Tonsils are small, oval-shaped pads of lymphoid tissue located at the back of the throat. They are part of the body’s immune system, helping to protect against infections. A tonsillectomy is a surgical procedure to remove these tonsils. While often performed for frequent infections, it also addresses breathing issues during sleep and other problems caused by enlarged tonsils.
Fewer Infections
One primary reason for tonsillectomy is to reduce the frequency and severity of recurrent throat infections. Though part of the immune system, tonsils can become a reservoir for bacteria, leading to repeated tonsillitis. Chronic tonsillitis involves ongoing inflammation. Surgical removal of the tonsils can significantly decrease the incidence of such infections, including recurrent strep throat.
Tonsillectomy can lead to a marked reduction in strep throat episodes and general sore throats for individuals with a history of repeated infections. For children, this can mean fewer diagnosed infections and reduced school absences. While tonsillectomy does not completely eliminate the risk of future throat infections, it substantially lowers their occurrence and severity. The procedure is often recommended for individuals experiencing at least seven infections in one year, or five per year for two consecutive years, or three per year for three consecutive years.
Better Breathing and Sleep
Enlarged tonsils can obstruct the airway, leading to breathing and sleep-related issues. This obstruction is a common cause of chronic snoring and obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). In OSA, breathing repeatedly stops or becomes shallow during sleep. This condition is prevalent in children with enlarged tonsils, though it can affect adults.
Removing the tonsils can alleviate this blockage, leading to improved airflow and more restful sleep. Tonsillectomy can resolve or significantly improve sleep apnea symptoms. Better sleep quality translates into reduced daytime sleepiness, improved concentration, and a lower risk of associated health issues.
Relief from Chronic Pain
Chronically inflamed tonsils can cause persistent discomfort. Individuals may experience ongoing sore throats, difficulty swallowing (dysphagia), and a sensation of irritation in the throat. When tonsillitis becomes chronic, it can lead to persistent inflammation even without active bacterial infection.
Tonsillectomy addresses the source of this ongoing inflammation by removing the affected tissue. This can provide substantial relief from persistent throat pain and swallowing difficulties. Patients often report fewer and less severe sore throats after the procedure.
Elimination of Tonsil Stones
Tonsil stones, also known as tonsilloliths, are calcified deposits that form in the crevices or crypts within the tonsils. They are composed of trapped debris that hardens. Though often harmless, tonsil stones can cause unpleasant symptoms.
Tonsil stones commonly lead to bad breath (halitosis) due to the bacteria they harbor. Individuals may also experience discomfort, a persistent sore throat, or a sensation of something being stuck in the throat. Surgical removal of the tonsils eliminates the structures where these deposits accumulate. This procedure offers a definitive solution for recurrent tonsil stones, resolving the symptoms and preventing their reoccurrence.