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You may be able to relieve symptoms of tonsillitis with self-care practices, including using a humidifier and gargling with salt water.

Tonsillitis is a condition that occurs when your tonsils become infected. It can be caused by both bacterial and viral infections. Tonsillitis can lead to symptoms such as:

  • swollen or inflamed tonsils
  • sore throat
  • pain when swallowing
  • fever
  • hoarse voice
  • bad breath
  • ear pain

Viral infections that cause tonsillitis pass on their own, while bacterial infections may require antibiotics. Treatment may also focus on relieving the symptoms of tonsillitis, such as using NSAIDs like ibuprofen to relieve inflammation and pain.

There are a number of home remedies that can effectively treat or reduce the symptoms of tonsillitis.

Gargling and rinsing with warm salt water can soothe a sore throat and pain caused by tonsillitis. It can also reduce inflammation and may even help treat infections.

Stir about ½ teaspoon of salt in about 4 ounces of warm water until the salt is dissolved. Gargle and swish through the mouth for several seconds and then spit it out. You can rinse with regular water.

Lozenges can help to soothe the throat, but they’re not all created equal. Some lozenges will contain ingredients with natural anti-inflammatory properties or ingredients that can soothe pain on their own.

Lozenges containing licorice can have strong anti-inflammatory benefits, soothing discomfort and swelling in the tonsils and throat.

Lozenges should not be given to young children due to the choking risk. Instead, consider using a throat spray to provide relief. Your child’s pediatrician may recommend an over-the-counter throat spray or prescribe medication.

Warm beverages like tea can help reduce the discomfort caused by tonsillitis. Raw honey, often added to tea, has strong antibacterial and antimicrobial properties and may help treat the infections that cause tonsillitis.

According to a 2021 review, honey may not provide immediate cough relief or reduce the severity of symptoms. However, it can be used to relieve coughs after treatment.

The review of studies further suggested that honey can help children with upper respiratory infections by reducing the duration of the infection and relieving the severity of their cough.

Drink tea warm instead of hot, and stir in the honey until dissolved. Certain teas may strengthen the benefits of this home remedy. Ginger tea, for example, is a strong anti-inflammatory, as is fennel tea, which can help to reduce inflammation and discomfort.

Cold can be highly effective in temporarily relieving pain, inflammation, and swelling that often comes with tonsillitis.

Popsicles, frozen drinks like ICEEs, and frozen foods like ice cream may be particularly helpful to young children who can’t use other home remedies safely. Older children and adults can also suck on ice chips.

Humidifiers can help relieve a sore throat if the air is dry or you’re experiencing dry mouth as a result of tonsillitis.

Dry air can irritate the throat, and humidifiers can help soothe discomfort in the throat and tonsils by adding moisture back into the air. Cool-mist humidifiers are most beneficial, especially when viruses are the cause of tonsillitis.

Keep your humidifier on as needed, especially when you sleep at night, until the tonsillitis subsides. If you don’t have a humidifier and want fast relief, sitting in a room filled with steam from the shower can also provide humidity that can reduce symptoms.

Certain symptoms indicate that you may need to see your doctor for treatment. Certain types of bacterial infections that can affect the tonsils, like strep throat, may require prescription antibiotics.

You should make an appointment to see your doctor if you experience a combination of the following symptoms:

  • fever
  • sore or scratchy throat that has not improved after 4 days
  • painful swallowing, or difficulty swallowing
  • fatigue
  • fussiness in infants and young children
  • swollen lymph node that does not improve over time

These symptoms may indicate a bacterial infection that requires antibiotics.

Many cases of tonsillitis resolve quickly. Tonsillitis caused by viruses typically resolves within 7 to 10 days after rest and plenty of fluids. Bacterial tonsillitis may take about a week to go away, though many people start feeling better a day or so after taking the antibiotics.

Whether you’re getting prescription treatment or sticking to home remedies, drink plenty of fluids and get lots of rest to help your body recover.

In rare, severe cases, a tonsillectomy (or surgical removal of the tonsils) may be used to treat recurrent and persistent cases of tonsillitis. This is typically an outpatient procedure. Many people, children and adults alike, will make a full recovery within fourteen days.

Can you get rid of tonsillitis without antibiotics?

Yes. You can try home remedies, such as gargling salt water or adding honey to your tea, to relieve your symptoms. You may also consider taking over-the-counter pain medication to help reduce pain and fever. It may take a few days up to 2 weeks for your symptoms to subside.

Antibiotics are typically only recommended if you’re experiencing bacterial tonsillitis, such as strep throat. Taking antibiotics can reduce the chance of spreading the infection within 1 day.

Is it OK to leave tonsillitis untreated?

Leaving tonsillitis untreated can pose serious health risks for you and others around you. It’s best to explore treatment options if you’re dealing with tonsillitis to prevent complications, such as:

It’s particularly important to seek treatment to reduce the risk of spreading bacterial infections to others.

How long do swollen tonsils last?

If you’re experiencing swollen tonsils, it can take 3 to 4 days for your symptoms to go away.