Large Tonsils
Tonsillar hypertrophy is a common condition that affects children more than adults.
Large Tonsils
Tonsillar hypertrophy is a common condition that affects children more than adults.
Large Tonsils (Hypertrophy)?
Tonsillar hypertrophy occurs when your child’s or your child’s tonsils become enlarged. Tonsillar hypertrophy is a common condition that affects children more than adults. Depending on the size of the tonsils, surgery may be necessary to remove them. This procedure is known as a tonsillectomy.
Tonsils refer to the glands at the back of your throat. They help keep bacteria from your throat and esophagus. They protect you against viral and bacterial infections. They can cause swelling, which can be dangerous to your health.
Symptoms of Large Tonsils
Tonsillar hypertrophy typically manifests as enlarged, swollen tonsils. Many other signs and symptoms can be associated with this condition. These signs will help you determine if your child is suffering from this condition. These are the symptoms:
- Fever
- Trouble swallowing
- Swollen lymph nodes around the neck
Tonsillar hypertrophy can be challenging to spot in small children. It is easier to detect in children who are asleep. These are signs to watch out for:
- Breathing in the mouth
- Noisy breathing
- Loud snoring
- Inability to fall asleep well
- Night terrors
- Excessive sleepiness
- After potty training, bedwetting
- Behavior change
The following symptoms may also be present in children who have enlarged tonsils or adenoid issues:
- Sore throat
- Trouble swallowing
- Infection of the inner ear
- Bright red tonsils
- Bad breath
- Tonsils can be covered with a yellow or white film
- In some cases, fever can be a sign of infection.
Causes of Large Tonsils
Tonsillar hypertrophy is not a known cause. Some doctors believe that secondhand smoke or air pollution can cause tonsil hypertrophy.
The adenovirus, influenza, and herpes simplex viruses could cause tonsillar hypertrophy. Another cause could be bacterial infections, including Neisseriagonorrhoeae, mycoplasma, and Haemophilus influenza Type B. Fungal and parasitic infections can also cause enlarged tonsils. They are, however, less common.
