Swollen, painful tonsils making it hard to swallow? Tonsillitis can come from a virus or from bacteria like strep, and the cause decides the treatment. Get same-day, ENT-focused care for tonsillitis, in person or by video.
Tonsillitis is inflammation of the tonsils, the two soft pads of tissue at the back of the throat. It’s usually caused by a viral infection, but bacteria like strep are a common cause too. The tonsils swell, turn red, and may show white or yellow patches, which makes swallowing painful. Most cases clear within a week or so, but tonsillitis that keeps coming back or makes it hard to breathe or swallow may need a closer look and, in some cases, a conversation about removing the tonsils.
Common symptoms include:
Same-day appointments available. Most insurance accepted.
Telling viral tonsillitis from a bacterial cause like strep isn’t reliable by eye, and the difference decides whether antibiotics help. An ENT-focused exam confirms the cause and checks for complications like an abscess.
During your visit, your provider may examine your throat and neck, run a rapid strep test, and recommend a plan based on what they find.
Virtual ENT care can help with symptom review, comfort-care guidance, and deciding whether you need testing.
An in-person visit is needed for a rapid strep test, a throat exam, severe or one-sided pain, or evaluation of enlarged tonsils.
If you need help deciding whether virtual care is right for you, our team is here to assist.
If you need help deciding whether virtual care is right for you, our team is here to assist.
