Eyes, ears, nose & throatInfectionICD-10 J03
Tonsillitis and sore throat
Also called: Pharyngitis, Strep throat
Infection of the tonsils causing sore throat and fever. Usually viral; group A strep causes a minority of cases.
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Causes
- Viruses (most)
- Group A streptococcus
Risk factors
- Children and teenagers
- Close contact
Symptoms
- Sore throat and painful swallowing
- Fever
- Swollen tonsils with white patches
- Tender neck glands
Diagnosis — tests and examinations
- Clinical scoring (Centor/FeverPAIN)
- Rapid strep test
Treatment
Medicines and medical treatment
- Pain relief
- Penicillin (phenoxymethylpenicillin) for strep throat
Operations and procedures
- Tonsillectomy for frequent recurrent tonsillitis
- Drainage of a peritonsillar abscess (quinsy)
Self-care, home remedies and lifestyle
- Fluids, rest, warm or cold drinks, lozenges
Possible complications
- Quinsy
- Rheumatic fever and glomerulonephritis (strep)
Prevention
- Hand hygiene
Outlook
Resolves within a week.
When to see a doctor
Seek urgent care for difficulty breathing or swallowing saliva, or a muffled voice.
Sources and further reading
These sources cover this condition. They have not been checked against every statement on this page.
Related conditions
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