Is Tonsillitis Contagious?

If you or your child is struggling with a sore throat, fever, or swollen tonsils, your first concern is likely, “Is tonsillitis contagious?” At Magnus Medical, our doctors hear this question every day. The short answer is no, but the bacteria and viruses that cause tonsillitis can be transmitted to others. 

Table of content

• What is tonsillitis?

• What are the symptoms of tonsillitis?

• Is bacterial tonsillitis contagious?

• How long is tonsillitis contagious?

• Is tonsillitis contagious through kissing?

• Why do I keep getting tonsillitis?

• Can vaping cause tonsillitis?

• Conclusion 

What is tonsillitis?

Tonsillitis is an inflammation of the tonsils, which causes them to become irritated, swollen, and often painful. The tonsils are two oval-shaped pads of tissue at the back of the throat - one on each side - and they help the body fight infection. Tonsillitis most commonly affects teenagers and children, but adults can get it too. In many cases, it’s caused by a viral infection, though bacterial infections, such as strep throat. 

What are the symptoms of tonsillitis?

Here are common symptoms of tonsillitis:

• Sore throat
• Swollen or red tonsils
• Yellow or white patches on the tonsils
• Difficult or painful swallowing 
• Fever and chills
• Swollen lymph nodes in the neck 
• Fatigue 
• Bad breath 

If these signs sound familiar, you are not alone. You can talk to Glenroy GP for help. 

Is bacterial tonsillitis contagious?

The bacteria that cause this illness are known as Streptococcal throat infections (caused by Group A Streptococcus). A person with this infection can spread it to others, but once they take the right antibiotics for at least 24 hours, they are much less likely to infect anyone else. 

How long is tonsillitis contagious?

Bacterial tonsillitis infection is contagious, but after taking the right antibiotics prescribed by a doctor for at least 24 hours, the chance of infection will be reduced.

Is tonsillitis contagious through kissing?

Yes, sharing utensils, or kissing someone who has it, could transmit tonsillitis because tonsillitis can be a viral illness (e.g. Epstein-Barr Virus) and these types of viruses are transmitted through saliva.

Why do I keep getting tonsillitis?

Recurrent tonsillitis is due to the persistence of bacteria and viruses in hidden niches of the tonsils. The three major causes could include;

• Bacterial biofilms. When bacteria can conceal themselves inside the little holes of tonsils, the biofilm is formed to protect themselves and to live in safely. However, after that when the host's body becomes weak or in an adverse state, bacteria may disseminate again and result in recurrent infection.
• Genetic influence. Certain individuals possess an inherited trait, leading to an impaired immune response towards specific bacteria. 
• Environmental and lifestyle influence. Some cases may be due to exposure to secondary vaping products and smoke, or due to allergic conditions of the tonsils. 

If you have recurrent infections then the appropriate course is to see your GP who can review the possibility of changes in lifestyle.

Can vaping cause tonsillitis?

Vaping can lead to tonsillitis, although it may not be the direct reason. Some of the ingredients and chemicals found in vape liquids such as flavourings and nicotine can cause irritation of the throat and tonsils. It may be this irritation that renders the tonsils more susceptible to infection. Several things are said to cause tonsillitis:

• Irritation – vapor from the vape pen may irritate delicate throat tissues.
• Dryness of throat – minimal mucus production means the tonsils are not adequately protected against infection.
• Exposure to germs – when users share vape pens it's possible for them to transfer viruses and bacteria which may lead to tonsillitis.

While more research is required to fully confirm the connection between tonsillitis and vaping, it’s clear that vaping can worsen the throat and lead to conditions like tonsillitis, especially in people who vape frequently. 

What to eat when you have tonsillitis?

If you are struggling with tonsillitis, you need to try the following foods:

• Cold or icy foods: Frozen yogurt, ice creams, or ice pops to numb the throat and temporarily relieve pain. 
• Smoothies: Blended non-acidic fruit drinks. 
• Creamy carbohydrates: Mashed potatoes, well-cooked oatmeal, and warm, soft pasta. 

Pathology Glenroy tests can also be done for tonsillitis to find the cause, especially if the infection is severe or not improving. 

Conclusion

Certain ingredients and chemicals in vape liquids, such as flavourings and nicotine, can irritate the throat and tonsils. The blog discusses whether tonsillitis is contagious, how it is spread and what foods you should eat to ease the pain. For additional treatment options, you can contact Magnus Medical, where doctors will diagnose and provide effective treatment.