The treatment for tonsillitis depends on the cause and the severity of the condition. The doctor will take a throat swab to check for streptococcal bacteria (strep throat), or a complete blood cell count to find the cause of the infection. Depending on the results of the tests, the doctor will recommend the best treatment for the condition:
- If caused by a virus, suitable home care is enough to treat your condition.
- If caused by a bacteria, antibiotics will be prescribed. These may be given as an injection if a child has difficulty swallowing due to tonsillitis.
- Tonsillectomy, the surgical removal of the tonsils, may be advised for children who suffer from recurrent tonsillitis and do not respond to other treatment options.