Tonsillitis

Tonsillitis occurs when the tonsils become infected. The tonsils are two small pieces of soft tissue, one on each side, at the back of the throat. You can see your tonsils in the mirror by opening your mouth and sticking out your tongue. The tonsils are part of your immune system and help fight pathogens. When the tonsils become inflamed, they become swollen and painful, and you may feel pain when swallowing.