When do i need my tonsils removed

Close X. Back to Living Better Living Better newsletter. Zip Code. When should your tonsils be removed? There are two main reasons it may be time to undergo a tonsillectomy removal of the tonsils : You have chronic sleep apnea or snoring that disrupts your sleep.

What are the symptoms of tonsillitis? How can enlarged tonsils be harmful? Can adults benefit from tonsillectomy? Related Stories. The procedure itself is no different for adults than for children, but adults typically experience more discomfort after the surgery. Generally, patients need to miss work or school for at least two weeks, and they are not back to normal for about a month.

This isn't something to be taken lightly. Lintzenich added that over-the-counter pain medications and avoiding acidic foods could help ease the pain after a tonsillectomy , but "mostly it just takes time.

By subscribing you agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. Health Topics. Health Tools. Reviewed: February 6, Medically Reviewed. Karrie Aitken's Story. Long-term sleep apnea could lead to fatigue, restlessness, and even high blood pressure. If a doctor suspects the swollen tonsils can affect sleep and overall health, a tonsillectomy may help.

Certain viruses, like human papillomavirus HPV , can leave masses on the tonsils that may be cancerous. These masses can lead to similar symptoms related to tonsil infections. A biopsy helps to rule out the possibility of the throat or other cancers. For a doctor to complete the biopsy, a tonsillectomy happens first.

Adult tonsillectomies are similar to the procedure thousands of children have every year. The surgeon will perform the procedure under general anesthesia.

While the patient is asleep, the surgeon uses a small scalpel to remove the tonsils and sometimes the adenoids. The doctor will then monitor the patient for any complications. If you have a special stuffed animal or blanket, bring it. It's nice to have something that reminds you of home when you're in the hospital. You'll probably go to the hospital on the day of your surgery.

You'll check in and get a plastic bracelet that has your name on it. Then, you'll meet the nurses and other hospital staff who will take care of you. Your mom and dad can stay with you. Tonsils are removed in the operating room , so you'll have to take a ride on a gurney. A gurney is like a bed on wheels. When it's time for your operation, you'll get a medicine called anesthesia that will help you fall asleep and keep you from feeling any pain during the operation.

During the surgery, which takes only about 20 minutes, doctors will open your mouth and remove the tonsils. Hooray for anesthesia because you won't feel anything during the operation. Before you know it, you'll wake up in the recovery room. You may feel sleepy and dizzy at first.