Tonsillitis (Inflammation of the Tonsils)

Tonsillitis is the inflammation of the tonsils, typically caused by viral or bacterial infections. It leads to sore throat, difficulty swallowing, fever, and swollen lymph nodes. Recurrent or severe tonsillitis may result in complications such as abscess formation, sleep disturbances, or breathing obstruction. Diagnosis is made through throat examination, rapid strep testing, or culture. Management includes symptomatic relief, antibiotics for bacterial causes, and, in recurrent or chronic cases, surgical removal of tonsils (tonsillectomy).