Do adults also need tonsil removal or is it for children only?

Removal of the tonsils also called tonsillectomy is generally considered for children but that does not mean it is not at all required in adults. Adults can also have certain problems with their tonsils that needs surgery. Here are some situations where an adult may require a tonsillectomy:

1. Adults suffering from recurrent bouts of tonsil infection, which mainly presents as sore throats, pain on swallowing, fever, and swollen lymph nodes in the neck. If these infections happens more than 5 times in a year then one may need a tonsillectomy.

2. Enlarged tonsils may cause obstruction in breathing and choking during sleep, leading to obstructive sleep apnoea. This can cause daytime sleepiness and fatigue, cardiovascular problems, and other health problems. Removing the tonsils can help with reduction in symptoms and improve the quality of life.

3. Infection of the peritonsillar space leading to pus collection near the tonsils. This is called peritonsillar abscess and It causes severe pain, difficulty swallowing, and sometimes difficulty in breathing. In this situation tonsils are removed once the infection settles to prevent further episodes.

4. Tonsil Stones or tonsilolith, a situation where there is accumulation of calcified debris in the crypts of the tonsils. This generally causes bad breath and sore throat. Recurrent tonsil stones may require tonsillectomy.

5. if there is a suspicion of growths on the tonsils, a biopsy or removal of the tonsils may be necessary for diagnosis and treatment.