Tonsillitis

Tonsillitis is swelling and infection of the tonsils, the two pads of tissue at the back of the throat. Tonsillitis symptoms include a sore throat, red and swollen tonsils, and pain when swallowing. Most cases are viral, but strep needs antibiotics.

What Is It

Viruses that cause colds cause most tonsillitis and sore throats. Strep bacteria cause about 1 in 3 cases in children and fewer in adults. Tonsillitis is most common in school age children. Repeat infections may lead to a referral to an ear, nose, and throat specialist.

Symptoms

Sore throat and pain when swallowing
Red, swollen tonsils
White or yellow patches on the tonsils
Fever
Tender, swollen glands in the neck
Bad breath or a muffled voice

Not sure what is causing it? A sudden sore throat with fever and no cough may be strep throat. Swollen tonsils with deep tiredness in a teen may be mono.

Treatment

At your visit: A provider examines your throat and may test for strep and mono. Strep tonsillitis is treated with antibiotics. Viral tonsillitis is treated with pain relief and fluids. An abscess behind the tonsil needs more care.

At home:

Drink warm tea, broth, or cold fluids
Gargle with warm salt water
Use throat lozenges for older children and adults
Use over the counter pain relievers as directed

Viral tonsillitis usually improves within 7 to 10 days. Strep improves within 1 to 2 days of antibiotics.

When to Get Care for Tonsillitis

Watch at Home

A mild sore throat with a runny nose and cough
Able to swallow and drink
No fever, or a low fever

Come to Urgent Care Today

Sore throat with fever and no cough
White patches on the tonsils
A sore throat lasting more than 2 days
Swollen, tender neck glands
Repeat sore throats or tonsillitis

Go to the Emergency Department

Trouble breathing or noisy breathing
Drooling or unable to swallow saliva
Unable to open the mouth fully, or a muffled voice
Swelling on one side of the throat that pushes the uvula over

FAQ

What are the symptoms of tonsillitis?

The symptoms of tonsillitis include a sore throat, red and swollen tonsils, pain when swallowing, fever, and swollen neck glands. White patches may appear on the tonsils.

Is tonsillitis contagious?

Tonsillitis is contagious, because the viruses and bacteria that cause it spread through coughs, sneezes, and shared cups.

How long does tonsillitis last?

Viral tonsillitis usually lasts 7 to 10 days. Strep tonsillitis improves within 1 to 2 days of starting antibiotics.

Is tonsillitis the same as strep throat?

No, tonsillitis is swelling of the tonsils from any cause. Strep throat is one cause of tonsillitis. A rapid strep test tells the difference.

Can urgent care treat tonsillitis?

Yes, urgent care can treat tonsillitis. Vitality Urgent Care offers rapid strep and mono testing. No appointment or referral is needed.

When do tonsils need to be removed?

Tonsils may need removal after frequent infections, often 7 or more in a year, or when they block breathing. An ear, nose, and throat specialist decides.

Last reviewed October 2026