What causes tonsillitis?

Joan Haizlip, MSN
Cardiology (Cardiovascular Disease)
Tonsillitis is usually caused by Streptococcus bacterium, or Type A streptococcus.   Sometimes tonsillitis is caused by other bacteria and viruses.  A throat culture will determine the exact cause of the tonsillitis.

The tonsils are a part of the body's immune system. They help to keep some germs from getting into the rest of the body through the mouth. If the tonsils become weakened, tonsillitis can develop from an existing infection. The same virus that gives you a common cold is the most typical virus that can cause tonsillitis. Strep throat and other bacterial infections also cause tonsillitis.

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Viral Throat Infections

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