Complications of Tonsillitis

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Complications of tonsillitis are uncommon, but may include abscess (collection of pus) behind the tonsil (quinsy or peritonsillar abscess), inflammation of the middle ear (otitis media), rheumatic fever, kidney inflammation (glomerulonephritis) and, very rarely, blood poisoning (septicaemia).

Swellings from tonsillitis can be so severe they block the airways and prevent a person from breathing. Chronic tonsillitis can cause obstructive sleep apnoea, preventing full oxygen supplies getting to the brain and leading to disturbed sleeping patterns.