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Does Your Child Need Their Tonsils Removed?

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For many children, it feels like a right of passage to have their tonsils removed. While not every child goes through a tonsillectomy, the procedure is not uncommon. If your child requires tonsil removal, you may have a lot of questions. This guide will help you understand the signs he or she needs to have their tonsils removed.

What Are Tonsils?

First, you need to understand the role of tonsils and exactly what they do. The tonsils are situated at the back of the throat, and they catch germs entering through the mouth or nose, alerting the immune system. They serve a helpful purpose in telling the immune system it needs to take action.

What Illnesses Lead to a Tonsillectomy?

One of the biggest issues leading to a tonsillectomy is throat infection. Throat infection leads to swollen lymph nodes, which are much more than uncomfortable. If your child has frequent throat infections, he or she would benefit from having their tonsils removed. In fact, some children have throat infections every few months over the course of several years.

Another issue that leads to a need to remove the tonsils is the inability to swallow. Children who have difficulty swallowing may struggle to eat properly, and they may live with this discomfort for weeks on end.

Individuals with enlarged tonsils may also suffer from sleep apnea, which wakes them up throughout the night. Your child may not appear well-rested in the morning, even after several hours of lying down. As a result, you may feel that your child has behavioral issues or is not able to concentrate well in school.

Ultimately, tonsillitis is the result of an infection or swelling of the tonsils, and it can have detrimental consequences for your child's health and well-being.

Are There Other Ways to Treat Tonsillitis?

Doctors may first try to treat tonsillitis by other means before they consider surgery. If the cause of the tonsillitis is linked to a virus, your child may not have other options. If the cause is linked to bacteria, the doctor may first prescribe antibiotics.

What Should You Do Next?

If you believe your child may need a tonsillectomy, you need to consult with your child's pediatrician. The pediatrician will be able to diagnose any problems with your child's tonsils and whether or not surgery is the next best step. Call a pediatrician today to discuss the next steps. You can also contact clinics like Willow Oak Pediatrics for more information.

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