Signs You Need Tonsil Surgery
Tonsil surgery, also known as tonsillectomy, is a common procedure to remove the tonsils at the back of your throat.
While tonsils play a role in the immune system, they can become a source of discomfort and health concerns when they become infected or enlarged. If you’ve been experiencing frequent throat infections, difficulty swallowing, or other discomforts related to your tonsils, it might be time to consider tonsil surgery.
In this blog, we’ll explore the telltale signs you need your tonsils removed, helping you make an informed decision for overall well-being.
6 Signs You Need Your Tonsils Removed
Tonsil surgery is a surgical procedure performed to remove the tonsils. It is typically recommended when the tonsils cause recurrent or severe health issues.
Here are some signs that may indicate you need tonsil surgery-
- Constant throat infections- For patients with recurrent throat infections that do not respond well to medical treatment, the doctor might recommend tonsil removal.
- Difficulty sleeping- Large tonsils can obstruct the airway during sleep, leading to snoring, frequent awakenings, and disrupted sleep patterns. Sleep deprivation can significantly affect your energy levels, mood, and well-being.
- Tonsil infections- If you experience recurrent episodes of tonsil infections, with symptoms such as sore throat, difficulty swallowing, fever, and swollen lymph nodes, your doctor may consider a tonsillectomy.
- Bad breath- Chronic tonsil infections can cause persistent bad breath, even after practicing good oral hygiene. Surgery might be suggested if other treatments fail to address the issue.
- Tonsil growth- Often, tonsil growths can obstruct the airway, leading to sleep apnea or other breathing difficulties, especially during sleep. Surgery may be considered if you experience heavy snoring, pauses in breathing, or chronic sleep disturbances.
- Diminished life quality– Tonsil infections can make it harder for patients to eat, breathe and sleep, directly impacting their daily lives and lowering their quality of life.
If you are suffering from any of the issues mentioned above, you should consult an expert ENT specialist for treatment immediately.
Tonsil Surgery Procedure
The tonsil removal surgery is generally performed under general anesthesia to avoid pain or discomfort.
The surgeon will use a mouth gag to keep your mouth open throughout the procedure, allowing access to the tonsils. The tonsils are then removed using a steel blade or coblator based on the patient’s and doctor’s preference.
Once the tonsils are removed, the surgeon may choose to leave the wound to heal on its own or close it with dissolvable stitches.
The patient will be then monitored in the recovery area for observation. The recovery time for tonsillectomy is about 1-2 weeks. If the patient has any pain or discomfort during their recovery period, it is managed through over-the-counter painkillers and anti-inflammatories.
Best Age to Remove Tonsils
There is no specific tonsil removal age limit, and the decision to perform a tonsillectomy is typically based on medical indications and the severity of the patient’s condition.
However, the typical tonsillectomy age is above three years because the risk of dehydration and bleeding is greater among small children.
Can Your Tonsils Grow Back?
In most cases, tonsils do not grow back after a complete tonsillectomy. However, in rare instances, some tissue regrowth or partial regrowth of the tonsils may occur.
During a tonsillectomy, most of the tonsils are removed. But, some tissue often remains, so tonsils occasionally can regrow — although they probably won’t grow back to their original size.
Talk to your ENT doctor if you’re worried your child’s tonsils are growing back. But just because they still get sore throat doesn’t necessarily mean the tonsils are growing back. Other things, like colds, allergies, and dry air, can also cause sore throat.
Contact Dr. Peter Bapista for Tonsils Removal
Dr. Peter Baptista is a highly regarded ENT specialist and tonsils doctor in Dubai, known for his expertise in treating ear, nose, and throat ailments. Dr. Peter offers top-notch ENT care and personalized treatment options.
Book an appointment for an apt diagnosis and treatment for your ENT issues.
Also Read- Tonsillitis - Symptoms And Other Facts
Dr Peter Baptista Jardin
European Board Certified ENT Doctor In Dubai
Dr. Peter Baptista Jardin is an ENT specialist with a special interest in treating sleep apnea. He is a revered expert in Spain for performing the first ever robotic transoral surgery in 2011, and the only series of hypoglossal nerve stimulation proved revolutionary for obstructive sleep apnea treatment worldwide. He currently serves as an ENT doctor in Dubai’s Al Zahra Hospital.
