Pharyngitis and Tonsillitis in Children

Pharyngitis refers to redness, pain, and swelling of the throat (pharynx) and is commonly known as a sore throat. Tonsillitis is inflammation of the tonsils – the tissue located on either side of the back of the throat. 

Some children may have either pharyngitis, tonsillitis, or both (pharyngotonsillitis) at the same time.

While viral infections are the most common cause of Pharyngitis is most often caused by viral infections, while tonsillitis may be caused by either viral or bacterial infections. Other causes of these conditions include:

• Fungal infections, such as in those that cause a yeast infection
• Allergies, including hay fever (allergic rhinitis) and nasal allergies
• Sinus infections
• Cancers
• Injuries
• Irritants like cigarette smoke or air pollution
• Gastroesophageal reflux (stomach acids in the throat)

Prompt evaluation and treatment of pharyngitis or tonsillitis is important as complications can develop can occur if these conditions are left untreated. These may include:

• Serious infections in the throat area
• Dehydration (loss of fluids) from difficulty swallowing
• Breathing problems caused by enlarged tonsils
• Complications from untreated strep throat (a bacterial infection), such as heart or kidney problems, ear infections, or infections in the lungs or nervous system
   

When to Seek Care

Call your child's health care provider if your child has:
•    A sore throat lasting more than a few days
•    A sore throat accompanied by a fever or other symptoms
 

Call 9-1-1 or your local emergency number if your child has:
•    Difficulty breathing
•    Severe sore throat pain with trouble swallowing, drooling, or with a stiff neck or neck swelling

Risk Factors

Frequent exposure to germs is the major risk factor for pharyngitis and tonsillitis – especially in group settings like schools or daycare. These illnesses are most common during the winter, when viral and bacterial infections are more widespread.

Symptoms 

Symptoms can appear differently in each child and may include:

• Sore throat
• Trouble swallowing or painful swallowing
• Enlarged, painful neck glands
• Hoarseness or change in voice
• Fever or chills
• Headache
• Ear pain
• Nausea and vomiting
• Belly pain
• Feeling achy and tired
• Red or swollen throat
• Red or enlarged tonsils
• Throat or tonsils may have a whitish discharge
• Trouble breathing or snoring

Diagnosing Pharyngitis and Tonsillitis 

Your child's health care provider will ask about their symptoms, check their temperature, and do a physical exam, paying close attention to the ears, nose, throat, and tonsils.

• Depending on your child’s symptoms, the provider may do a throat culture or blood tests.
• Your child may have a rapid test to see if your child has strep throat.
• Your child may also have a throat culture to check for strep; results may take 48 to 72 hours
• Blood tests to check for infections like mono (infectious mononucleosis).

Treatment Options

Treatment depends on the cause of your child’s infection, the severity of symptoms, your child’s age, and their general health. 
If your child has a bacterial infection, antibiotics will be prescribed (antibiotics are only effective against bacterial infections, not viral or fungal infections). If bacteria are not the cause of the infection, treatment will focus on making your child comfortable. This may include:

• Taking acetaminophen or ibuprofen (as a liquid or pills) for pain; other medicines or treatments may be recommended for severe pain
• Increasing fluid intake; some teas have ingredients that soothe the throat
• Eating smooth, cool foods such as gelatin, ice cream, and ice pops
• Gargling with salt water (for older kids)
• Sucking on throat drops, lozenges, or hard candies (for older kids)
   

Tonsillitis may also require a hospital stay if enlarged tonsils are blocking the airways and  making breathing difficult. For children with frequent tonsillitis, tonsil removal (tonsillectomy) may be recommended. Your child's provider will refer you to an ear, nose, and throat specialist (ENT) if surgery is being considered.

Why Choose Cooper for Pharyngitis and Tonsillitis Care

At Cooper University Health Care, our team of ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialists offers expert diagnosis and treatment for a full range of pediatric throat conditions, including pharyngitis and tonsillitis. Families trust Cooper for:

• Expertise in pediatric ENT care: Our specialists have advanced training and years of experience treating routine and complex throat infections in children.
• Surgical excellence: When needed, our ENT team performs tonsillectomies with a strong track record of safety and successful outcomes.
• Compassionate, family-centered care: We understand the stress of illness in children and partner with parents to provide personalized, supportive care every step of the way.