Tonsil and Adenoid Removal in Fairhope, AL
What Your Tonsils and Adenoids Do
Your tonsils are masses of soft tissue at the back of your throat, which help prevent bacteria and viruses from causing an infection. Your adenoids are tissue patches located behind the tonsils at the back of your throat. They also trap bacteria and viruses.
Signs and Symptoms of Tonsil and Adenoid Problems
Due to the concentration of bacteria and viruses surrounding them, the tonsils and adenoids can become infected easily. Common signs and symptoms of tonsil and adenoid problems include swelling and redness on the tonsils and adenoids, white patches on the tonsils, a severe sore throat or difficulty swallowing, a scratchy, hoarse voice, and swelling and pain in the lymph nodes in the neck. Tonsil and adenoid problems can also cause headaches or neck pain.
Consequences of Tonsil and Adenoid Problems
If tonsil and adenoid problems go untreated, the tonsils and adenoids can swell to the point of blocking the airway, causing breathing difficulties.
When to Consider Having Tonsils and Adenoids Removed
It’s often helpful to remove tonsils and adenoids if your child is experiencing chronic sore throats, frequent strep throats, tonsillitis, or chronic throat pain. An ENT doctor may also consider tonsil and adenoid removal if antibiotics don’t relieve an infection.
Tonsil and Adenoid Removal
Tonsil and adenoid removal is performed on an outpatient basis under general anesthesia. The procedure takes about 30 to 45 minutes, and recovery in the office takes a few hours.
Recovery from tonsil and adenoid removal surgery takes about three weeks. It’s important to keep your child away from people who are ill, and your child should avoid going swimming during the recovery period.
Prevention of Tonsil and Adenoid Problems
Tonsil and adenoid problems can often be prevented by minimizing exposure to viruses and bacteria. Remember to teach your children about:
- Covering their mouths when they sneeze or cough
- Washing their hands thoroughly several times each day
- Not sharing eating utensils, glassware, drinks, or food with others
- Changing to a new toothbrush after being ill
