The tonsils are two small, oval-shaped lymph nodes located at the back of the throat, one on each side.

The tonsils help to trap and filter bacteria and viruses that enter the throat, preventing them from causing infection.

Tonsillitis is a condition in which the tonsils become inflamed, infected, and/or enlarged.

Symptoms of tonsillitis can include sore throat, difficulty swallowing, swollen lymph nodes in the neck, fever, headache, and fatigue.

Tonsillitis can be caused by bacteria, viruses, or both.

Tonsillitis is diagnosed based on a physical examination, throat culture, and/or blood test.

Treatment for tonsillitis may include antibiotics, pain relievers, and/or surgery.

Tonsils may be removed if they are chronically infected, causing difficulty breathing or swallowing, or causing sleep apnea.

Risks of tonsillectomy include bleeding, infection, difficulty swallowing, and pain.

It typically takes 2-3 weeks to recover from a tonsillectomy.

Ways to prevent tonsillitis include washing your hands frequently, avoiding contact with people who are sick, and getting vaccinated against strep throat.

Tonsillitis can be a serious condition, but it is usually not life-threatening. However, in some cases, tonsillitis can lead to serious complications, such as a peritonsillar abscess or rheumatic fever.

A peritonsillar abscess is a collection of pus that forms around the tonsils.

Rheumatic fever is a serious complication of tonsillitis that can cause inflammation of the heart, joints, and brain.

Tonsillitis can be cured with antibiotics.