Symptoms

Tonsillitis most commonly affects children between preschool ages and the midteenage years. Common signs and symptoms of tonsillitis include:

• Red, swollen tonsils
• White or yellow coating or patches on the tonsils
• Sore throat
• Difficult or painful swallowing
• Fever
• Enlarged, tender glands (lymph nodes) in the neck
• A scratchy, muffled or throaty voice
• Bad breath
• Stomachache
• Neck pain or stiff neck
• Headache

In young children who are unable to describe how they feel, signs of tonsillitis may include:

• Drooling due to difficult or painful swallowing
• Refusal to eat
• Unusual fussiness

When to see a doctor

It's important to get an accurate diagnosis if your child has symptoms that may indicate tonsillitis.

Call your doctor if your child is experiencing:

• A sore throat with fever
• A sore throat that doesn't go away within 24 to 48 hours
• Painful or difficult swallowing
• Extreme weakness, fatigue or fussiness

Get immediate care if your child has any of these signs:

• Difficulty breathing
• Extreme difficulty swallowing
• Excessive drooling