Have you ever found yourself confused by the similarities in symptoms between tonsillitis and strep throat? While both have common symptoms, they are distinct conditions that are often confused due to their similar presentations. Understanding the difference between these two ailments is important for accurate diagnosis, appropriate treatment, and a prompt return to health. We spoke to Dr Sundhari V, ENT Specialist, Apollo Spectra Hospital, Chennai, who explained the difference between these health ailments.
What Is Tonsillitis
“Tonsillitis is a general term referring to the inflammation of the tonsils, the two oval-shaped pads of tissue at the back of the throat”, said Dr Sundhari. It can be caused by various viruses or bacteria, with the most common culprit being the same bacteria responsible for strep throat – Streptococcus. Tonsillitis typically presents with a sore throat, swollen tonsils, difficulty swallowing, and sometimes fever.
In some cases, the infection may escape the tonsil and extend into the surrounding area, leading to the development of a swollen and painful sore known as a peritonsillar abscess.
According to the context published in the Color Atlas of Oral and Maxillofacial Diseases, tonsillitis may occur in acute or chronic forms. Supportive therapy, including rest, fluids, warm salt water gargles, topical anaesthetics, single-dose dexamethasone, acetaminophen, and/or ibuprofen, is used to manage acute viral tonsillitis. In the case of chronic tonsillitis, broad-spectrum antibiotic therapy might be effective.
Also Read: Tonsil Cancer: Expert Explains Symptoms, Causes, Evaluation, & Treatment
What Is Strep Throat
Strep throat, on the other hand, specifically denotes an infection caused by the bacteria Streptococcus. While strep throat is a type of tonsillitis, not all tonsillitis cases are strep-related.
Dr Sundhari added, “Strep throat symptoms closely are similar to those of viral tonsillitis, which includes sore throat, swollen tonsils, and fever. This makes clinical diagnosis challenging without specific testing. Symptoms of strep include high-grade fever, ear pain, and fatigue.
It's critical to identify and treat strep infections because, if left untreated, the bacteria can spread to other parts of the body and cause serious consequences.”
Also Read: Confused Between Sore Throat And Strep Throat? Know Difference From An Expert
Key Differences between Tonsillitis and Strep Throat
Dr Sundhari listed the main differences between tonsillitis and strep throat as follows:
Causative Agent
Tonsillitis can be viral or bacterial, whereas strep throat is solely caused by the Streptococcus bacteria. A throat swab test is often required to confirm strep throat.
Severity and Complications
Strep throat is generally considered more severe than viral tonsillitis. Strep infections, if left untreated, can lead to complications, such as rheumatic fever or kidney inflammation, emphasising the importance of prompt diagnosis and antibiotic treatment.
Treatment
Viral tonsillitis is typically managed with rest, hydration, and symptom relief measures like pain relievers. Strep throat, being bacterial, requires a course of antibiotics to effectively eradicate the infection. Consulting a medical expert for the efficacy of medicines is important.
Contagious Nature
Strep throat is highly contagious, and individuals diagnosed with it should avoid close contact with others until they've completed a minimum of 24 hours of antibiotic treatment. Viral tonsillitis may also be contagious but often to a lesser extent.
Bottomline
Dr Sundhari concluded, “Tonsillitis and strep throat may appear interchangeable, but the reasons for their causes and potential complications make it difficult to be precise in diagnosis. Awareness of these distinctions helps individuals to judge their health, ensuring that the appropriate measures are taken to address these common but divergent throat conditions. Also, consulting a medical expert in this matter is important to understand one’s condition and to be able to differentiate between tonsillitis and strep throat.”
[Disclaimer: This article contains information provided by a registered healthcare professional and is for informational purposes only. Hence, we advise you to consult your expert if you experience any health complications.]