The tonsils are located in the back of the mouth on either side of the uvula.
Tonsillitis refers to an infection in one or both tonsils. One sign is swelling of the tonsils. Other signs
and symptoms include red tonsils, a white or yellow coating on the tonsils, changes in voice,
sore throat, pain with swallowing, swollen lymph nodes in
the neck, fever, and/or bad breath.
The adenoid gland is a midline structure located in the very back of the nose in a region called the nasopharynx.
An enlarged adenoid may present with the following symptoms: snoring, difficulty breathing through the nose,
breathing
through the mouth instead of the nose, lowered vocal pitch, runny nose, recurrent ear infections, and/or episodes of breathlessness
when snoring (sleep apnea).
The two primary reasons for tonsil and/or adenoid removal are (1) recurrent infection despite antibiotic therapy
and (2) difficulty breathing due to enlarged tonsils and/or adenoid.
Such obstruction causes snoring and disturbed sleep that leads to daytime sleepiness in adults and
behavioral problems in children. Chronic mouth breathing from large tonsils and adenoids may alter facial growth
and cause improper alignment of teeth.
Adenoid enlargement and/or infection may also affect the eustachian tube, a passage between the back of the
nose and the middle ear cavity. This can lead to chronic ear infections and potential hearing loss. In a
developing child, such hearing loss, if untreated, may lead to a permanent speech delay.
It is imperative for you to observe for the above symptoms and discuss them with our doctors. Audiometric
testing to evaluate potential hearing deficit for children of all ages is performed on our premises.
Surgery to remove the tonsils and/or adenoid gland is safe and effective. The procedure generally takes less than
1 hour and the patient typically returns home the same day. Clearly written post-operative instructions are
reviewed by our staff before the surgery. Risks, benefits, and alternatives are also discussed beforehand.
What are Tonsils and Adenoids?
Tonsillectomy Procedure Brochure
Adenoidectomy Procedure Brochure