What should you eat if you have tonsillitis?

What is tonsillitis?

Tonsillitis is an inflammation of the tonsils. Although it's common in children, adults and teenagers can get it too. It is normally caused by a virus, which spreads by being in physical contact with others, or by sneezing and coughing. Sometimes, tonsillitis is caused by a bacterial infection such as Strep A.

The main symptoms in children and adults are:

• A sore throat.

• Problems swallowing.

• A high temperature of 38C or above.

• A cough.

• Headaches.

• Feeling sick.

• Earache.

• Feeling tired.

Tonsillitis usually gets better on its own after a few days and can be treated with paracetamol, ibuprofen, drinking plenty of fluids and rest. For tonsillitis caused by bacteria, your doctor may prescribe antibiotics.

Patient picks for Sore throat

Ear, nose and throat

What causes tonsillitis?

Tonsillitis is a very common condition, especially in children. Tonsillitis means inflammation (pain, swelling, and redness) of the tonsils - they are found at the back of the mouth and form part of your immune system which fights off infection.

by Dr Doug McKechnie, MRCGP

Ear, nose and throat

Epiglottitis

Epiglottitis is the term used to describe inflammation and swelling of the epiglottis which lies just behind the root of the tongue. It is usually caused by infection with a bacteria. The usual symptoms are a severe sore throat, pain or difficulty swallowing and a high temperature (fever). Breathing difficulties can occur. Prompt treatment is needed to ensure that enough oxygen can reach the lungs and usually includes antibiotics. If epiglottitis is treated quickly, the outlook is generally very good. Untreated, it can be life-threatening. Since immunisation against Hib was introduced, the number of children who develop epiglottitis in the UK has reduced dramatically.

by Dr Pippa Vincent, MRCGP

What to eat when you have tonsillitis?

Soft foods

Foods to eat with tonsillitis should be soft and easy to swallow. This can be helpful when you have a sore throat because they may be less likely to cause irritation.

Suitable soft foods to eat include:

• Mashed potato.

• Cooked pasta.

• Stews.

• Soups.

• Cooked vegetables.

• Smoothies.

• Scrambled eggs.

• Soft fruits like bananas.

• Noodle dishes.

Soups

Soups such as chicken and vegetable or leek and potato, can be a good way to fill up and eat a healthy, veg-packed meal.

Cool or warm foods

Some people find cool or cold foods soothe an irritated throat, whereas others prefer warm meals. Cold foods such as ice lollies or fridge-cold smoothies are a good option.

Foods to avoid with tonsillitis

Hard foods - harder, crunchier foods may be more likely to irritate a sore throat, so it may be better to avoid these.

Spicy foods - eating spicy foods, when you are not used to it, can also irritate your throat and tonsils, which may further inflame the area, causing increased pain and discomfort. Sticking to milder options can be better.

Acidic foods - acidic foods may also inflame a sore throat. For example, oranges, lemons, grapefruits and tomatoes, including juices. However, it’s important to drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated when you have tonsillitis.

How to soothe a sore throat

There are several things you can do to soothe a sore throat when you have tonsillitis:

• Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.

• Ice lollies are a great way of soothing your throat and providing hydration.

• Eat soft foods.

• Adults can try gargling with warm, salty water, but children should not try this.

• Rest and try to sleep.

• Take paracetamol or ibuprofen to relieve pain and lower a high temperature if you are feeling unwell with the fever.

• Visit your doctor if your symptoms worsen or aren’t easing after a few days.

• You can buy lozenges and throat sprays at pharmacies that may help to soothe a sore throat.