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When should tonsils be removed? |
Most sore throats are due to viral ‘pharyngitis’, not tonsillitis. Removing tonsils does not prevent further attacks in these cases.
The tonsils are two soft, pink lumps sitting at the back of the mouth, one on each side. They help the body fight infection. You can see the tonsils by looking into the mouth. Use a bright light and say aaah!
What is tonsillitis?
Acute tonsillitis occurs when the tonsils get infected, becoming swollen and red, sometimes with pus on the surface. This causes sore throat, difficulty swallowing, swollen glands in the neck, fever, bad breath and feeling unwell. Tonsillitis can be caused by a bacterial or viral infection and is often treated with antibiotics.
However, most sore throats are due to pharyngitis, in which the back of the throat becomes red and painful. This is usually part of a cold or flu due to a virus, and antibiotics are not generally helpful.
When is surgery required?
Tonsillectomy (removal of the tonsils) is sometimes carried out for children with very frequent attacks of tonsillitis. Most experts recommend the operation only after more than three attacks of acute tonsillitis a year for two years or more.
Be sure that the sore throats are actually tonsillitis, not pharyngitis. Removing the tonsils will not prevent pharyngitis! Check with your doctor.
Tonsils are also removed sometimes if they are constantly swollen causing breathing difficulty or snoring, or if they are chronically infected.Disclaimer:
Please note this information was correct at time of printing.
For up to date information, speak to your doctor. Source: Winter 1999 Edition | Page 4
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