Q: Why does my 8-year-old's fever and chills keep returning after being treated for tonsillitis?
- Myeongchan Kim, MD
- May 7
- 2 min read
Updated: Jul 8
Medically reviewed by Sang Hyun Ahn, MD
Content edited by Myeongchan Kim, MD
This post is a dramatization of a question and answer session experienced by our actual medical reviewers. Please note that this content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health or treatment.
Question:
My 8-year-old child had a fever a while ago. We found out it wasn't the flu, but they had a severely swollen throat and were diagnosed with tonsillitis. They took prescribed medication for 5 days, the fever went down quickly, and they seemed to get much better.
However, about a week later, the fever returned in the evening along with chills. I gave them a fever reducer, and they were fine again. Then, three days after that (tonight), they are having chills and a fever once more.
Why is this happening? Could it just be fatigue? They also complain of a mild sore throat. I will take them to see a doctor tomorrow, but I'm worried. The fever does go down immediately after taking the fever reducer.
Answer:
You must be very worried since the fever keeps returning after the initial tonsillitis treatment.
[Summary of the Current Situation]
• Initial Tonsillitis: Improved after taking antibiotics for 5 days.
• Relapse: Chills and fever recurring in the evenings a week later, and again a few days after that.
• Good response to fever reducers, but a mild sore throat persists.
[Possible Causes]
1. Reinfection: New exposure to a different virus (other respiratory viruses besides the common cold or flu).
2. Incomplete Treatment: The tonsillitis may not have fully resolved, or the bacteria may have multiplied again.
3. Recurrent Tonsillitis: Relapses are common in 8-year-olds if they have enlarged tonsils or adenoids.
[What to Do at Home Now]
• Provide plenty of fluids (lukewarm water, broth) and soft foods.
• If the throat is uncomfortable, offer warm drinks, honey tea (safe for children over 1 year old), and have them gargle.
• Use fever reducers only when the child is uncomfortable (strictly follow the dosage intervals).
• Prevent transmission within the family by washing hands and wearing masks.
[Things to Check at Tomorrow's Doctor Visit]
✅ "Do we need to re-examine the condition of the tonsils?"
✅ "Is it necessary to add or change the antibiotics?"
✅ "If it's recurrent tonsillitis, is it time to consider a consultation with an ENT (Ear, Nose, and Throat) specialist?"
[Warning Signs to Watch for Tonight]
If you notice any of the following symptoms, visit the emergency room immediately:
• Difficulty swallowing saliva or excessive drooling.
• Changes in voice or a grunting/stridor sound when breathing.
• Inability to turn the head or a stiff neck.
• Lethargy and poor responsiveness even after taking a fever reducer.
Discussing the condition of the tonsils and the pattern of recurrence at your doctor's visit tomorrow will help establish a clear treatment plan. Please let a medical professional know if any new symptoms arise!
For extra peace of mind and clear guidance when tracking your child's symptoms, the FeverCoach app is always there to help.
