Tonsils are a small but important part of the immune system, and we usually don't realize its vital role until it causes problems. This lymphatic tissue protects us from germs that enter through the mouth and nose, and that's why there is swelling and pain when there is an infection or inflammation. Although the tonsils are more active in children, they can also cause frequent sore throats, tonsil stones or infections in adults. In this article from your doctor, we intend to share the facts of tonsillitis with you in a more detailed manner. Stay with us.

Where is the tonsil and what is its role in the body?

Pharyngeal tonsils or palatal tonsils are two small lumps of lymph tissue located on both sides of the throat. If you open your mouth and hold the mirror in front of your face, you will see two fleshy ridges on both sides of the end of the throat: these are the tonsils of the throat. These tonsils are the body's first line of defense against microbes that enter the body through the mouth and nose.

The main role of the tonsils is to recognize and trap invading viruses and bacteria. This lymphatic tissue detects microbes with the help of immune cells and makes the immune system react. This is why tonsils swell and hurt when a new infectious agent enters.

Mild swelling is a sign that the immune system is working, not necessarily malfunctioning. In childhood, tonsils are bigger; Because the body constantly encounters new microbes. But in older age, the immune system has become so strong that other tonsils play a lesser role. However, they can still become infected, tonsil stones, or enlarged and cause problems.

photo of tonsil throat

Tonsils are actually two small oval glands made of lymphatic tissue, which are located on both sides of the end of the pharynx, just behind the small tongue. When the tonsils become inflamed or diseased, a person usually feels like a hard lump or lump in the throat that causes pain or scratching every time they swallow. In more severe cases, this swelling can cause referred ear pain, voice changes (hoarseness) and even difficulty breathing while sleeping.

The difference between throat tonsil and third tonsil and other tonsils

Many people think that there are only two tonsils, but actually our throat has a "lymphatic ring" that contains several types of tonsils. The pharyngeal tonsils are the visible tonsils next to the tongue, while the third tonsil is located behind the nose and above the throat and is not visible to the eye. The third tonsil is more important in children, because if it is enlarged, it narrows the way of breathing and causes snoring, mouth breathing, or even sleep problems.

But throat tonsils are more involved in repeated infections, sore throats and problems such as tonsil stones. In addition, lingual tonsils at the end of the tongue and tubular tonsils near the ear also play a role in the immune system. So the tonsil is just one part of a larger complex; But the most problems we experience are usually related to these two main tonsils.

common problems of tonsils

The throat tonsils may become inflamed for various reasons, bacterial tonsil infection, viral infection or even "tonsill stones". Tonsillitis can be acute, chronic or recurrent. In the acute case, we have severe sore throat, fever and painful swallowing; In chronic condition, the symptoms are mild but longer lasting.

One of the important problems of tonsils is tonsil stones, which are caused by the accumulation of leftover food, bacteria and dead cells in the recesses of the tonsils. These stones cause bad breath and the feeling of a foreign body in the throat. Although they are not dangerous, they are annoying. In rarer cases, a peritonsillar abscess develops, which is a severe infection that causes jaw locking, unilateral pain, and high fever, and usually requires drainage.

The common problems of tonsils in general are:

• Tonsillitis (inflammation of the tonsils; bacterial or viral)
• Tonsil hypertrophy (excessive size of tonsils)
• Tonsil stones (calcium masses in tonsil cavities)
Peritonsillar abscess (accumulation of pus around the tonsils)
• pitted tonsils (the presence of deep cracks in the tonsil tissue)
• Tonsil neoplasms (benign or malignant masses - tonsil cancer)

symptoms of throat tonsil involvement

The most important symptoms of tonsils is a sore throat; But this is not the only sign. Severe redness, presence of white spots or pus, fever, headache and ear pain can also accompany it. Swallowing food or even water usually becomes difficult and painful. Some people feel hoarseness or dry throat, because tonsillitis affects the passage of air.

If tonsil stones are present, bad breath or a feeling of something stuck in the throat are common symptoms. In acute cases, the pain is not only when swallowing, but also shoots to the ear or jaw. Enlargement of lymph nodes in the neck is also normal, because the body is fighting the infection.

The cause of conflict and tonsillitis

Sometimes allergies cause tonsil irritation and chronic swelling. Even a weak immune system can cause frequent infections. In some people, the structure of the tonsils is such that it has deep depressions, and this causes the accumulation of bacteria and causes chronic inflammation.

causes of tonsillitis in children

Children are more prone to tonsillitis than adults, because the immune system is learning and forming. Contact with crowded environments, kindergartens and schools also increases the possibility of transmission of viruses. The third tonsil is also usually more active in children, and growing tonsils in children can aggravate the problem.

Diagnosis of throat tonsil problems

Diagnosis is usually done by examining the mouth and throat. The doctor examines the shape of the tonsils, the presence of swelling, white spots or pus with a light and examination stick. The lymph nodes of the neck are also touched to determine whether the body is infected or not. In cases of suspected streptococcal infection, a rapid diagnostic test or throat culture is performed. If there is an abscess or severe symptoms, an ultrasound or CT scan may be necessary. In very specific and suspicious cases of cancer, sampling is done.

Treatment of tonsillitis problems

In cases of excessive recurrence of infection or abscess formation, the doctor may suggest removing the tonsils. If the tonsil stone is the main problem, it can be treated with simple methods, washing or laser if needed.

complications of throat tonsil problems

If tonsillitis is not treated, it may spread and spread around the throat and neck. Abscess, high fever, bad breath and chronic sore throat are common complications. In children, there is a possibility of sleep and breathing problems that can affect growth and concentration. Untreated strep infections can cause more serious complications such as rheumatic fever, although these complications are rare these days. For this reason, correct diagnosis and treatment are very important.

prevention of tonsillitis problems

The most important way of prevention is to strengthen the immune system and observe hygiene. Washing your hands regularly, avoiding sharing dishes, eating healthy and getting enough sleep are key factors. Keeping the air moist makes the throat less dry and reduces the possibility of inflammation.

Avoiding smoking, air pollution and stimulants is also very important. If you have allergies, controlling them can prevent chronic tonsillitis. Drinking enough water daily is one of the simplest and most effective ways to wash your mouth and reduce irritation.

Conclusion

Pharyngeal tonsils (mainly palatine tonsils or palatine tonsils) are a key part of the body's immune system, located in Waldeyer's ring, and act as the first line of defense against pathogens entering through the mouth and nose. These lymphatic tissues identify and inhibit infections by producing antibodies and immune cells.

The first key point is their role in preventing upper respiratory infections. Second, inflammation of the tonsils (tonsillitis) is often viral or bacterial (such as streptococcus) and is accompanied by sore throat, fever and swelling. Third, supportive treatment (rest, fluids, and pain relievers) is sufficient for viral cases, but bacterial cases require antibiotics. As a next step, if symptoms persist or recur, consult an otolaryngologist for detailed evaluation (including swab testing) and appropriate management. This approach maintains respiratory health.

Your doctor takes care of your health!