The tonsils are small, round pieces of tissue that are located in the back of the mouth on the side of the throat. Tonsils are thought to help fight infections by producing antibodies. The tonsils can usually be seen in the throat of your child by using a light.
Tonsillitis occurs when the tonsils become inflamed from infection.
Adenoids are similar to the tonsils. Adenoids also help to fight infections. Adenoids may cause problems if they become enlarged or infected. Adenoiditis is when the adenoids become inflamed from infection. The symptoms of tonsillitis vary greatly depending on the cause of the infection, and can occur either suddenly or gradually.