Tonsils are two oval-shaped masses of lymphoid tissue located at the back of the throat, which play a role in the immune system by helping to trap and fight infections. However, they can themselves become infected or inflamed, a condition known as tonsillitis. This can be caused by viral or bacterial infections, and may present with throat pain, fever, and difficulty swallowing. Chronic or recurrent tonsillitis may require medical or surgical treatment (tonsillectomy).
Who Needs Treatment?
Patients who experience:
- Sore throat, especially with red or swollen tonsils.
- White or yellow patches on the tonsils.
- Difficulty or pain while swallowing.
- Bad breath or a muffled voice.
- Snoring or breathing difficulty during sleep.
Types of Tonsil Conditions Treated
- Acute Tonsillitis: Sudden inflammation of the tonsils, usually due to viral or bacterial infection (e.g., strep throat).
- Chronic Tonsillitis: Persistent or frequently recurring tonsil inflammation.
- Tonsil Stones (Tonsilloliths): Hard deposits that form in the crevices of the tonsils, causing bad breath and irritation.
- Enlarged Tonsils (Hypertrophy): May cause snoring, sleep apnea, or breathing problems, especially in children.
- Tonsil Cancer: Rare, but malignant growths can develop in the tonsils, especially in those with tobacco or HPV exposure.
