How do i know if i have tonsillitis and not strep throat?

Two issues: Tonsillitis is a nonspecific term designating the tonsils as inflamed & may occur with many germs including strep. Strep throat indicates a specific agent streptococcus group a which is easily confirmed with a quick test or culture. While viral tonsillitis requires no abx & will self heal, strep needs rx to prevent complications & prevent spread within the community.

Two issues: Tonsillitis is a nonspecific term designating the tonsils as inflamed ; may occur with many germs including strep. Strep throat indicates a specific agent streptococcus group a which is easily confirmed with a quick test or culture. While viral tonsillitis requires no abx ; will self heal, strep needs rx to prevent complications ; prevent spread within the community.