Chronic tonsillitis is an inflammation of the palatine tonsils that recurs from time to time. It is a recurring inflammation of the palatine tonsils with a sore throat.
What chronic tonsillitis is
The tonsils are lymph nodes deep in the mouth and in the upper part of the throat. They filter bacteria and other pathogens to keep infection from entering the body. Tonsillitis can be acute (tonsillitis) or chronic. The viral or bacterial nature of the inflammation is determined by examination and test results.
Why tonsillitis flares up
The cause is a virus, for example during a cold, or a bacterium, in particular streptococcus. The infection may also affect other parts of the throat — then it is called pharyngitis. Tonsillitis itself is not contagious, but most infections that cause it are transmitted from person to person. Viral tonsillitis is the most common: it resolves on its own, while bacterial tonsillitis is confirmed by a test, the results of which the doctor usually waits for.
How an exacerbation of chronic tonsillitis manifests
The tonsils become red and swollen, the throat hurts, and swallowing is difficult. The temperature rises, and cough, headache, nausea, ear pain, and fatigue appear. In a more severe course, purulent spots or white patches are visible on the tonsils, bad breath appears, and enlarged and tender lymph nodes are palpable in the neck. With tonsillitis, symptoms usually resolve within 3–4 days but may last longer.
- Sore throat lasting longer than 48 hours, sometimes severe.
- Difficulty swallowing, ear pain, headache.
- Fever and chills, feeling of fatigue.
- White patches or purulent spots on the tonsils, bad breath.
- Tender enlarged lymph nodes in the neck and under the jaw.
How a doctor diagnoses tonsillitis and what complications occur
The doctor asks about symptoms and examines the throat: the tonsils are red, with white spots, and the lymph nodes are enlarged and tender. If necessary, a throat swab is taken to identify bacteria, and a blood test for infectious mononucleosis is done if symptoms are severe or do not resolve. Complications are rare but possible: an abscess between the tonsil and the pharyngeal wall (peritonsillar abscess), and with streptococcal infection — kidney damage, rheumatic fever, and other heart problems. Tonsil removal is performed very rarely, only in severe tonsillitis that keeps coming back.
When to see a doctor
You should see a doctor if symptoms do not resolve within a week or if throat infections recur. A separate reason is purulent spots on the tonsils and pain that makes it difficult to eat and drink. In a child, excessive salivation, a temperature of 38.3 °C and above, a rash, and pronounced problems with swallowing and breathing are concerning.
An exacerbation of tonsillitis by itself is not a reason to call an ambulance. Call 103 or 112 if severe sore throat rapidly worsens, swelling appears inside the mouth and throat, it is difficult to speak, swallow, or breathe, or it is difficult to open the mouth — these are signs of a peritonsillar abscess.
This material is for reference purposes: it explains the mechanism and signs but does not replace an examination by a doctor, who will make a diagnosis and determine further steps.
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This content is for reference and does not replace a doctor's consultation. Medical disclaimer