Tonsils and adenoids are structures within the lymphatic system, which is a part of the immune system. Tonsils are round masses located on both sides of the throat. The adenoid is located on the upper side of the pharynx, on the back of the nose.
Both tonsils and adenoids capture pathogens such as bacteria and viruses that enter through the mouth and nose. In order to prevent the spread of these pathogens to the body, they produce antibodies with their immune cells.
While the tonsils are easily visible when the mouth is wide open, the adenoids can be seen with a camera or x-ray. In many children, the nasopharynx begins to shrink after the age of 9. It almost completely disappears in adolescence.
What are the signs and symptoms of enlarged tonsils/nasopharynx?
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cessation or pause of breathing during sleep
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Snoring or noisy breathing
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mouth breathing
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Restless sleep, bedwetting, and frequent waking
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difficulty swallowing
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Frequent upper respiratory tract infections
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fluid-induced hearing loss in the middle ear
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Chronic/frequent recurrent sinusitis
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bad breath
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change in voice
How to treat tonsils / adenoids that cause complaints?
Situations where tonsil and adenoid surgery may be necessary
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Recurrent tonsillitis and adenoid inflammation
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Congestion leading to snoring and sleep apnea
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Frequent sinusitis or presence of fluid in the middle ear
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suspected tonsil cancer
Tonsillectomy / adenoidectomy surgery is a daily process. However, in some cases, the physician may request that the child be hospitalized for one day after the operation in order to follow up.
Every surgical procedure has risks. Discuss all the risks of surgery with your doctor during the examination.
In tonsillectomy operations, the general anesthesia risk is 2-3%, as in every operation, 5-10 days after the operation. There may be a risk of bleeding for days. Dehydration, fever and weight loss can be observed due to the lack of fluid intake, especially in children with poor eating and drinking after surgery.
After the operation;
Your throat may appear white – this is normal during the healing process, so don’t be alarmed.
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Moderate or severe sore throat that lasts for a week or two
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Bad breath lasting up to two weeks
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swelling of the tongue and throat
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Foreign body sensation in throat
What can be done for pain control and a pleasant improvement:
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Medicines. Prescription pain relievers can be taken.
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Chewing gum is good for pain.
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Drinks & Food. Sufficient fluid intake is very valuable after surgery to prevent dehydration. Water and ice cream are good options. Soft, non-solid foods that are easy to swallow can be given after surgery. Solid and hot foods should not be used for 1 week. Acidic, spicy and crunchy foods and drinks are undesirable as they can cause pain and bleeding.
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Rest. Bed rest and vigorous activities—such as running and cycling—should be prohibited for 1 week after surgery for the first 3 days after surgery. your child; You can send him to school when he does not need painkillers, sleeps comfortably at night and switches to normal nutrition.
