Tonsillitis refers to the inflammation of the tonsils. Tonsils are two oval-shaped pads of tissue at the back of the throat on either side. Tonsils are generally considered the immune system’s first line of defense against viruses and bacterias that enter our mouths. This makes the tonsils vulnerable to infections and inflammation. This condition is usually prevalent in children who fall under the age group of 5 to 15 years old, however, it can affect people of any age group. Tonsillitis is so common that most people have this condition at least once in their lifetime. Some patients complain about frequent sore throats, throat infections, reduced sleep quality, etc. which are usually related to tonsillitis. Therefore, doctors recommend removing tonsils to prevent several bacterial and viral infections along with the improved quality of life. Tonsillectomy is considered one of the most effective ways to treat tonsillitis.
Tonsillectomy refers to the surgical removal of the tonsils. The tonsil’s immune functioning declines after puberty, and this is why some people prefer removing the tonsils via tonsillectomy. The surgeons often recommend tonsillectomy to prevent frequent recurrence of tonsillitis, improved breathing, and better sleep. However, removing tonsils does not increase the risk of infection, and adults with snoring problems benefit from the surgery the most.
Tonsillitis occurs as a result of the inflammation of the tonsils due to several bacterial or viral infections. The tonsils may become enlarged after persistent infections over a period of time which eventually results in tonsillitis.
Acute tonsillitis
Chronic tonsillitis
Recurring tonsillitis
In acute tonsillitis, the symptoms usually last around 3–4 days but may last up to 2 weeks.
There are various complications that can occur if you leave your tonsilitis untreated for a long period of time. Since tonsils are the first line of defense for bacterial and viral infections, untreated tonsils can cause swelling and inflammation over a period of time. Some of the complications of enlarged tonsils are as follows –
Tonsillitis can cause the throat to swell so much that it can cause trouble breathing. While some tonsillitis can go away on their own, some cases need surgical treatment. Consult a doctor if you experience the following signs-
Non-surgical treatment involves home remedies to cure tonsillitis via medications. The ENT specialist prescribes several antibiotics that can help fight the infection at home. However, if the main cause of tonsilitis is a viral infection, then these medications will be the only treatment suggested by the doctor. Moreover, home remedies can help create a comfortable environment for your child and ensure a faster recovery.
The antibiotics gradually help reduce the symptoms of tonsillitis. Therefore, antibiotics are more critical for patients who are at risk of complications from tonsillitis. However, the patients must complete the full course of antibiotics even if the symptoms of tonsillitis disappear entirely. Failure to comply with these instructions may result in increased infections, side effects, etc.
A tonsillectomy is performed if your swollen tonsils cause breathing problems and frequent sore throats. Tonsillitis can be a serious health issue in children as well as adults. The patients may need a tonsillectomy to get rid of painful and disturbing symptoms. Many insurance companies in India cover tonsillectomy. However, there is a possibility that the medical insurance coverage may differ from one policy to another. There are other payment options to pay for the treatment if you are looking for a tonsillectomy. A few of the insurance providers that may cover tonsillectomy treatment are as follows:
Tonsillectomy is the surgical removal of tonsils. This procedure is the only effective way to treat tonsillitis for long-term benefits in children as well as adults. Children with frequent sore throats, difficulty swallowing, etc., benefit from the surgery. In adults, patients with a history of chronic tonsillitis, snoring, bad breath, difficulty while sleeping, etc., profit the most from the surgery. Tonsillectomy not only promises long-term benefits but also significantly reduces the chances of recurrence of tonsillitis.
However, your tonsils can grow back after the surgery, but that is highly unlikely. You may still get strep throat and other throat infections after your tonsils are removed. The results of tonsillectomy can be long-lasting if you take care of a few things and follow good practices, like maintaining good hygiene, washing hands more often, etc.
Is it necessary to remove tonsils after adolescence?
It is not necessary to remove tonsils after adolescence if there are no recurrent episodes of tonsillitis.
Is tonsillitis contagious?
Yes, tonsillitis is a contagious disease which means you can get it if you come in close contact with someone who has it. The tonsillitis-causing bacteria can be communicated from one person to another through coughing or sneezing.
Can tonsils grow back after tonsil removal surgery?
It is possible for your tonsils to grow back after a tonsillectomy if the lymphoid tissues are not completely removed during the surgery.
Pristyn Care is a full-stack healthcare provider that is associated with multi-specialty hospitals and healthcare institutions around the country. We aim to ease the process of accessing advanced treatment and surgeries for each individual at affordable prices. We also have some of the best ENT surgeons and specialists with years of experience in tonsillectomy to ensure a very high success rate. Pristyn Care also promotes minimally invasive surgeries that are usually painless and have fewer chances of infection with a faster recovery duration. Some of the benefits of choosing Pristyn Care are –
Pristyn Care has some of the best ENT surgeons with years of experience in specializing in treating tonsillitis. All the specialists are well trained and upskilled in performing advanced treatment for the best outcomes with almost no risks. You can book an appointment with the ENT expert at Pristyn Care for a tonsil removal surgery: