Tonsillitis can affect both children and adults, although it is more common in children. The condition occurs when the tonsils, which are part of the body’s immune system and help fight infections, become infected themselves. Inflammation leads to discomfort and can sometimes cause complications such as ear pain or an abscess (a collection of pus). Tonsillitis can be classified as either acute (short-term) or chronic (long-term). Acute tonsillitis usually resolves with treatment, while chronic tonsillitis may require more extensive interventions like a tonsillectomy (surgical removal of the tonsils).