Tonsillitis is a common occurrence during childhood. It occurs when the tonsils become inflamed as the body’s immune system attempts to fight off invading viruses or bacteria. Symptoms of tonsillitis include red, swollen tonsils that can be painful and make swallowing difficult. The tonsils may have whitish spots or white covering on them.

Most cases of tonsillitis are caused by viruses, and may include symptoms such as a runny nose, coughing or fatigue. Bacteria, such as those that cause strep throat, are responsible for less than one-third of all childhood cases of tonsillitis. In those cases, symptoms may appear suddenly and be more severe than in viral infections.

Most children experience at least one episode of tonsillitis. It is a contagious infection, common in settings where children are exposed to many other people (e.g., daycare facilities, playgrounds, schools).

Parents who suspect their child has tonsillitis should consult their child’s pediatrician. They may be referred to an ear, nose and throat specialist. A medical history and physical examination may be performed to identify the presence of tonsillitis.

Once diagnosed, determining whether the cause is a bacterial infection (e.g., strep throat) or a viral infection (e.g., cold, the flu) is very important. Bacterial infections will need to be treated with antibiotics, while viral infections generally resolve on their own without treatment.

Parents can help make their child as comfortable as possible during the course of the infection. Home remedies include various methods to soothe a sore throat and ensuring a child with tonsillitis gets adequate rest, nourishment and fluids.

Surgery (e.g., tonsillectomy) is no longer routinely recommended for children with tonsillitis as it was in past decades. However, surgery may be recommended in certain situations, depending on the frequency of infections and presence of complications (e.g., breathing difficulty).