Sore throat is extremely common in children, teenagers and young adults and is often associated with a high temperature. Tonsils are small glands that sit either side of the throat and are sometimes affected (tonsillitis).
Symptoms of tonsillitis
- Sore throat and pain on swallowing
- Fever can be present
- Swollen, painful glands in your neck
- Tonsils red with pus
These symptoms usually improve within 4-7 days.
Causes
Most cases of sore throat in young children (under 5 years of age) are caused by viral infections; your child may also have a runny nose, cough or earache. Tonsillitis can be caused by a number of different bacteria, but it is usually due to a group A streptococcus bacteria (strep throat).