Condition

Tonsillitis

Tonsillitis is an infection of the tonsils located on the sides of the throat. It can be either bacterial or viral. Patients experience a sore throat on both sides, feel unwell, and symptoms typically persist for up to one week. When episodes become frequent — causing significant time off school or work — surgical removal may be recommended. The standard criteria for tonsillectomy are: 7 episodes in one year; 5 episodes per year for 2 consecutive years; 3 episodes per year for 3 consecutive years; or 2 episodes of quinsy.