Tonsillitis & Sore Throat GP Consultations
Speak to a Private GP for sore throat treatment: fast, safe and convenient.
AccessGP offers same-day online GP consultations for sore throats, tonsillitis and throat infections. Whether you’re struggling with pain when swallowing or recurring tonsillitis, our experienced UK-registered doctors can assess your symptoms, offer advice and prescribe treatments if appropriate. Same-day treatment, all from home.
If you have a medical emergency you should contact 999 or go to A&E
A medical emergency includes things like:
- chest pain
- severe or sudden breathing difficulties
- suspected stroke or seizure
- bleeding heavily
⚠️ If you have difficulty breathing, drooling or are unable to swallow liquids, call 999 or go to A&E immediately.
These may be signs of a more serious infection requiring in-person assessment.
If you develop emergency symptoms whilst waiting for your appointment, please call 999 or attend your closest A&E.
When to speak to a GP
Mild sore throats often improve within a few days, but you should speak to a GP if:
- Your sore throat lasts longer than a week
- You have a high temperature or swollen neck glands
- You notice white patches or pus on your tonsils
- You’re getting recurrent tonsillitis or repeated infections
- You’re struggling to eat or drink due to pain
What is tonsillitis?
Tonsillitis is inflammation and infection of the tonsils, the soft tissue pads at the back of your throat. It is very common and can affect both children and adults. Most cases settle within a few days, although some people have repeated episodes.
Tonsillitis is usually caused by viruses, but sometimes by bacteria. The symptoms often overlap with other respiratory infections, which is why a GP assessment can be helpful to decide whether you need self care, testing, or medication.
What causes tonsillitis?
Most cases of tonsillitis are caused by viruses that spread through droplets when people cough, sneeze, talk closely, or share utensils. Viral tonsillitis often comes with other cold symptoms like a runny nose, cough, or mild aches.
Some episodes are caused by bacteria, most commonly group A streptococcus. Bacterial tonsillitis may cause a more severe sore throat, higher temperatures, and more pronounced swelling of the tonsils.
It is not always possible to tell viral and bacterial infections apart based solely on appearance. A GP will consider your symptoms, risk factors, and overall picture before advising on antibiotics.
Common symptoms of tonsillitis
Symptoms can range from mild to very uncomfortable. Typical features include:
- Sore throat that can feel sharp, burning, or scratchy
- Pain when swallowing, sometimes radiating to the ears
- Red, swollen tonsils with or without white or yellow spots
- Fever or feeling hot and shivery
- Headache or general aches
- Tiredness and reduced appetite
- Swollen or tender glands in the neck
- Bad breath, especially when the tonsils are coated
Children may become clingy, off their food, or unusually irritable when their throat is sore.
Common treatments for tonsillitis
Treatment depends on whether your tonsillitis is likely to be viral or bacterial, how unwell you are, and whether you have any risk factors or complications.
Self care and symptom relief
Helpful measures often include:
- Keeping hydrated, sipping fluids regularly
- Paracetamol or ibuprofen if suitable for you
- Soft, cool foods that are easier to swallow
- Throat lozenges or sprays, which may give short term comfort
Antibiotics
Antibiotics are not needed for most sore throats because many are viral. A GP may consider antibiotics if your symptoms suggest bacterial infection or if you have a higher risk of complications.
Steroids
A short course of steroid tablets may occasionally be offered to reduce throat swelling when swallowing is very difficult. This is usually a one off decision after a GP assessment.
Recurrent tonsillitis
Frequent episodes may need review to see how often infections occur and how much they affect daily life. In some cases a referral to an ear, nose, and throat specialist may be appropriate.
How AccessGP can support you with tonsillitis
At AccessGP, your sore throat or tonsillitis assessment is carried out by an experienced GP. We take the time to understand your symptoms, medical history, and any medicines you already take, then decide the safest next steps together.
Through an online GP appointment we can:
- Assess your symptoms and examine your throat over video when appropriate
- Advise on self care, pain relief, and recovery
- Prescribe antibiotics when they are clinically appropriate
- Discuss safety netting so you know what to look out for next
- Share a summary with your usual GP if you request it
Many people choose a digital GP service when searching for an online GP for tonsillitis or a private GP near me because it offers convenience, reassurance, and responsible prescribing without long waiting times.
Can tonsillitis be prevented?
It is not always possible to prevent tonsillitis, especially when viruses circulate in workplaces, schools, or crowded settings. However, you can reduce the risk of respiratory infections spreading by:
- Washing hands regularly or using sanitiser
- Avoiding sharing cutlery, drinks, or toothbrushes
- Covering coughs and sneezes and discarding tissues promptly
- Resting at home when you feel unwell to reduce spread to others
People who experience frequent episodes should speak to a GP. There may be ways to reduce how often infections occur or review whether a specialist opinion is needed.
Book your sore throat appointment
Book your appointment securely below.
Same-day, evening, and weekend consultations available.
Other common respiratory infections
Sore throats and tonsillitis often occur alongside other respiratory infections. Many are viral and improve with rest and good hydration, while some chest infections can be more serious and benefit from earlier GP review.
Upper respiratory infections
These affect the nose, sinuses, throat, and ears. Common examples include:
- Common cold: blocked or runny nose, sneezing, mild cough.
- Viral sore throat: similar to mild tonsillitis, often alongside cold symptoms.
- Sinusitis: facial pressure, blocked nose, thick discharge, reduced smell.
- Laryngitis: hoarse voice, dry throat, irritating cough.
- Ear infections: ear pain, fullness, reduced hearing, sometimes fever.
Lower respiratory infections
These affect the chest and lungs, and can cause:
- Bronchitis: persistent cough, chest tightness, tiredness.
- Chest infections: cough with phlegm, breathlessness, fever, chest discomfort.
When to seek help
You should speak to a GP urgently if you notice:
- Breathlessness that is new or worsening
- Chest pain when breathing or coughing
- High fever that does not improve
- Cough with blood stained phlegm
- Symptoms not improving after a couple of weeks
How a digital GP service can help
Many people contact AccessGP when unsure whether a cough, cold, or sore throat needs antibiotics or simply time and self care. Through an online GP appointment we can:
- Take a full history of your symptoms
- Examine your throat or breathing over video where appropriate
- Decide whether antibiotics or further tests are needed
- Provide safety netting and clear follow up advice
If you have been searching for a private GP near me, online GP for sore throat, or online doctor for chest infection, AccessGP offers reassuring and responsible medical advice without long waits.
How Online Tonsillitis Consultations Work
Book an appointment.
Choose a time that suits you.
Speak to a GP online.
Discuss your symptoms and medical history.
Receive treatment.
If suitable, your prescription can be sent electronically to your chosen pharmacy. Fast, Discreet, Clinically-Safe.
Why choose AccessGP?
✅ Doctor-led: All consultations are with experienced UK GPs.
✅ Flexible: Evening and weekend appointments available.
✅ Connected Care: Follow-up options and test referrals when needed.
Private GP appointments available across England.
FAQs on online tonsillitis GP appointments
Can I get antibiotics for tonsillitis online?
Yes, you can receive antibiotics for tonsillitis through an online GP appointment, but only when they are clinically appropriate. Many sore throats are caused by viruses, so antibiotics would not help and may cause side effects.
During your AccessGP consultation, a UK registered GP will ask about your symptoms in detail and, if helpful, examine your throat over video. If the pattern suggests a bacterial infection and antibiotics are safe for you, a prescription can be sent electronically to your chosen pharmacy.
If antibiotics are unlikely to help, your GP will explain why and advise on the safest ways to manage symptoms at home.
How can I tell if it’s viral or bacterial tonsillitis?
Your GP will assess your symptoms, exploring symptoms such as fever, white patches or swollen glands to decide whether antibiotics are suitable. If you find you experience various infections or are feeling run down, speak to a GP or consider our Health Screening options and blood tests.
How quickly can I get treatment?
Same day — appointments are available 7 days a week. We are able to issue treatments securely using our digital-pharmacy partners.
Why can’t I just buy antibiotics online without speaking to a doctor?
At AccessGP, we prioritise safety and good clinical care. A consultation ensures antibiotics are only prescribed when necessary and that you receive the right treatment for your symptoms.
❓See our general AccessGP FAQ’s here.
Book your appointment today.