Why does tonsils need to be removed

In other cases, antibiotics or a tonsillectomy might be necessary. A tonsillectomy can also be a treatment for breathing problems, like heavy snoring and sleep apnea. Tonsillitis and the need for tonsillectomies are more common in children than adults. However, people of any age can experience trouble with their tonsils and require surgery. One case of tonsillitis is not enough to warrant a tonsillectomy.

Usually, the surgery is a treatment option for those who are often sick with tonsillitis or strep throat. You will need to stop taking anti-inflammatory medicines two weeks before your surgery. This type of medication includes aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen.

Drugs of this kind can increase your risk of bleeding during and after your surgery. An empty stomach reduces the risk of feeling nauseous from the anesthetic. Be sure to plan for your at-home recovery. Someone will need to drive you home and help you for the first couple of days following your tonsillectomy. Most people stay home from work or school for about a week following surgery.

There are several different ways to remove tonsils. Another common method for tonsillectomy involves burning away the tissues through a process called cauterization. Ultrasonic vibration using sound waves is also used in some tonsillectomy procedures. Tonsillectomies usually take about a half hour. Medical staff will monitor your blood pressure and heart rate as you wake up. While tonsil infections are generally harmless, there are 3 unmistakable signs that a person needs a tonsillectomy.

Tonsils become infected from exposure to excess bacteria or viruses, commonly called tonsilitis. The result is swelling, inflammation, soreness, and pain. Most infections go away with antibiotics and similar medications. For some adults, tonsilitis can become chronic. If the infection happens 5 or more times a year, the doctor will propose removing the tonsils. The swollen tonsils can cause sleep apnea. Sleep apnea can happen if something blocks the upper airway during sleep.

As a result, some people stop breathing, start snoring or wake up gasping for breath. Long-term sleep apnea could lead to fatigue, restlessness, and even high blood pressure. Need to make an appointment with a Piedmont physician? Save time, book online. Close X. Back to Living Better Living Better newsletter. Zip Code. When should your tonsils be removed? There are two main reasons it may be time to undergo a tonsillectomy removal of the tonsils : You have chronic sleep apnea or snoring that disrupts your sleep.

What are the symptoms of tonsillitis? How can enlarged tonsils be harmful? Tonsils and adenoids help trap bacteria and viruses that people breathe in, helping prevent throat and lung infections. Drake says. A tonsillectomy is performed under general anesthesia. During surgery, the physician uses a scalpel to remove the tonsils. The operation is generally done on an outpatient basis, meaning the patient can go home on the day of the surgery.

Today, about , tonsillectomies are performed every year in the U. Although rare, some people experience post-surgical complications such as bleeding.