What To Expect From Having Tonsils Removed

The tonsils are a pair of small glands found in the back of the throat. The purpose of tonsils is to house the white blood cells that help fight infections. However, in an ironic twist, tonsils can become infected by themselves. When the tonsils become infected, it is referred to as tonsillitis. Some patients who have frequent tonsillitis episodes might benefit from a tonsillectomy, which is a procedure that removes the tonsils entirely. Before getting a tonsillectomy, however, it's important to know what to expect and how to prepare. Children are more likely to need a tonsillectomy than adults, but there isn't an age limit on who can require surgery to remove their tonsils.

With this in mind, get the full details on what to expect from a tonsillectomy now.

What A Tonsillectomy Treats

A tonsillectomy is performed to remove the tonsils. Though these glands help make the white blood cells that are vital to the immune system, individuals can live without them. The most common reason a tonsillectomy is performed is to treat tonsillitis, which occurs when the tonsils become infected, leading to swelling and a sore throat. In addition, patients might have trouble swallowing, a fever, and swollen neck glands. During a medical exam, the tonsils might have a yellow or whitish coating, and the throat might be reddened. Tonsillitis isn't automatically a case for a tonsillectomy. Many of these infections either resolve on their own or can be treated with a course of antibiotics. However, if a course of antibiotics doesn't treat the infection properly, or patients experience recurring bouts of tonsillitis, they might be a good case for a tonsillectomy. There are a few other reasons this procedure may be performed as well. Sometimes breathing issues like sleep apnea are exacerbated by the tonsils, and removing them helps open up the throat and respiratory pathways.

Learn about how patients can prepare now.