What are the common reasons for inflamed tonsils?

Inflamed tonsils, also known as tonsillitis, are usually caused by infections. These infections can be due to viruses or bacteria. Common causes include:

1. Viral Infections: These are the most frequent causes of inflamed tonsils, such as the common cold or flu.
2. Bacterial Infections: Streptococcus bacteria, which cause strep throat, are a well-known cause of bacterial tonsillitis. However, non-streptococcal bacteria can also cause tonsillitis and may be treated with antibiotics like metronidazole.

Sometimes, only one tonsil may become enlarged, which could indicate a different underlying issue. In rare cases, severe tonsillitis can lead to complications, such as sudden death in children, though this is uncommon. Understanding these causes can help in managing and treating inflamed tonsils effectively.