See your GP if you think that your child has tonsillitis. Your GP will examine their throat and ask them (or you) questions about the symptoms.
There are four main signs that determine whether tonsillitis is due to a bacterial infection rather than a viral infection.
These are:
- a high temperature
- white pus-filled spots on your child’s tonsils
- no cough
- swollen and tender lymph nodes (glands)
If your child has two of the above, your GP may recommend further testing. If your child has three or more of the above then it is highly likely that your child has bacterial tonsillitis and antibiotics may sometimes be prescribed.
Laboratory testing
If a more detailed diagnosis is required, a swab sample can be sent to a laboratory for analysis. The results can take a few days to return.
Laboratory tests are mainly used for patients in high-risk groups (such as those with weakened immune systems) or if previous treatment has failed.
Blood test
If you develop tonsillitis as an adult and you also have additional symptoms such as swollen nodes and a very painful throat your GP may recommend you have a blood test to see whether you have glandular fever. Read more about the diagnosis of glandular fever.
