Tonsillitis: Symptoms, Causes, And Treatments

Treatment Options

If tonsillitis is caused by the common cold or a virus, it may not require treatment. More severe cases involving a bacterial infection will need to be treated with an antibiotic or a tonsillectomy, which is when the tonsils are removed through a surgical procedure. A tonsillectomy is only recommended for people who experience chronic tonsillitis. It may also be necessary if the disease does not respond to medications or treatment. Intravenous fluids may be needed if tonsillitis prevents food or fluid intake. Pain medications may be prescribed to help reduce throat pain.

Natural Remedies

Tonsillitis caused by viral infections or the common cold may be treated at home by getting plenty of rest, naturally treating throat pain, eating foods that boost the immune system, and using a vaporizer for easier breathing. If chewing or swallowing becomes painful, try a liquid diet of fruit smoothies, homemade vegetable juice, and organic chicken broth for a few days. Drinking licorice root tea with raw honey may be used to treat inflamed tonsils. Gargling with salt water is also effective at reducing symptoms.