Tonsils

Tonsillitis: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatments

At the back of your throat, two masses of tissue called tonsils act as filters, trapping germs that could otherwise enter your airways and cause infection. They also produce antibodies to fight infection. But sometimes the tonsils themselves become infected. Overwhelmed by bacteria or viruses, they swell and become inflamed, a condition known as tonsillitis.

Tonsillitis is common, especially in children. The condition can occur occasionally or recur frequently.
Causes and Symptoms of Tonsillitis

Bacterial and viral infections can cause tonsillitis. A common cause is Streptococcus (strep) bacteria. Other common causes include:
• Adenoviruses
• Influenza virus
• Epstein-Barr virus
• Parainfluenza viruses
• Enteroviruses
• Herpes simplex virus
The main symptoms of tonsillitis are inflammation and swelling of the tonsils, sometimes severe enough to block the airways. Other symptoms include:
• Throat pain or tenderness
• Redness of the tonsils
• A white or yellow coating on the tonsils
• Painful blisters or ulcers on the throat
• Headache
• Loss of appetite
• Ear pain
• Difficulty swallowing or breathing through the mouth
• Swollen glands in the neck or jaw area
• Fever, chills
• Bad breath
In children, symptoms may also include:
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Abdominal pain