What causes swollen tonsils, and how can they be treated?

Reviewed by Yoshinori Abe, MD

Internal Medicine

Swollen tonsils are enlarged, inflamed tissues at the back of the throat, often caused by viral or bacterial infections (like strep throat), allergies, or chronic conditions such as tonsillitis. Symptoms may include sore throat, difficulty swallowing, fever, and visible redness or white patches. Treatment depends on the underlying cause and can range from rest and hydration to antibiotics, or in recurring cases, a tonsillectomy.

Because swollen tonsils can signal anything from a minor virus to a condition requiring prompt medical care, identifying the cause early matters. Take a free, instant, online symptom check to better understand your symptoms and confidently plan your next steps.

Reviewed for medical accuracy: 07/20/2026

Important Next Steps

Learn likely causes of swollen tonsils See if swollen tonsils need care Find out what swollen tonsils mean Discover OTC options for swollen tonsils Find tonsil doctors near you Learn home remedies for swollen tonsils Understand if swollen tonsils need urgent care

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Explanation

Swollen tonsils, also known as tonsillitis, can occur due to infections like bacteria or viruses, or due to chronic conditions affecting the throat. Unilateral tonsillar enlargement can sometimes be a sign of more serious conditions and should be evaluated by a healthcare provider. Chronic tonsillitis can be linked to other issues like periodontal diseases, which affect the gums and teeth.

Treatment Options:

Antibiotics: For bacterial infections, antibiotics like clindamycin may be used to treat recurrent acute tonsillitis.
Medical Evaluation: Persistent or unusual enlargement should be assessed by a healthcare professional to rule out other causes.
Chronic Management: Addressing underlying chronic conditions may involve different strategies, including dental care if periodontal disease is present.

If you are experiencing symptoms related to swollen tonsils, you can start by using a free symptom checker to help identify possible causes and determine the best next steps for your care.

(References)

Cortez EA, Mattox DE, Holt GR, & Gates GA. (1979). Unilateral tonsillar enlargement. Otolaryngology and head and neck surgery, 530694.
Kryukov AI, Krechina EK, Tovmasyan AS, Kishinevskiy AE, Danilyuk LI, & Filina EV. (2023). [Chronic tonsillitis and periodontal diseases]. Vestnik otorinolaringologii, 36867141.
Jensen JH, & Larsen SB. (1991). Treatment of recurrent acute tonsillitis with clindamycin. An .... Clinical otolaryngology and allied sciences, 1742901.

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