Tonsils and adenoids are part of the immune system and help protect your child’s body from disease. The tonsils are located at the back of the throat, while the adenoids are located behind the nose.
Tonsils and adenoids sample bacteria and viruses that enter through the mouth or nose. However, sometimes, they can become infected, inflamed, or enlarged. At Kimball Health Services, our team, led by board-certified ENT surgeon Dr. William O. Dickey, provides expert care for issues related to the tonsils and adenoids.Â
Our comprehensive approach to tonsil and adenoid care for children includes detailed evaluations, advanced diagnosis, personalized treatment plans, and supportive care. Our team ensures that you and your child are well-informed and comfortable throughout the treatment process.
The tonsils are two rounded, fleshy masses located at the back of your throat (pharynx). As part of your immune system, they help filter out germs that enter through the nose or mouth, thereby protecting your body from infections.Â
The two tonsils are called palatine or faucial tonsils and are packed with white blood cells to help destroy harmful germs that you might breathe in or swallow. Tonsil size can vary greatly from person to person.
On the other hand, adenoids are glands located behind the nasal cavity and help protect against germs that enter through the nose. They are especially important for babies and young children, helping to combat infections until their immune system matures.
Adenoids typically reach their largest size between ages 3 and 5. By around age 7 or 8, they begin to shrink, and by adulthood, they are usually no longer present. The average size of a normal (non-enlarged) adenoid is about 6.2 millimeters, whereas an enlarged adenoid measures approximately 11.6 millimeters.
Tonsillitis is a common condition in children characterized by inflammation of the tonsils. It can occur as a one-time episode or recur multiple times within a short period in your child.
There are three primary types of tonsillitis:
Common symptoms of tonsillitis include:
Tonsillitis can be caused by both bacterial and viral infections. Identifying the correct cause is crucial to provide the appropriate treatment.
The viruses and bacteria responsible for tonsillitis are highly contagious. They can spread through various means, including:
To check for tonsillitis in your child, our primary care providers or Dr. Dickey performs a thorough physical examination. It may include checking your child's throat, feeling neck for swollen glands, and listening to breathing. He may order additional tests like complete blood cell count (CBC) to find the cause of tonsillitis or throat swab to check for bacteria.Â
Treatment for tonsillitis varies depending on the cause. Viral tonsillitis is typically managed with supportive care, such as fluids, pain relievers, and rest, while bacterial tonsillitis requires antibiotics to clear the infection.
In recurrent or severe cases of tonsillitis, surgical removal of the tonsils, known as a tonsillectomy, may be considered. It may also be considered if tonsillitis leads to severe complications such as difficulty breathing and swallowing, especially solid foods.Â
This decision is usually made based on the frequency of infections and the impact on the child's overall health and quality of life. Typically performed as an outpatient procedure, a tonsillectomy allows your child to return home the same day.Â
However, if your child is very young, has a complex medical condition, or if complications arise, an overnight stay may be required. Full recovery generally takes between seven to fourteen days.
Adenoiditis is the inflammation and enlargement of the adenoids that can make breathing difficult and lead to recurrent respiratory infections.
Although adenoids play a crucial role in filtering out germs from the body, they can sometimes become overwhelmed by viruses or bacteria, leading to infection. When this occurs, the adenoids can become inflamed and swollen. It is more common in children but can sometimes affect adults.
Symptoms of adenoiditis include:
Adenoiditis can be caused by both viral and bacterial infections. Common culprits include:
To diagnose adenoiditis, along with physical examination of the throat and nasal passages, Dr. Dickey may order X-rays or other imaging studies to assess the size of the adenoids and associated complications. He may also perform nasal endoscopy, which involves inserting a flexible tube with a light and a camera into your child’s nose to look at the adenoids directly.Â
Treatment for adenoiditis depends on the underlying cause and severity. Dr. Dickey prescribes antibiotics if a bacterial infection is present. We may also prescribe medications to reduce pain and fever.Â
If adenoids are enlarged because of allergies, then he may prescribe antihistamines. We also recommend saline nasal sprays to reduce inflammation and salt water gargles to soothe the throat.
In cases where adenoiditis is chronic or severe, and other non-surgical treatments have been ineffective, surgical removal of the adenoids, called adenoidectomy, may be considered.
The surgery is typically performed as an outpatient procedure, meaning the child can usually go home the same day. However, if there are complications or if the child is very young, an overnight stay may be required. Most children recover within one to two weeks.
At Kimball Health Services, our team provides comprehensive and supportive pediatric care for inflamed and enlarged tonsils and adenoids.Â
As one of the top critical access hospitals in the nation, we pride ourselves on delivering high-quality, patient-centered care.Â
In case of an emergency, call 911 or walk into our emergency department anytime. For appointments, call us at 308-235-1966 or request an appointment online. We're here for you whenever you need us.
