Tonsillitis is a common throat condition that affects both adults and children. While many cases resolve with rest, some episodes may require assessment by an ENT doctor particularly when symptoms persist, recur, or affect breathing and daily activities.
This guide answers the questions most frequently searched by patients in Singapore.
What Are the Most Common Symptoms of Tonsillitis?
Key Pointers
- Sore throat and discomfort when swallowing
- Fever and fatigue
- Swollen tonsils, sometimes with white patches
- Neck lymph node swelling
- Bad breath
- In children: irritability, poor appetite, noisy breathing
How Do Tonsillitis Symptoms Differ in Adults and Children?
Adults
- Persistent throat pain
- Painful swallowing
- Fatigue
- Recurrent episodes more common
Children
- Refusal to eat or drink
- Fever
- Drooling (due to pain when swallowing)
- Snoring or noisy breathing
- Difficulty sleeping
When Is Tonsillitis Considered Severe?
You may need prompt evaluation if you notice:
- High fever
- Inability to swallow liquids
- Breathing difficulty due to swollen tonsils
- Worsening pain despite medication
- Symptoms lasting more than 1 week
These may indicate a more serious infection or complication.
When Should I See an ENT Doctor for Tonsillitis?
Common situations where ENT assessment is recommended:
1. Recurrent Tonsillitis
- More than 3–4 episodes per year
- Symptoms that return soon after completing treatment
2. Persistent Tonsillitis
- Symptoms lasting longer than 1–2 weeks
- Ongoing throat discomfort between infections
3. Difficulty Breathing or Sleeping
- Snoring
- Noisy breathing
- Sleep disturbances in children
4. Frequent School Absences or Impact on Daily Activities
This may suggest chronic tonsillar issues.
When Does Tonsillitis Become Chronic?
Tonsillitis is considered chronic when:
- Symptoms persist for more than 3 months, or
- There are repeated infections with slow or incomplete recovery
Chronic tonsillitis can affect sleep quality, appetite, and overall well-being.
How Is Tonsillitis Treated in Singapore?
For viral tonsillitis
- Rest and hydration
- Saltwater gargles
- Pain relief as needed
For bacterial tonsillitis
- Antibiotics if indicated
- Monitoring for complications
For recurrent or chronic tonsillitis
An ENT doctor may recommend:
- Further evaluation, including endoscopy
- Medical management
- Tonsillectomy if symptoms persist and meet clinical criteria
Does Tonsillectomy Help?
Tonsillectomy may be considered when:
- There are multiple episodes yearly
- Symptoms affect breathing, sleep, or growth (in children)
- Complications such as abscesses occur
- Chronic tonsillitis does not respond to medical treatment
Suitability depends on individual assessment.
FAQs About Tonsillitis
1. Is tonsillitis contagious?
Yes. It may spread through droplets or close contact.
2. Can adults get recurrent tonsillitis?
Yes. Adults can experience repeated infections or persistent symptoms.
3. Should I see a GP or an ENT doctor first?
GPs can treat mild tonsillitis. ENT evaluation is recommended for persistent, severe, or recurrent cases.
4. Does tonsillitis require antibiotics?
Only when a bacterial infection is suspected or confirmed.
5. How long does tonsillitis usually last?
Many cases improve within 5–7 days. Chronic tonsillitis may last longer or recur.
Struggling With Recurrent or Persistent Tonsillitis? Get It Checked Early.
If tonsillitis is affecting breathing, sleep, swallowing, or keeps returning, an ENT evaluation can help identify the cause and guide appropriate treatment for adults and children.
