Tonsillitis

Tonsillitis is the name given to an infection of the tonsils that are located at either side of the back of your throat. This condition most commonly occurs in children as the result of a viral infection such as a cold or bacterial invasion such as strep throat. Typical symptoms of tonsillitis include significant soreness in the throat along with pain while swallowing; fever, chills and a stiff neck; and white pustules on the tonsils, which themselves will be red and inflamed. Rarely, a severe form of tonsillitis can result in obstructed breathing – in which case, immediate medical attention should be sought. Treatments for this condition depend on its severity and cause but typically involve antibiotic medications or tonsillectomy surgery.