Treatment
Tonsillitis is typically treated with self-care or antibiotics. Although surgery is no longer the standard treatment for tonsillitis, it may be recommended in some cases.
Self-care
If tonsillitis is caused by a viral infection, you'll need to let the virus run its course. Recovery may take a week or two. In the meantime, get plenty of rest. Drink warm, soothing liquids — such as soup, broth and tea — and gargle with warm salt water. Acetaminophen (Tylenol, others) or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin, others) can help reduce fever and decrease pain. Because of the risk of Reye's syndrome — a potentially life-threatening illness — don't give aspirin to children younger than age 12.
Antibiotics
If tonsillitis is caused by a bacterial infection, your doctor will prescribe antibiotics. Oral antibiotics typically need to be taken for at least 10 days. Although you'll probably feel better in a day or two, it's important to finish the full course of antibiotics. Stopping medication early may cause the infection to come back — which can lead to potentially serious complications.
If your child has a positive strep test, he or she needs to complete at least 24 hours of antibiotic treatment before returning to school or child care. If your child has difficulty swallowing, antibiotics may be given by injection.
Surgery
Surgical removal of the tonsils (tonsillectomy) is rarely needed for adults. During childhood, surgery may be recommended if:
* Your child has seven or more episodes of tonsillitis in one year
* Your child has five or more episodes of tonsillitis a year for two years
* Swollen tonsils interfere with your child's breathing or swallowing
* An abscess develops in the tonsils
Tonsillectomy is usually done on an outpatient basis. That means your child will be able to go home the day of the surgery. A complete recovery may take up to two weeks, however.
After surgery, your child's throat will be sore. He or she may have ear pain as well. Encourage your child to suck on ice cubes or frozen fruit pops, eat ice cream or sherbet, and drink cold liquids. You may want to use a cool-mist humidifier in your child's bedroom. While your child is recovering, keep in mind that he or she will be more susceptible to infection than usual. Avoid crowds and exposure to anyone who may be ill. If your child begins to bleed from the mouth, report it to the doctor immediately.
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