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Tonsils and adenoids are masses of tissue that are similar to the lymph nodes found in the neck. Tonsils are the two masses on the back of the throat. Adenoids are high in the throat behind the nose are not visible through the mouth without special instruments.
Scientists believe tonsils and adenoids work as part of the body's immune system by filtering germs that attempt to invade the body, and that they help to develop antibodies to germs.
The most common problems affecting the tonsils and adenoids are recurrent infections and significant enlargement or obstruction that causes breathing and swallowing problems.Tumors are rare, but can grow on the tonsils.
Bacterial infections of the tonsils are first treated with antibiotics. Sometimes, removal of the tonsils and/or adenoids may be recommended. The primary reasons for tonsil and/or adenoid removal are recurrent infection despite antibiotic therapy and difficulty breathing due to enlarged tonsils and/or adenoids.
Such obstruction causes snoring and disturbed sleep that leads to daytime sleepiness in adults and behavioral problems in children. Enlarged tonsils and adenoids may cause malformations of the face and improper alignment of the teeth as well.
Enlarged adenoidsmey lead to frequent ear infections and potential hearing loss.
Recent studies indicate adenoidectomy may be a beneficial treatment for some children with chronic earaches accompanied by fluid in the middle ear (otitis media with effusion).
In adults, the possibility of cancer or a tumor may be another reason for removing the tonsils and adenoids.
In some patients, especially those with infectious mononucleosis, severe enlargement may obstruct the airway. For those patients, treatment with steroids (e.g., cortisone) is sometimes helpful. |
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