It may be caused by a viral infection or infection with streptococcal bacteria.
Tonsillitis occurs most commonly during early childhood.
Tonsillitis is characterized by a sore throat, difficulty in swallowing, headache, swollen glands, and high fever. In very young children, the main symptoms may be abdominal pain, vomiting, and diarrhea. Tonsillitis that is caused by streptococcal infection is treated with antibiotics, usually penicillin or erythromycin, for a full 10 days to eradicate the infection. An analgesic may also be prescribed to relieve the pain. The patient should eat soft foods and drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration.