Tonsils are located in the back of the throat and work in combination with the body's immune system to filter viruses, germs and bacteria as they enter the body through the mouth and nose. Tonsils can become infected and inflamed when a virus or irritation is present. The result is typically referred to as tonsillitis. Tonsillitis that occurs frequently due to allergies or illness may be a factor in having to have them taken out. Knowing what the signs are of infected tonsils will help to determine if medical care is needed.
Swelling
One of the more prominent signs of infected tonsils is swelling. This can mean that both or just one of the tonsils are enlarged. The tonsils are located in the very back of the throat; one on each side. They visibly appear as smooth skin colored almond-like areas. If the tonsils become inflamed or irritated they can begin to swell. This could be due to eating a hot meal or from a mild cold or allergy. If they become severely infected and develop into tonsillitis they may appear to be red and swollen up to the size of a small grape. In some cases they may appear as if they almost touch each other. Swelled and inflamed tonsils can make swallowing difficult.
Pus Pockets
Once the tonsils become infected they may begin to change color that is visible upon inspection. They may appear to be bright red or have spots of green and white on them. These are actually pus pockets that have formed within the layers of the tonsil. The tonsils are lymph nodes that filter out debris and bacteria from going down the throat and entering the respiratory system. Once they become infected repeatedly, the tonsils may not be able to properly defend the body against incoming bacteria and viruses. This means the infection in the tonsils could become chronic or repeatedly occur over time. Many physicians will initially try to treat tonsillitis or infected tonsils with a course of a strong antibiotic such as penicillin or amoxicillin. If the infection continues or reoccurs more than twice a year, he may suggest having the tonsils and possibly the adenoids removed via surgery. This surgery is called a tonsillectomy.
Sore Throat
A sore throat may also be an indication of infected tonsils. An acute sore throat can be a direct result of a throat infection or upper respiratory infection stemming from tonsillitis. An irritated throat may also be caused from the tonsils being inflamed and rubbing against food that is being eaten. A throat that is irritated and sore could indicate that there is a sinus infection--especially if the nasal passages are draining and the patient is complaining of a cough.
