Tonsillitis
Definition
Tonsillitis is inflammation (swelling) of the tonsils.
See also: Sore throat
Causes
The tonsils are lymph nodes in the back of the mouth and top of the throat. They normally help to filter out bacteria and other microorganisms to prevent infection in the body.
They may become so overwhelmed by bacterial or viral infection that they swell and become inflamed, causing tonsillitis. The infection may also be present in the throat and surrounding areas, causing pharyngitis.
Tonsillitis is extremely common, particularly in children.
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