A tonsil polyp is a benign, fleshy growth on the tonsils, typically non-cancerous and representing an overgrowth of normal tissue. Any new growth in the throat warrants medical evaluation to confirm its benign nature and rule out other conditions.
Visual Characteristics of Tonsil Polyps
Tonsil polyps are smooth, pink or reddish, fleshy growths. They often exhibit a teardrop or round shape and are typically attached to the tonsil by a narrow stalk, known as being pedunculated. These growths can vary in size, from approximately 0.5 to 3.8 centimeters. They often protrude from the tonsil surface into the oropharynx, making them visible upon examination.
Common Symptoms and Potential Causes
Individuals with tonsil polyps may experience a range of symptoms, though some might remain asymptomatic until the polyp grows larger. Common complaints include a sensation of a lump or foreign body in the throat and occasional difficulty swallowing. A persistent tickle in the throat, a mild sore throat, or even a dry, irritating cough can also occur. In some instances, depending on size and location, a polyp might contribute to snoring or a change in voice.
The exact cause is often unclear, but they are considered benign overgrowths of normal tissue. Chronic inflammation or irritation of the tonsils may be a contributing factor, potentially stemming from conditions like recurrent tonsillitis. Some cases have also been linked to allergic reactions, suggesting a role for environmental irritants.
Differentiating Polyps from Other Tonsil Issues
Differentiating tonsil polyps from other tonsil conditions is important due to overlapping symptoms. Tonsil stones, or tonsilloliths, are hard, white, or yellowish deposits that form in the tonsil crypts and often produce a foul odor, unlike the soft, fleshy texture of a polyp. Tonsillitis, an infection of the tonsils, typically presents with red, swollen tonsils, often accompanied by white patches of pus, fever, and significant pain, which are not characteristic signs of a simple polyp. Cancerous lesions on the tonsil, in contrast, may appear irregular, ulcerated, or feel firm to the touch, and can cause persistent pain or bleeding. Only a medical professional can definitively differentiate these conditions, often requiring further diagnosis.
Medical Evaluation and Treatment
Seek medical attention from an Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) specialist if you suspect a tonsil polyp. The diagnostic process typically involves a thorough physical examination of the throat. To confirm the nature of the growth and rule out malignancy, a biopsy is frequently performed.
Once diagnosed, treatment options for tonsil polyps depend on their size and whether they are causing symptoms. Small, asymptomatic polyps may be observed. If causing discomfort, surgical excision (polypectomy) is a common procedure.