The tonsils and adenoids are made of lymph tissue in the throat. They help make substances called antibodies that help the body fight infection.
The tonsils can be seen on either side of the throat at the back of the throat. The adenoids are higher in the throat and usually cannot be seen.
Tonsillitis
Tonsillitis is an infection or inflammation of the tonsils that is caused by bacteria or a virus. The tonsils are in the back of the throat and are part of the immune system. Tonsillitis typically lasts from a few days up to a couple of weeks.
Tonsillitis caused by a virus goes away on its own. Tonsillitis caused by the bacteria that causes strep throat is treated with antibiotics.
You and your doctor may consider surgery to remove the tonsils (tonsillectomy) if you have serious complications or repeat infections.
Adenoiditis
Adenoiditis is an inflammation of the adenoids, which are small areas of tissue at the back of the nose and throat. They are part of the same tissue that forms the tonsils.
Adenoiditis often occurs with a sore throat or tonsillitis. Unless there is a bacterial infection, such as strep throat, adenoiditis can be treated at home like any sore throat.