Tonsils
The adenoids and tonsils are tissue masses that bare a resemblance to the lymph nodes found in the neck, groin, and armpits. These are generally referred to as glands. While tonsils are easily recognized in the back of the throat, adenoids are high in the throat located behind the soft palate (roof of the mouth) and can only be seen with special instruments.
Both of these organs are used to catch bacteria coming into the body and to sample them, allowing themselves to become infected. This occurs most frequently in early years and is believed to be instrumental in the development of a child’s immune system. By sampling these ambient bacteria, the body then develops antibodies to fight off infections. Interestingly, children that must have tonsils and adenoids removed suffer no loss in their body’s ability to fight infection.
The most common afflictions of the tonsils and adenoids are recurring infections, and enlargement that may interfere with breathing and or swallowing. This can lead to chronic tonsillitis which causes foul smelling bacteria.
In order to diagnose the patient, a physician will review a child’s medical history, conduct a physical examination, and take blood tests, throat and strep cultures, and Xrays. Once the disease has been diagnosed, the physician will prescribe treatment. Commonly, this will consist of antibiotics which are used to treat bacterial infections such as streptococcus. In some cases, removal of the tonsils and adenoids will be recommended in order to prevent recurring infections and increase the ease of breathing in the patient.
Tonsillitis may occur when one or both tonsils become infected. This is apparent when the tonsil(s) swell, become inflamed and red, have a white or yellow coating, the throat becomes sore and swollen, the lymph nodes are swollen, the breath becomes foul, the lymph nodes become swollen, or the patient is running a fever.
Signs of infected adenoids are less obvious as the tissue is not visible. However, if the patient is breathing through the nose instead of the mouth, then the patient may experience snoring, sleep apnea (sudden stop in breathing during the night for several seconds), noisy mouth breathing during the day, recurrent ear infections, or a blockage of the nose.
If surgery is necessary, then the patient should avoid taking any aspirin or medications containing aspirin. The patient will be placed under general anesthesia or given a local anesthetic upon arrival at the hospital. The post operation recovery time varies from individual to individual but it is not uncommon for patients to be released from the hospital in as little as two to ten hours. Most hospitals in the United States, such as those found in New York or New Jersey, have excellent facilities for this type of surgery.
Copyright ENT and Allergy Associates, LLP
Physicians:
04/15/2010
