What are the treatments for the infection?

Acute tonsillitis is usually treated with:

For acute tonsillitis caused by strep bacteria, antibiotics will usually cure the infection. Unfortunately, some strep bacteria are becoming resistant to penicillin. This means higher doses of amoxicillin or a different antibiotic need to be used.

Since antibiotics are not effective against viruses, the only treatment for tonsillitis caused by viral infection is medication to reduce fever and pain. Oral steroids may be given for a short period of time if symptoms are severe.

Oral steroids can lessen the symptoms of tonsiliitis caused by mononucleosis. Antibiotics can be helpful in preventing infection if material has collected on the surface of the tonsils.

In subacute tonsillitis caused by actinomyces, penicillin and clindamycin are effective. If these antibiotics do not work, the person can remove the infected material from the tonsil pits with a finger or special irrigating tool. Otherwise, the tonsils should be removed.

In cases of chronic tonsillitis, antibiotics combined with oral steroids may resolve the infection. If not, the tonsils should be removed.

Tonsillectomy may be recommended by the healthcare provider if the person has had:

What are the side effects of the treatments?

Side effects depend on the medications used, but may include allergic reactions and upset stomach. Surgery to remove the tonsils can cause bleeding, infection, or allergic reactions to anesthesia.

What happens after treatment for the infection?

Most viral episodes of tonsillitis will resolve without further problems. Antibiotics should clear up infections caused by strep or other bacteria. After recovery from tonsillectomy, the person should be free of symptoms.

How is the infection monitored?

Any new or worsening symptoms should be reported to the healthcare provider.