonsillitis is inflammation of the tonsils, the two lymph nodes located at the back of the throat. It's commonly caused by viral or bacterial infections and is characterized by sore throat, fever, and often white spots or patches on the tonsils.
Common Symptoms
- Severe sore throat
- Fever and chills
- White or yellow spots on tonsils
- Red, swollen tonsils
- Difficulty swallowing
- Swollen lymph nodes in neck
- Bad breath (halitosis)
- Ear pain
- Headache
- Loss of appetite
Common Causes
- Viral infections (common cold, flu, Epstein-Barr virus)
- Bacterial infections (Group A Streptococcus)
- Weakened immune system
- Close contact with infected individuals
- Exposure to cigarette smoke
- Allergies
- Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
- Dry air
How Our Online Consultation Can Help
- Distinguish between viral and bacterial tonsillitis
- Prescribe antibiotics when bacterial infection is suspected
- Recommend appropriate pain relief and symptom management
- Assess severity and need for hospital care
- Provide guidance on home care and recovery
- Determine if specialist ENT referral is needed for recurrent cases
Home Care
- Gargle with warm salt water
- Drink plenty of fluids
- Rest and sleep
- Use throat lozenges or sprays
- Take over-the-counter pain relief
- Use a humidifier
- Avoid irritants like smoke
Medical Treatments
- Antibiotic therapy for bacterial tonsillitis
- Prescription pain relief
- Anti-inflammatory medications
- Corticosteroids for severe swelling
- Hospitalization for severe cases
- Tonsillectomy for recurrent tonsillitis
Commonly Prescribed Medications
Penicillin V
First-line antibiotic for bacterial tonsillitis (strep throat)
Clarithromycin
Alternative antibiotic for patients allergic to penicillin
Prednisolone
Corticosteroid to reduce severe throat swelling
Benzydamine (Difflam)
Anti-inflammatory throat spray for pain relief
When to Seek Urgent Care
- Difficulty breathing or swallowing
- Severe difficulty opening mouth (trismus)
- High fever above 39°C (102.2°F)
- Drooling due to inability to swallow
- Muffled or 'hot potato' voice
- Signs of dehydration
- Suspected peritonsillar abscess
- No improvement after 3-4 days of antibiotic treatment
If you experience any of these symptoms, seek immediate medical attention by calling 999 or visiting your nearest A&E.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I tell if my tonsillitis is bacterial or viral?
Bacterial tonsillitis often has white patches, high fever, and swollen lymph nodes. Our clinicians can assess your symptoms to determine the likely cause.
Do I always need antibiotics for tonsillitis?
Only bacterial tonsillitis requires antibiotics. Viral tonsillitis is managed with supportive care and symptom relief.
How long does tonsillitis typically last?
Viral tonsillitis usually resolves in 7-10 days. Bacterial tonsillitis improves within 2-3 days of starting antibiotics.
Is tonsillitis contagious?
Yes, both viral and bacterial tonsillitis can be contagious through respiratory droplets. Avoid close contact until fever-free for 24 hours.
When might I need my tonsils removed?
Tonsillectomy may be considered for recurrent tonsillitis (7+ episodes in one year) or chronic problems affecting quality of life.
Can adults get tonsillitis?
Yes, while more common in children, adults can develop tonsillitis. It may be more severe in adults and take longer to recover.
Medically Reviewed by: Mohammed Hassan - Independent Prescriber
Last Updated: January 2025