Tonsillitis

Tonsillitis is an infection of the tonsils. It can be passed on by close contact with others. The most common symptom is a sore throat but you may also have a cough, fever, headache, nausea, and tiredness. You may find it difficult to swallow and have swollen neck glands.

In addition, your tonsils may be swollen and red and you may be able to see white spots on them, which is pus. Often your symptoms will get worse over two to three days but they usually go within a week.

Tonsillitis Treatments at IPSA

If your illness is not responding to over-the-counter products, contact IPSA to see a doctor. We can offer immediate appointments at the beginning of your illness before your symptoms worsen.

At IPSA, you will be seen by our doctor with strong background in emergency medicine in a clean, quiet and confidential  environment.

We will carry out a full consultation to assess your symptoms and give you an examination to exclude any serious causes for your symptoms, such as a tonsillar abscess.

Depending on your symptoms and the trigger, we may recommend antibiotics, anti-mucus mediation, prescription analgesia, immunity boosters or steroids.

If necessary, we will offer immediate treatment to relieve distressing symptoms like tonsillar pain and difficulty swallowing.

Following your appointment with our doctors, we will provide you with easy access to us over the phone in case you have any further worries or questions when you go home with your treatment.

At IPSA our doctors can offer immediate appointments at a time to suit you, and we will support you throughout your recovery process. We will also provide medical sick notes if needed.

Treating Tonsillitis at Home

Tonsillitis will often clear up on its own within a week. You can help your recovery by having plenty to drink.

When it is painful to swallow, keeping your fluid intake up can be a challenge, but you may become mildly dehydrated if you don’t drink much. Mild dehydration can make your headaches and tiredness much worse. Drinking is particularly important if you also have a fever.

Gargles, lozenges and sprays can also be used to help relieve your symptoms,  although they will not clear up the infection. Visit the IPSA pharmacy for recommended over-the-counter products.

You can also ease pain, headache and fever with Paracetamol or ibuprofen. Remember that some people with certain conditions may not be able to take ibuprofen, so make sure you read the label on the packet or ask our doctors at IPSA for advice.

Contact IPSA for an appointment with our resident GP or book a same-day appointment online.