Surprisingly, you may not actually need your tonsils. Despite their role in protecting against infections, they can sometimes contribute to issues like sore throats, recurrent tonsillitis, and strep throat. If you find yourself plagued by multiple throat infections, you might be contemplating the question: Is it time to consider getting my tonsils removed?
When an adult is advised to undergo tonsil removal, understanding the reasons is crucial. In many cases, adults are already aware of the need due to certain recurring illnesses or ailments.
Reasons why an adult may need their tonsils removed
While it’s less common for an adult to undergo a tonsillectomy, there are some common reasons when it may be recommended.
Recurring tonsillitis
Tonsillitis is a prevalent condition resulting from an infection in the tonsils. Common symptoms include a sore throat, fever, and swollen lymph nodes.
If you experience chronic infections, occurring five or more times a year, an ENT specialist may suggest a tonsillectomy.
Recurrent strep throat
Strep throat is an extremely contagious infection caused by Streptococcus bacteria.
A physician may recommend removing your tonsils if you’ve had strep throat seven times or more within a 12-month span. This procedure can be effective in reducing the recurrence of strep throat cases.
Sleep apnea
Enlarged tonsils can lead to airway obstruction, causing interruptions in breathing during the night. Snoring may be reported by your partner.
The removal of your tonsils (and potentially adenoids) can alleviate this potentially hazardous condition.
Growths on the tonsils
Occasionally, a virus such as human papillomavirus (HPV) can lead to the development of a growth that has the potential to become cancerous, making tonsil removal advisable.
Symptoms may include fever, swollen lymph nodes, pain upon mouth opening, and the presence of an abscess on the tonsils. While antibiotics can treat these symptoms, many doctors may recommend the removal of the tonsils.
If you are concerned about your tonsils, find an ENT specialist near you for an evaluation.