It usually begins with a sore throat and ends with popsicles. A tonsillectomy is the 2nd most common pediatric procedure and is performed more than 500,000 times a year on kids.
What are tonsils?
- Lumps of tissue on both sides of the throat.
- They trap bacteria and viruses that enter the body through the mouth, nose or throat.
- They produce antibodies that destroy germs and prevent us from getting sick.
- The tonsils can also become overworked, enlarged or infected and eventually need to be removed.
What are the signs tonsils need to be removed?
- Your child has recurring infections especially tonsillitis, strep throat or ear infections about 5-6 times a year.
- Your child has infections that impact attending school.
- Your child has a difficult time eating or swallowing possibly with abscesses in the back of the throat.
- Your child can’t sleep through the night and has increased bedwetting.
- Your child mouth breathes with noticeable mouth odor and their nose feels plugged.
- You notice increased snoring or sleep apnea in your child.
- Though extremely rare, your child may develop bleeding or cancer in the tonsils.
If you notice any of these signs in your kiddo, you should take them to an ear, nose and throat specialist. Summer is a great time to schedule a tonsillectomy so your child does not miss any school during their recovery. Call us today to schedule an appointment for your child with one of our award winning ENT specialists!