Home › ENT Conditions in Gangnam, Seoul

Tonsillitis Treatment in Gangnam, Seoul

Medically reviewed by Dr. Kim Yoo Suk, MD · Board-certified otolaryngologist · Former professor, Yonsei & Ajou University · Consultations in English

What is tonsillitis?

Tonsillitis is inflammation of the palatine tonsils, the two oval pads of lymphoid tissue at the back of the throat. The tonsils are part of the immune system and trap germs entering through the mouth, which is also why they become infected. When the surrounding pharynx is inflamed too, doctors may call it tonsillopharyngitis.

Symptoms

• Sore throat and pain on swallowing, sometimes felt in the ears
• Fever, chills and fatigue
• Red, enlarged tonsils, often with white or yellow patches (exudate)
• Swollen, tender lymph nodes under the jaw
• Bad breath and a thick or muffled voice

Causes

Viruses, such as adenovirus, influenza and Epstein-Barr virus (the cause of infectious mononucleosis), account for many cases. Group A beta-hemolytic streptococcus is the classic bacterial cause and matters because untreated strep can rarely lead to complications. Fatigue, stress and close contact with sick people make infection more likely.

Tonsillitis is common in children and teenagers, but adults are affected too, and adults are more likely to develop complications such as a peritonsillar abscess. Smoking and frequent mouth breathing from a blocked nose can further irritate the tonsils.

How it's diagnosed at our Gangnam clinic

Diagnosis starts with a focused history and a direct look at the tonsils, palate and neck. Dr. Kim assesses the size of the tonsils, the pattern of exudate and any asymmetry that could suggest a developing abscess. If voice changes or deeper throat symptoms are present, laryngoscopy gives a clear view of the larynx. In flu season, a rapid flu test can clarify the picture. Blood tests may be suggested when mononucleosis is suspected.

Treatment options

Medical treatment first

• Pain relief and fever control, warm fluids and soft foods
• Antibiotics when a bacterial infection is likely, taken for the full course
• Mouth rinses and throat sprays for comfort
• Rest and hydration; a cold and flu IV may be discussed for patients who cannot keep up with fluids

When surgery is considered

Tonsillectomy is not a first-line treatment. It is generally considered when tonsillitis recurs about 4–5 or more times a year, when enlarged tonsils contribute to obstructive sleep apnea, after a peritonsillar abscess, or when a tumor is suspected. See recurrent tonsillitis for more on this decision.

When to see an ENT

See a doctor if throat pain is severe, lasts beyond a few days, or comes with high fever. Get urgent care for difficulty breathing, drooling, inability to swallow fluids, worsening one-sided pain, or trouble opening the mouth.

Seeing Dr. Kim in English

At Gangnam Yonsei ENT, Dr. Kim consults in English and explains whether antibiotics are truly needed. He trained and taught at Yonsei and Ajou university hospitals, and although his academic focus was the nose and sinuses, he manages throat infections every day. Expats, students and visitors can learn more about our English-speaking clinic; an English medical certificate is available on request.

Frequently asked questions

Is tonsillitis contagious?

The viruses and bacteria that cause tonsillitis spread through droplets and close contact, so yes, the infection can be passed on. Wash hands often, avoid sharing cups, and stay home while feverish. With antibiotics for strep, contagiousness drops substantially after about a day of treatment.

How long does tonsillitis last?

Viral tonsillitis usually improves within about a week. Bacterial tonsillitis generally gets better within a few days of starting antibiotics. If pain worsens, becomes one-sided, or you cannot swallow, return for review because an abscess may be forming.

Do adults get tonsillitis?

Yes. Although it is common in children, adults also get tonsillitis, and adults are more likely to develop a peritonsillar abscess. Adults with frequent episodes can discuss whether tonsillectomy is appropriate under the usual criteria.

This page is general medical information written and reviewed by an ENT specialist. It is not a diagnosis. Symptoms differ between people — please see a doctor for an examination. In an emergency in Korea, call 119.