ear, nose, and throat disorders
Throat Infection
Introduction
Infections of the throat and/or tonsils are common, particularly among children. Throat infections are usually caused by a virus but may be caused by bacteria such as streptococcal bacteria. Symptoms include severe pain with swallowing and swollen, red tonsils. The diagnosis is based on an examination of the throat. If untreated, tonsillopharyngitis that is caused by bacteria may become a tonsillar abscess. Pain is relieved with analgesics, and a streptococcal infection is treated with antibiotics. Sometimes the tonsils have to be surgically removed. The tonsils contain Components of the Immune System that is part of the body's immune defense system. Thus, the tonsils and nearby throat tissue frequently become infected by organisms that enter the nose and throat. People who have had their tonsils removed can still get throat infections. 