Tonsils-Adenoids are parts of the lymphatic tissues that protect the body from infections by stopping the germs which enter the body through the lungs. Occasionally, the tonsils and adenoids become infected by microorganisms, this leads to nasal obstructions, a sore throat, snoring at night and other critical conditions.

Where to locate tonsils-adenoids in our body

Tonsils are found behind the throat, while the adenoids are behind the nose.They prevent microbial infestation of our body through the lungs.

Diseases that affect tonsils and adenoids

The most common types of disease which affect the tonsils and adenoids are frequent microbial infections of the throat and nose. This leads to the swelling and obstruction of the airways and the eustachian tube that connects the throat to the ear. this result in breathing difficulty, swallowing and sleeping problems.

Symptoms of enlarged tonsils and adenoids

Tonsillitis: This is an infection of the tonsils. The symptoms of enlarged tonsils includes

• Bad breath
• Sore throat
• Nosebleed
• Redder than normal tonsils
• Cough
• Headache
• High temperature
• Enlarged neck gland.

Symptoms of enlarged adenoids

They include the following

• Snoring at night
• A constant runny nose
• Restlessness sleep
• Cracked lips
• Blockage of the eustachian tube.

How tonsils and adenoids can be diagnosed in the lab.

• Nasopharygoscopy: This is a flexible viewing tube used by doctors to check the redness of tonsils, lymph nodes enlargement and the behaviour of tonsils on breathing.
• Polysomnography: This method is used to examine a child during sleeping to know if he/she experiences restlessness during sleeping.
• X-ray

tonsils-adenoids treatment

• The treatment of the sickness depends on the causing organisms. If the symptoms are mild, there may be no need for treatment or he can only use antibiotics if prescribed by a medical doctor.
• Adenoidectomy: This is the process of removing adenoids through surgery. This can only be possible if

1. The swollen adenoids obstruct the airways.
2. If he/she usually have frequent adenoids infections
3. When antibiotics can no longer clear the infections.
4. When he/she has frequent ear infections.

• Tonsillectomy: This is the removal of tonsils through an operation. It is done simultaneously with adenoidectomy.