Tonsillitis is an inflammation of the tonsils located at the
back of the throat. It is generally due to either viral or
bacterial infection (often by the streptococcal bacteria),
and causes swelling and redness of the tonsils, possibly
with white or yellow spots of pus. The adenoids may also
become inflamed and infected.
Tonsillitis can occur at
any time but is particularly common during childhood.
In rare cases complications such as quinsy (an abscess
behind the tonsil), kidney inflammation, or rheumatic
fever may develop.
Symptoms
• swelling and tenderness of the lymph nodes in the neck
• sore throat with pain on swallowing
• headache, earache, and general weakness and malaise
• fever
• bad breath
• constipation
Tonsillitis is more common in children than in adults.
Tonsillitis usually develops suddenly as a result of a
streptococcal infection but may also be caused by a viral
infection.
In chronic tonsillitis the tonsils tend to flare up in
episodes of acute infection, causing scarring that makes
them difficult to treat in subsequent attacks.
