Overview

Tonsillitis is an infection or inflammation of the tonsils that is caused by bacteria or a virus. The tonsils are in the back of the throat and are part of the immune system. Tonsillitis typically lasts from a few days up to a couple of weeks.

Tonsillitis caused by a virus usually goes away on its own. Tonsillitis caused by the bacteria that causes strep throat is treated with antibiotics. You and your child's doctor may consider surgery to remove the tonsils if your child has complications from tonsillitis or repeat infections. This surgery is called tonsillectomy.

How can you care for your child at home?

• If the doctor prescribed antibiotics for your child, give them as directed. Do not stop using them just because your child feels better. Your child needs to take the full course of antibiotics.
• Ask your doctor if your child can take over-the-counter pain medicines, such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin). Do not use ibuprofen if your child is less than 6 months old unless the doctor gave you instructions to use it. Be safe with medicines. Read and follow all instructions on the label. Do not give aspirin to anyone younger than 18. It has been linked to Reye syndrome, a serious illness.
• Do not give your child two or more pain medicines at the same time unless the doctor told you to. Many pain medicines have acetaminophen, which is Tylenol. Too much acetaminophen (Tylenol) can be harmful.
• Have your child gargle with warm salt water several times a day to help reduce swelling and relieve pain. Mix 1/2 teaspoon (2.5 mL) of salt in 1 cup (250 mL) of warm water. Most children can gargle when they are 6 years old.
• Have your child drink plenty of fluids. Fluids may help soothe the throat. Your child can drink warm or cold liquids (whichever feels better). These include tea, soup, ice, and flavoured ice pops (such as Popsicles).
• Help your child get plenty of rest.
• Place a cool-mist humidifier by your child's bed or close to your child. Follow the directions for cleaning the machine.