The tonsils are located in the throat and consist of two large glands. Tonsils help the immune system fight disease. They are designed to catch and trap foreign particles and then produce antibodies to destroy them. Sometimes tonsils can become inflamed and swollen. In some cases, they may heal on their own. However, at other times they may need to be removed. While this is most common in childhood, adults can be affected as well. If you think you might have swollen tonsils or tonsillitis, talk to your doctor to see if you need treatment.
Common Symptoms
The Kids Health website suggests using a mirror in a well lighted area to check your tonsils. If checking your child, use a flashlight to examine the tonsils. Look for tonsils that are red and enlarged. In some cases, they may also be covered with a white or yellow substance. If these symptoms are persistent, or accompanied by snoring noises when breathing, or sleep apnea, you may need to have the tonsils removed.
Additional Symptoms
According to the National Institutes of Health, you may need to have your tonsils removed if you have a chronic sore throat, infection or strep throat. If this happens seven or more times in one year, or five or more times during a two-year period, it is considered too often. In addition, if it becomes difficult or painful to swallow, your tonsils may be infected. Your physician can take a throat culture to determine the severity of the condition, and decide if the tonsils need to be removed.
Severe Symptoms
You should seek medical attention if breathing becomes restricted, your child is constantly sick or there is an abscess or other growth on the tonsils. Experts at the Mayo Clinic state that you may need a tonsillectomy, if you have a fever over 103 degrees F, a stiff and painful neck, can not swallow, or have abdominal pain and vomiting. If your child drools excessively due to inability to swallow, call your physician right away.
