The tonsils and adenoids are pieces of tissue that fight infection and are part of the body’s immune system. The tonsils are located in the back of the mouth on both sides of the throat, while the adenoids are located high in the throat behind the nose. When the tonsils and adenoids are infected (which is known as tonsillitis and adenoiditis), they can become enlarged and cause problems. When this happens chronically, they may need to be removed. This procedure is known as a tonsillectomy and adenoidectomy, or T&A.
What Are the Symptoms of Tonsillitis & Adenoiditis?
Your child may have inflamed tonsils and adenoids if they exhibit the following symptoms:
- Sore throat
- Headache
- Fever
- Decreased appetite
- Nausea
- Stomach aches
- Painful swallowing
- Redness in the throat
- Noisy breathing or mouth breathing
- Snoring
- Nasal speech
What Are the Complications of Tonsillitis & Adenoiditis?
Tonsillitis and adenoiditis can cause problems such as:
- Obstructive sleep apnea
- Tonsil stones
- Trouble swallowing
- Tumor in the throat or nasal passage
- Bleeding from the tonsils
- Uncomfortable breathing
- Significant blockage
When Is a T&A Procedure Performed?
T&A procedures are recommended for children who have repeated tonsil and adenoid infections that do not respond to less invasive treatments. Most doctors will recommend a T&A if a child:
- Has more than seven sore throats in one year
- Has more than five sore throats in each of two years
- Has more than three sore throats in each of three years
These guidelines were issued by the American Academy of Otolaryngology.
How Is a T&A Performed?
In most cases, a T&A is performed on an outpatient basis, meaning your child can return home the same day. The first step of a T&A is for your child to receive anesthesia. Then, the physician will remove the tonsils and adenoids through the mouth—there is no need to make an incision elsewhere. Finally, your child will recover in a recovery room. If all goes well, they can go home within a few hours.
T&A is a common procedure performed approximately 400,000 times per year.
For more information or to schedule an appointment, call Charleston ENT & Allergy today.