Tonsillitis and strep throat are common contagious illnesses of the throat that share symptoms. Although they can sometimes be caused by the same bacteria, they're technically different infections. Show
Tonsillitis occurs when a virus or bacterium causes an infection in the tonsils (the soft tissue lumps at the back of the throat). Strep throat occurs when a certain type of bacteria known as Streptococcus causes an infection in the throat area, which can also include the tonsils. While both illnesses cause a sore throat and other overlapping symptoms, treatment will depend on the underlying cause of the infection. This article provides an overview of the primary differences between tonsillitis and strep throat. fstop123 / Getty ImagesSymptomsTonsillitis and strep throat share many symptoms. With both infections, you'll likely notice a painful sore throat as the main symptom. TonsillitisTonsillitis symptoms may vary based on whether the cause of the infection is a virus or bacterium. In general, most people report experiencing:
Tonsillitis that’s caused by a virus—which is the most common type of tonsillitis—may also come with viral symptoms, such as a cough, runny nose, hoarseness, and pink eye (conjunctivitis). Strep ThroatThere are several telltale signs of strep throat, including:
In addition, some people might also experience symptoms like
nausea, vomiting, fatigue,
body aches, and generally feeling unwell. When to See a Healthcare ProviderCall your healthcare provider or seek urgent medical care if you notice symptoms such as:
CausesThere are several potential causes of tonsillitis, and one main cause of strep throat. Both infections develop after person-to-person contact with the virus or bacterium, which triggers an inflammatory response from the body's immune system. TonsillitisMost tonsillitis cases happen when a person comes into contact with certain viruses. Other tonsillitis cases are caused by bacteria, usually the same one that causes strep throat. Some of the most common germ culprits include:
Strep ThroatA type of bacteria known as group A Streptococcus causes several different respiratory and skin infections, including strep throat. Streptococcus is easily transmitted through contact with bodily fluids of an infected person, even when there aren't any visible symptoms. This includes activities like:
The bacteria that cause strep throat is less commonly transmitted through food or water. DiagnosisIf you're noticing symptoms that indicate a tonsillitis or strep throat infection, it's wise to see a healthcare provider for a diagnosis, if accessible to you. The healthcare provider will start by asking about your medical history and symptoms before performing a physical exam to check for signs of infection. This usually includes:
From there, a throat culture may be ordered to determine whether Streptococcus ispresent. This involves using a long cotton swab to gather saliva and cells from the back of your throat, which may be uncomfortable and trigger your gag reflex for a few seconds. This sample will be sent to the lab to detect any bacteria. Results can take several minutes or a couple of days, depending on the type of test used. Complications of Strep ThroatIt's essential to diagnose and treat strep infections, as serious complications can occur if untreated and bacteria spread to other parts of the body. Some of these complications include:
TreatmentThe type of treatment recommended by your healthcare provider will depend on the underlying cause of the infection. TonsillitisTreatment for tonsillitis will depend on whether the infection was caused by a virus or bacterium, as follows:
Strep ThroatBecause strep throat is a bacterial infection, it can be treated with antibiotics. Antibiotics are prescription medications that can kill off bacteria or stop them from growing. They also work to drastically shorten the period of time that a person with strep throat is contagious, which helps reduce the spread of germs from person to person. Antibiotics can be taken orally (by mouth in pill form) for anywhere from five to 14 days, or given intravenously (through a vein in the arm) if the infection is severe. Common antibiotics prescribed for strep throat include:
For people allergic to penicillin, clindamycin, azithromycin, and clarithromycin may be recommended. In addition, home remedies like resting, drinking plenty of fluids, gargling with salt water, using throat lozenges, and taking OTC medications for pain or fever may also be used to help keep you comfortable while the antibiotics do their job. It’s important to take antibiotics exactly as your healthcare provider prescribes for the full length of time, even if you start to feel better after a few days. Stopping antibiotics too soon can lead to bacterial infections coming back, getting worse, or spreading to another area of the body. Tonsillitis vs. StrepA simple breakdown of the similarities and differences between tonsillitis and step throat is as follows: Similarities
Differences
SummaryTonsillitis and strep throat are sometimes referred to interchangeably, but they’re technically different infections. Tonsillitis occurs when a virus or bacterium causes the tonsils to swell, while strep throat happens when a specific bacteria causes swelling in the throat area. Both infections come with similar symptoms, such as sore throat, difficulty swallowing, headache, and fever, and are transmitted easily
from person to person. Antibiotics are the recommended treatment option for strep throat and cases of bacterial tonsillitis. Viral tonsillitis is treated with OTC remedies. A Word From VerywellVirtually everyone has been exposed to the germs that cause tonsillitis and strep throat, but they're more likely to make certain people sick. Children, younger people, and adults who have regular close contact with children are typically most at risk of getting these common infections. To reduce these chances, make sure to keep your hands washed, cover your mouth when coughing or sneezing, keep surfaces disinfected, and avoid contact with people who are sick. Frequently Asked Questions
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By Cristina
Mutchler Thanks for your feedback! Can tonsil stones be caused by strep?The most common causes of tonsil stones include: Bacterial infections. Viral infections. Streptococcus bacteria.
Are tonsil stones and strep the same?Tonsillitis and strep throat are common contagious illnesses of the throat that share symptoms. Although they can sometimes be caused by the same bacteria, they're technically different infections.
Are tonsil stones a sign of infection?While tonsil stones are usually a minor irritation, they sometimes lead to infection and discomfort. People can often resolve them at home with strategies such as salt water gargling, coughing, and using a cotton swab or toothbrush. If tonsil stones persist or cause painful symptoms, a person should contact a doctor.
What sickness gives you tonsil stones?Tonsil Stone Causes
Tonsil stones form when this debris hardens, or calcifies. This tends to happen most often in people who have long-term inflammation in their tonsils or repeated cases of tonsillitis.
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