Sore tonsil

Hi,

I've had a mild cold all week and I woke up this morning with a sharp pain when I swallow. I've had tonsilitis before, but this doesnt seem as bad as I can still eat and go about my everyday life ok, work etc.

My one tonsil has a white layer on it and a small purple blister, its swollen too.

Do you think this is just a virus and will go in time? I feel ok in myself and dont have a temperature or any other sympton.

Thanks in advance

[Vivek V Gurudutt, MD]

Exudate on a tonsil does not differentiate the type of infection as it can occur with various viral or bacterial infections.  Obviously, if you are not able to resolve the tonsillitis with conservative care, an evaluation and possible antibiotics would be needed.    Best wishes.

[mattski]

Thanks very much