Tonsillitis is the inflammation of the tonsils. The tonsils are two masses of tissue at the back of the throat, they act like filters, trapping bacteria that could enter the body and cause infection. As the tonsils are the first line of defence on the body, they can often get infected themselves.

Tonsillitis is common in children and teenagers and may be recurring.

The symptoms of tonsillitis are like flu symptoms: headache, fever, chills, throat pain, stiff neck, but usually the tonsils become red and inflamed, at times white or yellow dots cover the tonsils. There may also be swelling in the glands.

Tonsillitis is either caused by a bacterial infection or a virus and is often diagnosed with a throat swab. Tonsillitis caused by a virus can only be treated with rest and plenty of fluids. Oral antibiotics will only be prescribed if the tonsillitis is caused by a bacterial infection. The most usual treatment is a 10 day course of penicillin – if you are allergic to penicillin an alternative antibiotic will be prescribed.

In frequently recurring cases of tonsillitis surgery to remove the tonsils (tonsillectomy) may be required. You should be able to make a complete recovery from surgery within 14 days.