Tonsillitis

What are tonsils?<p>Tonsils are lumps of tissue at the back of the throat.

There are two of them, one on each side.

Along with the adenoids, tonsils are part of the lymphatic system.

The lymphatic system clears away infection and keeps body fluids in balance.

Tonsils and adenoids work by trapping the germs coming in through the mouth and nose.</p>What is tonsillitis?<p>Tonsillitis is an inflammation (swelling) of the tonsils.

Sometimes along with tonsillitis, the adenoids are also swollen.</p>What causes tonsillitis?<p>The cause of tonsillitis is usually a viral infection.

Bacterial infections such <span class="qt1">as</span> strep throat can also cause tonsillitis.</p>Who is at risk for tonsillitis?<p>Tonsillitis is most common in children over age two.

Almost every child in the United St