Recurrent Tonsillitis

Definition/Description

Watchful waiting is more appropriate than tonsillectomy for children with mild sore throats.
Where sore throats are due to bacterial tonsillitis. This should be evidenced by a history of pyrexia, tender anterior cervical lymph nodes and/or tonsillar exudates

Red Flag Symptoms

Exclude Red Flag Symptoms

Unilateral tonsillar enlargement - Refer 2WW
Obstructive sleep apnoea

Guidelines on Management

Antibiotic in line with current guidance for 10 days. 
Throat swabs add no value.

Referral Criteria/Information

Tonsillectomy is recommended for recurrent severe sore throat in adults in line with the local commissioning policy which can be found here

Referrals

Please refer via NHS e-Referral (eRS)

Associated Policies

There are no associated policies.

Specialties

Ear, Nose and Throat Hull Ear, Nose and Throat East Riding

Places covered by

  • east-riding
  • hull

Hospital Trusts

  • hull-university-teaching-hospitals
Author:
Date created: 08/07/2025, 14:57
Last modified: 15/07/2025, 10:53
Date of review: 2025-07-07