Tonsillitis: symptoms, causes & treatment in Nigeria
Also known as swollen tonsils, throat infection.
This page is general health information, not a diagnosis. Always consult a licensed clinician about your own health.
Overview
Tonsillitis is infection of the tonsils — the two glands at the back of the throat — causing sore throat, painful swallowing and fever, most commonly in children and young adults. Most cases are viral and settle on their own; bacterial cases respond to antibiotics a clinician prescribes.
Symptoms
Sore throat and painful swallowing
Red, swollen tonsils, sometimes with white spots
Fever
Swollen, tender neck glands
Headache
Bad breath
Voice changes or refusal to eat in children
Causes & risk factors
Viral infections (most cases)
Streptococcal bacterial infection
Close contact with infected people
School-age children most affected
Treatment & self-care
Rest, warm fluids, salt-water gargles and paracetamol-type relief manage viral tonsillitis, which clears within about a week; doctors prescribe antibiotics when a bacterial cause is likely. Repeated severe episodes year after year may justify surgical removal of the tonsils after ENT review. Complete any antibiotic course fully.
See a doctor urgently if
Difficulty breathing or swallowing saliva — emergency
Severe one-sided throat pain with muffled voice (possible abscess)
Sore throat with rash or dark urine
Fever beyond three days or repeated episodes
Frequently asked questions
What are the first signs of Tonsillitis?
Early signs often include sore throat and painful swallowing, red, swollen tonsils, sometimes with white spots, fever. Symptoms vary from person to person, so a proper assessment by a doctor is the only way to be sure.
Can Tonsillitis be treated?
Rest, warm fluids, salt-water gargles and paracetamol-type relief manage viral tonsillitis, which clears within about a week; doctors prescribe antibiotics when a bacterial cause is likely. Repeated severe episodes year after year may justify surgical removal of the tonsils after ENT review. Complete any antibiotic course fully.
When should I see a doctor about Tonsillitis?
See a doctor promptly if you notice: difficulty breathing or swallowing saliva — emergency; severe one-sided throat pain with muffled voice (possible abscess); sore throat with rash or dark urine; fever beyond three days or repeated episodes.