Tonsills

Tonsils are two oval-shaped pads of tissue that sit at the back of the throat. They are part of the lymphatic system, which helps the body fight infection. Tonsils are thought to trap germs that enter the throat and can sometimes become infected themselves.

The most common tonsil infection is tonsillitis, which causes inflammation and swelling of the tonsils. Symptoms of tonsillitis can include a sore throat, difficulty swallowing, fever, and swollen lymph nodes in the neck. Tonsillitis is often caused by viral infections, but can also be caused by bacteria.

In some cases, tonsils can become chronically infected or enlarged, leading to breathing or swallowing problems. This may necessitate surgical removal of the tonsils, a procedure known as a tonsillectomy. While tonsils play a role in the immune system, their removal does not typically impair the body's ability to fight infection, as other lymphoid tissues can compensate for their function. Doctors often consider factors such as the frequency and severity of infections, as well as any breathing or swallowing difficulties, when recommending a tonsillectomy.