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Tonsils & Adenoids

The tonsils are two masses of tissue found on either side of the back of the throat. The adenoids are located high in the throat behind the nose and roof of the mouth.

Together they form part of the ring of glandular tissue at the back of the throat. The tonsils and adenoids assist the body in defense against infection by “sampling” entering bacteria and viruses and becoming infected themselves. They then help form antibodies to resist and fight future infections.

However, the tonsils and adenoids often become susceptible to recurrent bacterial infections and obstruction that may lead to breathing, swallowing and sleep problems. These conditions are most common in children.

Tonsillitis

Tonsillitis is an inflammation of the tonsils, the fleshy areas at the back of the throat, caused by a virus or bacteria. This condition is common in children and spreads through contact with throat or nasal fluids. The tonsils become swollen, red and painful and may be coated with a yellow or white substance.

Problems affecting tonsils and adenoids

Tonsils comprise two round lumps located in the back of the throat. Adenoids are situated behind the nose, such that they’re not visible through the nose or mouth unless you use special instruments. Tonsils and adenoids stop growing between the ages of 3 and 7 years, and begin to shrink in your teenage years until they almost completely disappear.

Tonsils and adenoids tend to become inflamed and enlarged when fighting pathogens. However, can enlarge for no reason. Some of the common problems affecting tonsils and adenoids include:

Generally, Dr. Cohen may recommend eye surgery to treat:

  • Considerable enlargement – which leads to nasal obstruction, difficulty breathing and swallowing, and sleep problems
  • Recurrent nose and throat infections
  • Chronic tonsillitis
  • Abscesses around the tonsils
  • Infections of tiny pockets within the tonsils – produce white deposits and cause bad breath
  • Cancers of the tonsil

Treatments

Bacterial infections are first treated with antibiotic therapy. But if the infections are recurrent, Dr. Cohen may recommend surgical removal of the tonsils (tonsillectomy) and/or adenoids (adenoidectomy) in a simple, outpatient procedure. This should not have any noticeable impact on the immune system of an adult.

The treatment for children and adults are the same. If you suspect that you or your child has tonsil or adenoid infections, please reach out to Dr. Cohen for proper diagnosis and treatment.

To request an appointment with Dr. Cohen, please call (818) 609-0600.