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Mild severity · General Physician

Tonsillitis

Inflamed tonsils · Sore throat

Inflammation of the tonsils, usually from a virus or bacteria, causing a painful throat and trouble swallowing.

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At a glance
Prevalence
Common in school-age children
Typical age
3-15 years, also adults
Outlook
Treatable; surgery only if recurrent
System
Lungs
Reviewed by a verified General Physician doctor
What causes it

Causes

  • Viral infections (most cases)
  • Streptococcus bacteria
  • Close contact in schools
  • Low immunity
  • Repeated throat infections
How it feels

Symptoms & effects

  • Sore throat and painful swallowing
  • Red, swollen tonsils with white patches
  • Fever and bad breath
  • Tender neck glands
  • Muffled or scratchy voice
How it’s treated

Treatment & cure

  • Rest, fluids and warm gargles
  • Paracetamol or ibuprofen for pain
  • Antibiotics only for confirmed strep
  • Tonsillectomy for frequent recurrences
  • Throat lozenges for relief
Staying ahead

Prevention

  • Wash hands and avoid sharing food
  • Avoid close contact with infected people
  • Strengthen general immunity
  • Treat strep fully to prevent complications

Do’s

  • Gargle with warm salt water
  • Drink warm soothing fluids
  • Finish the full antibiotic course if prescribed
  • Rest the voice

Don’ts

  • Stop antibiotics early when prescribed
  • Share spoons, glasses or food
  • Ignore a sore throat with high fever
  • Smoke during recovery
See a doctor immediately if

Symptoms are sudden or severe, getting worse despite home care, or interfering with sleep, work or daily life. Don’t self-diagnose from the internet — book a verified clinician below.

Top specialists

Top 4 doctors for Tonsillitis

Ranked by patient rating, years of experience and review volume. All verified by MediConsult’s clinical team.

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NK 1

Dr. Nirav Kikani

ENT · 5 yrs

0 (0)
VED endoscopic and laser ENT hospital · 2nd floor
Next slot By appointment · ₹1200
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VM 2

Dr. Vinas Mangukiya

Dermatology · 5 yrs

5 (2)
Shreeji Hospital · Near Ashirwad Township
Next slot By appointment · ₹1000
View Book
ZS 3

Dr. ZALAK SAVANI

Physiotherapy · 3 yrs

5 (1)
Koshiya's Physiotherapy · 402
Next slot By appointment · ₹800
View Book
KR 4

Dr. Kunjanben Rami

Homeopathy · 20 yrs

0 (0)
Dr.Kunjan's Homeopathic clinic · 1
Next slot By appointment · ₹2000
View Book
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Disclaimer · This article is educational and reviewed by clinicians, but it cannot replace an in-person assessment. Medication doses, prevention advice and treatment choices vary by person. Always confirm with a doctor before acting on anything here.