What is a common treatment option for bacterial tonsillitis?

Bacterial tonsillitis is commonly treated with antibiotics because the condition is caused by bacterial infections, most often streptococcal bacteria. Antibiotics help to eliminate the bacteria responsible for the infection, reducing the risk of complications, alleviating symptoms more quickly, and preventing the spread of the infection to others.

While over-the-counter pain relievers can be useful for symptom management and rest and hydration are important supportive measures for recovery, they do not address the underlying cause of the infection. Antiviral medications are typically used for viral infections, not bacterial ones, which makes them inappropriate for treating bacterial tonsillitis.