Do I Need to Have My Tonsils Removed?

Tonsil removal (tonsillectomy) is a normal thing that many people end up deciding to do. There are many reasons for getting a tonsillectomy, some of these reasons include repeated instances of acute tonsillitis, tonsillitis that does not respond well to medications that are prescribed by your doctor, adenoiditis that continues to come back, tonsil stones, or enlarged tonsils that are causing complications with breathing. It is crucial to speak with your doctor if you are experiencing any of these things to figure out what the best course of action is.

What Are The Tonsils? 

The tonsils are two round, fleshy pads that are filled with white blood cells, and sit in the back of the throat. Similar to lymph nodes, the tonsils help filter out germs that enter the body through the nose and mouth. By doing so, they help keep the body safe from infection. The position that they sit in allows them to ‘catch’ any germs or bacteria that are trying to penetrate the body.

What Is a Tonsillectomy? 

A tonsillectomy is a procedure that removes the tonsils. This is usually necessary if your tonsils become red and inflamed persistently. If you end up needing to have your tonsils taken out, there is no need to worry about your body’s ability to fight off infections. Your immune system will still be able to protect your body from disease and infection.

During a tonsillectomy, general anesthesia is used to make sure that you feel no pain throughout the procedure. Either surgical tools or radio frequencies are used to remove the tonsils.

Over-the-counter analgesics, like acetaminophen, can help manage any pain and discomfort. Tonsillectomy recovery generally takes 10 to 14 days.

Connect With Experts at Lakeside Allergy ENT In Rockwall and Forney, TX 

At Lakeside Allergy ENT our four board-certified doctors have almost 50 years of combined experience in the medical field. They can provide you with crucial insight regarding your tonsils to determine if a tonsillectomy is the right choice for you. If you would like to consult with one of our doctors, please call us at 972-771-5443, or request an appointment here.