Tonsil Infection Symptoms & Causes | MicroCare ENT Hospital Hyderabad

Tonsillitis symptoms and causes explained by ENT specialist at MicroCare ENT Hospital Hyderabad Kukatpally Telangana

A sore throat can feel minor at first. However, when it comes with fever, swollen tonsils, and pain while swallowing, it may be tonsillitis. Tonsils are small tissue masses located on both sides at the back of your throat. They help fight infections, but sometimes they become inflamed or infected.

At MicroCare ENT Hospital, Hyderabad (Kukatpally & Jubilee Hills), we frequently treat patients with recurrent throat infections and tonsil problems. In this blog, we explain tonsillitis symptoms and causes, how to identify warning signs, and when you should see an ENT specialist in Hyderabad.

Published By microcareenthospitals.com / Updated: Dec 05, 2025

What Is Tonsillitis?

Tonsillitis (also called tonsillopharyngitis) is inflammation or infection of the tonsils. It can affect both children and adults. In many cases, tonsillitis is caused by a virus. However, bacterial tonsillitis can also occur and may need specific treatment.

Because tonsillitis can return repeatedly, understanding the causes and early symptoms helps you seek the right care at the right time.

Tonsil Infection Symptoms: 10 Common Signs You Should Not Ignore

If you have these symptoms for more than 2–3 days, or if they’re severe, consult an ENT specialist in Hyderabad:

1) Sore Throat (Throat Pain)

Pain can be mild or severe, and it often worsens while swallowing.

2) Swollen, Red Tonsils

Tonsils may appear enlarged and irritated.

3) Fever (Often Above 100.4°F / 38°C)

Fever is common, especially in moderate or severe infections.

4) Pain or Difficulty Swallowing

Swallowing food, water, or even saliva may hurt.

5) White Patches or Pus on Tonsils

This is commonly seen in bacterial tonsillitis, but it can also occur with viral infections.

6) Swollen Lymph Nodes in the Neck

Glands under the jaw or below the ears may become tender.

7) Bad Breath (Halitosis)

Infection and debris in tonsil crevices can cause foul breath.

8) Hoarse Voice or Muffled Voice

Swelling near the throat can affect your voice quality.

9) Headache, Body Pains, or Fatigue

Many patients feel weak and tired because the body is fighting infection.

10) Stomach Pain or Vomiting (More Common in Children)

Kids can present with tummy pain, nausea, or vomiting along with throat infection.

Causes of Tonsillitis: Why Tonsils Get Infected

Understanding tonsillitis symptoms and causes helps you prevent repeated attacks.

1) Viral Infections (Most Common Cause)

Viruses that cause common colds and flu can inflame the tonsils. Viral tonsillitis often improves with supportive care.

2) Bacterial Infections (Including Strep Throat)

Bacterial tonsillitis can cause severe throat pain, high fever, and pus on tonsils. It may require medical evaluation and targeted treatment.

3) Low Immunity or Frequent Exposure (School/Workplace)

Children and adults who spend time in crowded areas have higher exposure to infections.

4) Allergies and Post-Nasal Drip

Allergies can irritate the throat and increase throat infections, especially when nasal blockage and mouth breathing are present.

5) Chronic Mouth Breathing or Snoring

Breathing through the mouth dries the throat and affects tonsil health, making infections more likely.

6) Poor Oral Hygiene

Bacteria buildup can worsen throat inflammation and contribute to infection.

7) Tonsil Stones (Tonsilloliths)

Food debris and bacteria can accumulate in tonsil crypts and cause irritation, bad breath, and recurrent swelling.

Types of Tonsillitis (Quick Overview)

Acute Tonsillitis: Short-term infection that usually lasts 3–14 days

Chronic Tonsillitis: Persistent tonsil inflammation and throat discomfort

Recurrent Tonsillitis: Multiple episodes in a year (often needs evaluation for long-term solutions)

If you have frequent recurring throat infections, consult MicroCare ENT Hospital Hyderabad for proper evaluation.

When to See an ENT Specialist in Hyderabad (Red Flags)

 if you have : Sore throat lasting more than 7 days

Fever with swollen tonsils repeatedly

Trouble swallowing or breathing

Frequent tonsillitis episodes in a year

Persistent bad breath with tonsil swelling

Enlarged neck glands that don’t reduce

Snoring or mouth breathing due to throat blockage

Early ENT care can prevent complications and reduce recurrence.

How MicroCare ENT Hospital Hyderabad Diagnoses Tonsillitis

At MicroCare ENT Hospital, diagnosis may include:

  • Throat and tonsil examination

  • Assessment of fever history and symptom pattern

  • If needed: throat swab / lab tests (based on clinical condition)

  • Evaluation for allergies, sinusitis, or airway obstruction if infections are recurrent

This helps us plan the best tonsillitis treatment in Hyderabad for each patient.

Prevention Tips: How to Reduce Tonsillitis Attacks

Wash hands frequently

Avoid sharing bottles/spoons

Treat nasal allergies early

Maintain oral hygiene

Stay hydrated

Avoid smoke and dust exposure

Get ENT evaluation if infections repeat often

Conclusion: Know the Symptoms Early, Treat the Cause Right

  • Tonsillitis is common, but repeated or severe infections should not be ignored. By understanding tonsillitis symptoms and causes, you can seek timely care and avoid complications. If you’re looking for the Best ENT Hospital in Telangana or a trusted ENT specialist in Hyderabad, MicroCare ENT Hospital is here to help.

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