WebMD
Font Size
A
A
A

Tonsillitis

Tonsillitis is an infection or inflammation of the tonsils. The tonsils are part of the immune system and appear as balls of tissue located on either side of the back of the throat, above and behind the tongue.

Tonsillitis is most often caused by a virus. However, it also can be caused by the same bacteria that cause strep throat. The most common symptom of tonsillitis is a sore throat. When examined, the throat may look red and swollen. Additional symptoms such as fever, nasal congestion, and swollen lymph nodes are not uncommon.

Tonsillitis will usually go away on its own. Home treatment measures such as gargling with salt water, drinking warm tea, and taking nonprescription pain medication can help relieve discomfort. Bacterial tonsillitis is often treated with antibiotics to prevent complications, such as rheumatic fever. Surgical removal of the tonsils (tonsillectomy) is sometimes considered as treatment for tonsillitis.

Author Jeannette Curtis
Author Caroline Rea, RN, BS, MS
Editor Kathleen M. Ariss, MS
Editor Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA
Associate Editor Tracy Landauer
Associate Editor Pat Truman
Primary Medical Reviewer Patrice Burgess, MD
- Family Medicine
Primary Medical Reviewer Adam Husney, MD
- Family Medicine
Primary Medical Reviewer Kathleen Romito, MD
- Family Medicine
Last Updated May 25, 2007

WebMD Medical Reference from Healthwise

Last Updated: May 25, 2007
This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information.