The human body is intricate and complex. It has many organs and parts, all synchronized to work together. This is why there are specialists for almost every part of your body.
Ear, nose, and throat doctors have specialized in treating diseases and infections of the ear, nose, and throat. A recent study has shown that 15% of people older than 18 have some form of trouble hearing. and many adults have had to have their tonsils taken out at some point in their lives. Pain on one side of your throat and trouble swallowing could point to a lot of things, but it could also mean you ought to have your tonsils taken out.
Tonsil removal surgery also referred to as a tonsillectomy, is most commonly done on children. However, here are some conditions that may require an adult to undergo the procedure.
1. If You Have Chronic Tonsillitis
Tonsillitis is an infection of the tonsils that makes them swollen and inflamed. Tonsillitis is accompanied by fevers and a painfully sore throat, making it difficult to swallow. This infection is typically caused by bacteria, although viruses such as herpes simplex and the measles virus may cause tonsillitis.
Sometimes, tonsillitis is dangerous and chronic, forcing you to undergo a tonsillectomy. If you develop more than five infections in one year, it may be time to see an ENT doctor to get your tonsils taken out. Research has proved that people who had their tonsils taken out suffered from fewer sore throats than those who didn’t have the surgery.
2. If You’re Showing Resistance to Antibiotics
If you have an infection in your tonsils that isn’t responding to antibiotics, doctors would recommend getting your tonsils removed. This is also an appropriate option for people that are allergic to antibiotic medicines.
3. If You Have Enlarged Tonsils
Enlarged tonsils can make it difficult for you to swallow. It can also lead to obstructive sleep apnea, a condition that makes it difficult for you to breathe during sleep. Under such circumstances, ENT doctors ought to take your tonsils ought to remove the obstruction.
However, it is essential to note that enlarged tonsils cause sleep apnea in children more often than they do in adults. Therefore, having a tonsillectomy done will cure sleep apnea in children more effectively than in adults.
4. If You Have Abnormal Growths on Your Tonsils
Cancer of the tonsils is on the steady rise, and this is partly because of its association with the human papillomavirus infection (HPV). HPV causes tumors in the back of the throat, especially the tonsils and at the base of the tongue. Expert ear, nose, and throat doctors would recommend getting your tonsils taken out as a way of getting rid of these tumors.
When Should You See Professional Doctors?
Sore throats aren’t uncommon, and thus it may be challenging to know when exactly you ought to see an ear, nose, and throat doctor for a tonsillectomy. However, if you notice any of these symptoms, you should call your doctor.
- You keep running fevers
- There is pain on one side of your throat
- Painful swallowing
- You keep getting a severe sore throat
- You have enlarged lymph glands in your neck
About the Procedure
Trained specialists perform tonsillectomies under general anesthesia. Doctors have the option of using one of several techniques, based on their preference, and the entire procedure takes close to an hour.
Adults and children undergo the same procedure, but adults are usually more uncomfortable after the surgery than children. Pain medication and avoiding eating acidic food will help you ease the pain after having your tonsils taken out.
ENT Care and its Implication on a Healthy and Happy Life
Ear, nose, and throat doctors may be trained in other secondary fields such as sleep science, facial reconstruction surgery, and other significant areas. This implies that they have the experience and skills it takes to help you correct your problem, and help you live more comfortably.
