Tonsils do not literally “fall out” of the body. This misconception stems from natural changes or surgical procedures. These small, oval-shaped tissue masses are located at the back of the throat and play a role in the body’s immune system. Understanding their function and what can affect them helps clarify their fate.
What Are Tonsils?
Tonsils are two round, fleshy pads of tissue found at the back of the throat, one on each side. They are commonly referred to as palatine tonsils. As part of the lymphatic system, tonsils act as a first line of defense against pathogens that enter the body through the mouth or nose. They contain white blood cells that help trap and kill germs, preventing them from spreading further into the body.
What Actually Happens to Tonsils?
Tonsils are most active and reach their largest size during childhood. As a person ages, especially after childhood, tonsils often naturally shrink in a process called involution, becoming less prominent as the immune system matures.
Surgical removal, known as a tonsillectomy, is a medical procedure performed to address specific health issues, not a natural occurrence. This surgery involves fully removing both palatine tonsils from the back of the throat. Common reasons for tonsillectomy include recurrent severe infections, such as chronic tonsillitis, or breathing problems that occur during sleep, like obstructive sleep apnea. For instance, a doctor might recommend removal if a person experiences at least seven tonsil infections in the past year, or five times a year for two consecutive years.
When Tonsils Need Attention
Tonsils may require medical evaluation. Frequent or severe tonsil infections, known as tonsillitis, are a concern. Symptoms include red, swollen tonsils, a sore throat, and difficulty or pain when swallowing. Other indicators can be a fever, enlarged and tender lymph nodes in the neck, and sometimes white or yellow spots on the tonsils.
Enlarged tonsils can also lead to breathing difficulties, particularly during sleep, resulting in snoring or even sleep apnea. Persistent symptoms like chronic sore throats, bad breath, or a muffled voice may also warrant medical attention. It is advisable to consult a healthcare professional if a sore throat lasts longer than 24 to 48 hours, if there is a high fever, or if swallowing or breathing becomes severely difficult. Immediate care is necessary for symptoms such as trouble breathing, extreme difficulty swallowing, or excessive drooling.