For a tonsillitis service in your area (likely the UK given the prevalence of NHS services), you should contact NHS 111 for advice, visit your local GP practice, or find a pharmacy offering the Sore Throat Test and Treat service to get advice, a clinical assessment, and potentially a throat swab and antibiotics if a bacterial infection is suspected. For urgent, severe symptoms like difficulty breathing, call 999 or go to A&E.
When to Use Each Service
NHS 111: For general advice, or if your sore throat is painful enough to make it hard to eat or drink.
Your Local Pharmacy: Ask about the "Sore Throat Test and Treat" service. Pharmacists can assess your symptoms, perform a throat swab to check for bacterial infection, and provide treatment, including antibiotics, if needed.
GP Practice: Contact your GP for advice if your symptoms are severe, don't improve after four days, or if you experience recurrent bouts of tonsillitis.
A&E/999: Seek immediate emergency care if you have symptoms like difficulty breathing or can't swallow fluids.
