Chronic tonsillitis is a long term swelling and infection of the tonsils that does not get better. Tonsils are the round pieces of tissue at the back of the throat. They are part of the body’s immune system and help fight off illness.

Tonsillitis is common in children and many children have acute tonsillitis that happens suddenly and then gets better on its own or with treatment. Chronic tonsillitis occurs when the symptoms are ongoing. It is more common in older children.

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What are the signs and symptoms of chronic tonsillitis?

Common symptoms of chronic tonsillitis may include:

  • Sore throat
  • Tender lymph nodes in the neck
  • Bad breath
  • Breathing through the mouth
  • Hard bits of debris on the tonsils, called tonsil stones

Are swollen tonsils always a sign of tonsillitis?

Not necessarily. A child's tonsils can become swollen during a cold or other infection. Some children also have naturally large tonsils without being sick. Chronic tonsillitis is different because symptoms last for an extended period. If your child has frequent sore throats, ongoing discomfort or trouble swallowing, a pediatric ENT specialist can help determine the cause.

What causes chronic tonsillitis?

Tonsillitis is most often caused by viruses, such as the virus that causes the flu. It can also be caused by bacteria, such as the bacterial infection that causes strep throat. Chronic tonsillitis develops when the symptoms of tonsillitis last for longer than a few weeks.

Can chronic tonsillitis be treated without surgery? 

Your child’s doctor may recommend surgery to remove the tonsils if your child has tonsillitis many times in one year or over several years. But not every child with tonsillitis needs surgery.  Your child's doctor may recommend supportive care, monitoring or further evaluation before considering surgery. Treatment depends on what's causing the symptoms, how often infections occur and how much they affect your child's daily life. Antibiotics may be recommended for certain bacterial infections, including confirmed strep throat. 

Viral infections do not respond to antibiotics. Instead, your doctor may recommend drinking extra fluids and over-the-counter pain medicines.

Doctors at Connecticut Children’s can determine the right plan if your child requires treatment for chronic tonsillitis.