What Is Going On With My Tonsils Does This Look Infected?

Posted on Fri, 7 Feb 2025

Question: Hi what is going on with my tonsils? Does this look infected it’s the one in the left in the picture that hurts.

Answered by Dr. Sumit Bhatti (29 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Acute Tonsillitis and Pharyngitis.

Detailed Answer:
Hi.

Thank you for your query.

1. The attached image shows congestion consistent with a sore throat / acute tonsillitis and pharyngitis.

2. Depending on the severity of symptoms, antibiotics, anti inflammatory, anti allergic, antipyretic medication and medicated gargles will settle the symptoms.

3. A bland diet, adequate rest and hydration is advised. Cessation of exposure to tobacco and alcohol, if applicable.

4. This is fairly common in this season. A few recent viral infections are causing prolonged symptoms.

Hope this answers you question. If you have any further questions, I will be available to answer them.

Regards.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vaishalee Punj

Follow up: Dr. Sumit Bhatti (9 hours later)

Thank you so much doctor. What type of gargle would help and how do you know when you need antibiotics?

Answered by Dr. Sumit Bhatti (2 days later)

Brief Answer:
Details as discussed below:

Detailed Answer:
Hi.

Thank you for following up.

1. Antibiotics are only required if there is fever or severe pain.

2. Medicated gargles such as povidone iodine (Betadine Oral Rinse) or 0.15% benzydamine will help. Lukewarm saline water gargles will also help soothe the throat.

3. Lozenges may also be useful.

Hope this answers your question. If you have any further questions, I will be available to answer them.

Regards.

Note: Consult an experienced Otolaryngologist / ENT Specialist online for further follow up on ear, nose, and throat issues - Book a Call now.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Dr.Raju.A.T