Should I Get My Tonsils Removed

Did you know you really don’t need your tonsils? Most people find that fact astonishing. While the tonsils do have a function of protecting you from infections, many times the exact opposite occurs including sore throats, recurrent tonsillitis, and strep throat. If you are suffering from multiple throat infections, you may be asking, should I get my tonsils removed?

The Ice Cream Enticement

When kids need to have their tonsils removed, parents entice them with the promise of multiple bowls of ice cream afterward. That may work with kids, but not so much with adults. When an adult is told they need to have their tonsils removed, they need to know the reasons.

Most of the time an adult already knows before Coastal Ear, Nose & Throat recommends it. Recurrent tonsillitis, strep throat and multiple inflammations plague an adult who needs to have their tonsils removed.

Other Reasons To Have Your Tonsils Removed

Although most tonsils shrink as a person gets older, some get larger. This can interfere with sleeping and breathing at night.

Sleep Apnea

If your tonsils are swollen, your airway can become obstructed causing you to stop breathing during the night. You might be told by your partner that you snore. Removing your tonsils (and possibly your adenoids) can relieve you of this dangerous condition.

Growths On Your Tonsils

Sometimes a virus like human papillomavirus, or HPV, can cause a growth that may become cancerous. It is best to remove the tonsils.

You can also experience fever, swollen lymph nodes, pain when opening your mouth, and an abscess on your tonsils. This can be treated with antibiotics, but many physicians will recommend removing the tonsils.

Recurrent Tonsillitis

If you have chronic infections 5 or more times a year, Coastal Ear, Nose & Throat may recommend a tonsillectomy.

Even as an adult, you will still be rewarded with the multiple bowls of ice cream or sugar free jello if it helps.