Treatment of Tonsillar Hypertrophy

About the disease

Tonsillar hypertrophy describes enlargement of the tonsils, usually due to either a chronic illness or an infection. Sometimes, people are born with tonsillar hypertrophy. Although this is rarely a dangerous condition, it can cause soreness in the throat and lead to problems with swallowing. The tonsils are located at the back of the throat, on both sides. They are made of lymphoid tissue and serve to protect the throat, preventing bacteria and viruses from entering the body orally. Adenoids have a similar role in the nasal cavity.

Frequently occurring in children and the elderly, tonsillar hypertrophy can also develop in people with a weak immune system. The most common cause of tonsillar hypertrophy is an infection of the tonsils, such as tonsillitis. Streptococcus bacteria and the Epstein-Barr virus can also cause tonsillar hypertrophy.

Various environmental factors can also lead to tonsillar hypertrophy. For instance, smoking (including secondary) and air pollution can reduce the tonsils’ resilience against infections, leaving the individual vulnerable to developing tonsillar hypertrophy. People are more at risk of developing tonsillar hypertrophy during the colder seasons, especially if they have already suffered from an infection of the upper respiratory tract.

Symptoms

• Difficulty swallowing
• Sore throat
• Loss of appetite
• Weight loss
• Voice changes
• Foul smelling breath
• Snoring

Diagnosis

• During a general examination, the doctor will examine the patient’s tonsils, to determine if they are swollen and red. (Doctors are usually able to diagnose tonsillar hypertrophy simply by looking at the tonsils.)
• The doctor will ask the patient about previous infections and viruses they have had.
• The patient will also be asked if they suffer from any conditions that could cause their immune system to be undermined, making their tonsils more susceptible to infection.
• A blood test can determine the exact type of bacteria that caused the tonsillar hypertrophy.
• Imaging tests may also be performed, if an infection of the sinuses or lungs is suspected. An X-ray is usually enough for a definitive diagnosis.

Treatment

• Conservative treatment mostly involves the use of antibiotics to kill the bacteria, alleviate the symptoms and ensure a swift recovery.
• The patient may also be advised to do a steam inhalation regularly, to reduce the swelling and throat pain.
• A tonsillectomy is a surgical procedure whereby the tonsils are removed. It is recommended only in severe cases, if conservative treatment has not helped or if tonsillar hypertrophy has become a chronic condition.

Authors: Dr. Nadezhda Ivanisova, Dr. Farrukh Ahmed