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

Adenoidectomy Global Snoring surgery (in the absence of obstructive sleep apnoea) Global Tonsillectomy for recurrent tonsillitis Global

Specialties

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

Places covered by

  • East Riding
  • Hull

Hospital Trusts

  • Hull University Teaching Hospitals