The tonsils are lymphatic tissue in the throat that kill bacteria, build immunity and help fight against infections. When the tonsils become the source of infection, they need to be removed surgically. Symptoms of repeated throat infections, snoring and breathing difficulty usually require removal of the tonsils.
Tonsillitis
Tonsillitis is infection of the tonsils, which more commonly occurs in children. Tonsillectomy is surgical removal of the tonsils. It is indicated with chronic or repeated infections of the tonsils. Recurrent throat infections--seven episodes in one year or five episodes per year in the preceding two years, or three or more episodes every year for three consecutive year--are usually an indication for tonsillectomy. The main symptom of tonsillitis is severe soreness or aching in the throat and difficulty and pain while swallowing. There will be associated high fever, pain in the ears and body aches and pains. The person may complain of white patches or pus points in the throat, redness in the throat and swollen neck glands. Children may have stomachache and vomiting. Chronic infection of the tonsils may result in bad breath.
Tonsillar Abscess
Sometimes the tonsil infection can spread, resulting in a collection of pus or abscess. This is usually seen in adults. Symptoms are severe pain on swallowing, high fever, drooling, difficulty in opening the mouth and swollen, painful neck glands. Usually a second attack of such an abscess warrants removal of the tonsils.
Septic Focus
The tonsils can act as a focus for infection that can spread, resulting in complications of the heart, kidney, sinuses and middle ear. This is another indication for removal of the tonsils.
Obstructive Apnea
When the tonsils are so swollen and big there may be severe difficulty while speaking, swallowing and breathing. Such symptoms also mandate removal of the tonsils. Obstructive apnea is cessation or blockage of breathing during sleep and occurs due to enlarged tonsils blocking the airway. This manifests as loud snoring and obstruction of breathing, frequent awakening from sleep and restless sleep. These obstructive symptoms, usually in children, may be an indication for removal of the tonsils.
