6 Symptoms of Tonsillitis

Contrary to popular belief, tonsillitis can occur at any age. While many children used to get their tonsils removed after a bout of illness, today just as many retain their tonsils well into adulthood. Your tonsils don’t need to be removed the first time they get infected, but your doctor may make the decision to remove them if the infection is bad enough. 

South Louisiana Ear, Nose, Throat & Facial Plastics (SLENT) has multiple locations in Mandeville, Slidell, and Hammond, Louisiana. The SLENT team understands how to diagnose and treat issues like tonsillitis as well as sinus infections, ear infections, and allergies. If you’re feeling congested, sore, and fatigued, it’s time for a professional medical opinion.

Tonsillitis basics

Tonsillitis is an infection of the tonsils, which are located at the back of your throat. Tonsillitis is usually caused by bacteria, including Streptococcal bacteria — which are also responsible for strep throat. In many cases, a severe case of strep throat can spread to the tonsils and lead to tonsillitis. 

The 6 symptoms of tonsillitis 

Tonsillitis has six common symptoms. Your case could include any or all of the following:

1. An extremely sore throat 
2. A rough, scratchy voice
3. Difficulty speaking and swallowing
4. A fever 
5. Throat tenderness 
6. Swollen tonsils 

What sets tonsillitis and strep throat apart in many cases is the presence of swollen, red, or spotted tonsils. If you’re suffering from a sore throat, your doctor will likely shine a light into your mouth to check your tonsils for signs of infection. 

Symptoms of tonsillitis can clear up and go away within a week for some people, but any persistent or recurring issues should be reported to your doctor. Chronic or recurrent tonsillitis might indicate that your tonsils need to be removed. 

Resolving tonsillitis 

If you’re experiencing a sore throat, high fever, and/or neck stiffness, it’s time to visit our office. We can provide advice and prescribe antibiotics to resolve your problem. Depending on the severity of your condition, we might also suggest a tonsillectomy to clear up the problem once and for all. 

Tonsillectomies are not always required, but they have specific benefits. If you’ve suffered from multiple bouts of tonsillitis over the years, having your tonsils removed could be a permanent solution to constant infection. This is a minor surgery, and your doctor can go over the details with you in person. 

Suffering from a severe sore throat? Don’t hesitate to reach out for help. You can get in touch with the SLENT team by visiting our contact page.