Talk about Tonsils

When should she have her tonsils out doctor?  I hear this regularly in my office.

Let's start with a description of tonsils.  Tonsils are lymph nodal tissue in the back of the throat.  They contain immune cells are are responsible for immune surveillance in the mouth and throat.  Tonsils in young children may be a big as a large marble but typically shrink down and are not noticeable after 6-10 years of age.

We worry about tonsils when they cause airway obstruction, especially with sleep.  This is evidenced by loud snoring or breath holding during sleep.  We also worry when the child has had 5-6 tonsil infections in one year.  These might be reasons to have tonsils removed.

If you are concerned about your child's tonsils, see your pediatrician.

Kevin M. Windisch MD, FAAP
Sparks Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine
(775) 359-7111
975 Roberta Lane, suite 101 B, Sparks, NV 89431.
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