What happens to your tonsils when you get older?

Under normal circumstances, the tonsils grow during the pre-teen years. Then, starting about the age of 12 or so, they begin to shrink. The reasons for this are not completely understood but, by adulthood, most people’s tonsils are relatively small.

Can adults have tonsil problems?

Tonsillitis is more common in children, but adults can also develop the condition. If you develop tonsillitis, a viral infection is the most likely culprit, but it could also be caused by a bacterial infection. Many cases of tonsillitis will get better on their own, usually within a week.

What are signs of tonsil problems?

Common signs and symptoms of tonsillitis include:

  • Red, swollen tonsils.
  • White or yellow coating or patches on the tonsils.
  • Sore throat.
  • Difficult or painful swallowing.
  • Fever.
  • Enlarged, tender glands (lymph nodes) in the neck.
  • A scratchy, muffled or throaty voice.
  • Bad breath.

How do you know if you need your tonsils removed in adults?

Look for constant throat infections. The result is swelling, inflammation, soreness, and pain. Most infections go away with antibiotics and similar medications. For some adults, tonsilitis can become chronic. If the infection happens 5 or more times a year, the doctor will propose removing the tonsils.

What does tonsillitis feel like in adults?

Tonsillitis can feel like a bad cold or flu. The tonsils at the back of your throat will be red and swollen. The main symptoms in children and adults are: a sore throat.

What causes enlarged tonsils in adults?

The most common reason for enlarged tonsils in adults are: Tonsillitis. Abscesses around tonsils. Cancer of the tonsils (very uncommon) Recurrent nose or throat infections.

How painful is tonsil removal for adults?

Your doctor did the surgery through your mouth. Most adults have a lot of throat pain for 1 to 2 weeks or longer. The pain may get worse before it gets better. The pain in your throat can also make your ears hurt.

How long does it take to recover from tonsil removal for adults?

A tonsillectomy may also be necessary to treat breathing and other problems related to enlarged tonsils and to treat rare diseases of the tonsils. Recovery time for a tonsillectomy is usually at least 10 days to two weeks.

What are symptoms of enlarged tonsils?

Sore throat

  • Trouble swallowing
  • Inner ear infection
  • Bright red tonsils
  • Bad breath
  • White or yellow film on tonsils
  • Fever in some cases with infection

    • What to do for inflamed tonsils?

    getting lots of rest

  • drinking fluids,such as water or diluted juice,at room temperature
  • drinking warm tea with honey or other warm liquids,such as clear chicken soup or broth
  • using a warm saltwater gargle three to five times every day
  • humidifying the air with a humidifier or boiling pots of water
  • using lozenges,ice pops,or throat spray

    • Are swollen tonsils dangerous?

    Swollen tonsils are a common cause of obstructive sleep apnea. Sleep apnea is a serious condition that has been associated with other serious health risks and symptoms including: 6. Sleep apnea occurs in approximately 1% to 4% of children. 7 The recommended treatment is surgical removal of the tonsils and adenoids.

    What causes swollen tonsil on one side?

    – Disrupted breathing during sleep (obstructive sleep apnea) – Infection that spreads deep into surrounding tissue (tonsillar cellulitis) – Infection that results in a collection of pus behind a tonsil (peritonsillar abscess)