What is the Difference Between Strep Throat and Tonsillitis?

Strep throat and tonsillitis are similar illnesses that affect the throat, but they have some key differences. Strep throat is an infection caused by a specific type of bacteria, Streptococcus, which leads to inflammation in the tonsils and surrounding area. Tonsillitis, on the other hand, is the inflammation (swelling) of the tonsils and can be caused by viruses or bacteria.

Some differences between strep throat and tonsillitis include:

Causes: Strep throat is exclusively caused by bacteria (Group A Streptococcus), while tonsillitis can be caused by viruses or bacteria.
Symptoms: Although both conditions share similar symptoms, such as a sore throat, painful swallowing, and swollen lymph nodes, some symptoms are more likely to occur with one or the other. For example, strep throat is more likely to cause fever, headache, and abdominal pain, while tonsillitis may cause redness and swelling in the tonsils, white or yellow discoloration on or near the tonsils, and a stiff neck.
Diagnosis: A doctor will perform a throat culture to determine the nature of the infection, which involves touching the back of the throat and tonsils with a cotton-tipped applicator. If the infection is caused by a virus, antibiotics will not help and need not be prescribed.
Treatment: Strep throat is treated with antibiotics to help clear the infection, while tonsillitis caused by a virus may not require antibiotics and can be treated with home remedies and over-the-counter medications.

It is possible for a person to have strep throat and tonsillitis at the same time, as strep throat can lead to tonsillitis. In most cases, symptoms will resolve within a few days of home care, such as rest, drinking warm liquids, or sucking on throat lozenges. However, if symptoms last longer than four days and show no signs of improvement or have gotten worse, you may need to see a doctor.