Tonsils and adenoids are common enough to people that they can identify the basics of these parts of the human anatomy. They can be linked to causing frequent illnesses and it is not unheard of for folks to need their tonsils removed. But what may be elusive to most is the function they serve and the issues that arise with them. Today, we at ENT Specialists would like to shine the light on tonsils and adenoids to better inform you.
Tonsils are part of the immune system and appear like lumps of soft tissue found on either side at the back of the mouth as you have two. The sizes vary from each individual. The primary purpose of tonsils is to trap germs; both bacteria and viruses that may be introduced to your system when you inhale. Immune cells in the tonsils produce antibodies that help kill off the germs and contribute to preventing throat and lung infections.
Adenoids are made of similar tissue and are included in the immune system. They can be found hanging from the upper part of the back of the nasal cavity. Adenoids increase in size following birth but typically cease growth during the ages of 3-7 years of age. Though you can find your tonsils with a mirror and opening your mouth wide, you cannot see your adenoids. If a doctor suspects a problem and needs to inspect the adenoids, they can do so by using a light and a small mirror positioned at the back of the mouth, or with a small flexible telescope. An X-ray might be ordered to determine the size of adenoids in rare occasions. Adenoids help to defend the body from infection much like tonsils do. They also trap bacteria and viruses that might be in the air as you breathe. Despite the aid in the preventative measures tonsils and adenoids contribute, there are other defense mechanisms in the body that can compensate for their loss if it is medically determined they can cause more harm than good.
Common illnesses of the tonsils:
Tonsillitis which is an infection of the tonsils. Below are the symptoms of tonsillitis.
– Sore throat
– Coughing
– Fever
– Headaches
– Pain or discomfort when swallowing
– Fatigue
– Nausea
– Swollen neck glands
Fairly common, but not always present is the pus that appears like white spots on swollen tonsils. Symptoms usually get worse within 2-3 days and then gradually dissipate within a week’s time. Glandular fever – Glandular fever, or infectious mononucleosis is the result of the Epstein-Barr virus, it will lead to a severe case of tonsillitis as well as additional symptoms.
Quinsy AKA Peritonsillar Abscess. Abscess is a collection of pus. Though uncommon, Quinsy is when an abscess develops next to a tonsil because of a bacterial infection and typically develops on just one side. Tonsillitis may be a byproduct.
Tonsils may be removed for one or more of the following reasons:
– If you have tonsillitis frequently.
– If you have large tonsils that are partially obstructing your airway.
– If you develop cancer of the tonsil.
Swollen or enlarged adenoids are common in children. Causes include:
• Infections with virus or bacteria germs.
• Allergies.
Swollen adenoids may not cause any symptoms or problems, but if they arise, below are some of the symptoms that might manifest. Adenoids are more likely to affect children.
– Breathing through the nose may create rattle-like sounds.
– Breathing through the nose becomes difficult, requiring constant mouth breathing.
– Chronic runny nose.
– Snoring at night. In severe cases sleep is disrupted due to blockage in the nose, creating challenges with breathing.
– Swollen adenoids may block the Eustachian tube entrance. This is the tube that travels from the back of the nose to the middle ear, which allows air to get into the middle ear. In the event that the tube is blocked it can cause fluid to build up in the middle ear.
If you are having problems with your tonsils or adenoids, contact ENT Specialists and let our experts find the solution to help your discomfort and constant ailments.
