Swollen Tonsils - Symptoms, Causes & Treatments

What Causes Swollen Tonsils?

Tonsillitis, or inflammation or swelling of the tonsils, is usually caused by an infection. A little over half of all tonsillitis cases are caused by viral infections, with the rest caused by bacterial infections.^{1, 2}

The same viruses that cause the common cold can cause tonsillitis. Most cases of bacterial tonsillitis are due to strep throat.^{1, 2}

Tonsillitis often runs its course within about a week, whether viral or bacterial.³ However, bacterial tonsillitis can sometimes lead to more serious systemic illnesses.

Tonsillitis and throat cancer can both present with inflammation of the tonsils. However, throat cancer usually only involves one tonsil.⁴

Symptoms of Tonsillitis

Tonsillitis can have other symptoms beyond tonsil swelling. These may include:^{1, 2}

• Red tonsils, sometimes with a whitish discharge (exudate)
• Sore throat, which may make swallowing painful
• General discomfort or malaise
• Fever
• Swollen lymph nodes in your neck

Tonsillitis can sometimes be associated with tonsil stones, which are small, calcified deposits on the surface of the tonsils.⁵

Tonsillitis and related conditions can be associated with poor oral hygiene, which can also lead to tooth decay and gingivitis. 

When to See a Professional

You should see a dentist or doctor if you have swollen tonsils and feel unwell or suspect you have tonsillitis.

A doctor will examine your throat and take into account the following:²

• Your age
• Whether or not you’ve had a fever, cough, or painful lymph nodes
• Any discharge (exudate) that may be present on your tonsils

You may be given a rapid strep test to determine whether or not you’re dealing with a streptococcus (bacterial) infection.⁷

Once tonsillitis has been diagnosed and your doctor has a good idea of whether it’s viral or bacterial in origin, they can move forward with more specific treatment.

How to Treat Tonsillitis

Home Remedies

Over-the-counter (OTC) medications like acetaminophen and ibuprofen can help reduce the pain and fever associated with tonsillitis.⁷

Warm water, herbal tea, and broth can all provide comfort to your throat and tonsils. Cold foods like ice cream can also have a soothing effect.

Adding honey to warm water or herbal tea may provide additional benefits. Honey has antimicrobial properties and can act as a cough suppressant.⁸

Caffeine and alcohol should be avoided, as they can both contribute to dehydration. Avoid crunchy foods, which could provoke a cough.

Professional Treatments 

Bacterial tonsillitis can generally be treated with antibiotics, such as penicillin or amoxicillin. However, antiviral treatments aren’t likely to be given for viral tonsillitis.⁷

Steroid medications may also be prescribed to reduce swelling.^{7, 9}

In cases of severe and recurrent tonsillitis, the tonsils may be removed in a procedure called a tonsillectomy. While tonsillectomy can improve quality of life, it sometimes has little effect and isn’t without complications.^{10, 11}

How to Prevent Swollen Tonsils and Tonsillitis 

There’s no way to ensure you’ll never get tonsillitis. But there are some steps you can take to reduce your vulnerability to tonsillitis-causing viruses and bacteria.

The following practices can help lower your chances of getting tonsillitis:

• Washing your hands thoroughly and regularly
• Avoiding close contact or sharing food with people who are currently sick
• Disinfecting frequently used surfaces such as phone screens and doorknobs
• Maintaining a balanced diet and getting adequate sleep to support your immune system¹²
• Maintaining good oral hygiene⁶

Tonsillitis Complications 

Bacterial tonsillitis caused by streptococcus A (strep throat) can sometimes lead to complications if left untreated, such as:^{1, 7}

• Rheumatic fever (inflammation of multiple organs, including the heart)
• Kidney disease (glomerulonephritis)
• Quinsy (also known as peritonsillar abscess, an infection behind the tonsils)

For this reason, antibiotics are often prescribed for bacterial tonsillitis.^{1, 7, 9}

Summary

Swollen tonsils are a common symptom of tonsillitis, which can be caused by viruses or bacteria.

You can prevent tonsillitis by maintaining good oral hygiene, frequently washing your hands, and disinfecting high-traffic areas.

Bacterial tonsillitis can sometimes lead to further complications, but it can be effectively treated with antibiotics. Home remedies and over-the-counter drugs can relieve pain and discomfort from tonsillitis.