Tonsilitis

Plains ENT offers treatment of the throat in Fargo, Carrington and surrounding areas in eastern North Dakota and Northwestern Minnesota.

Tonsils and Adenoids

Tonsils and adenoids are masses of tissue found in the back sides of the throat, and are near the breathing passages, where they can catch incoming germs that can cause infections.

Your tonsils are seen as a filter, but sometimes they themselves become infected. When they swell and are inflamed, it is known as tonsillitis. This is a condition that is very common in children.

Symptoms of Tonsillitis

  • Swollen tonsils
  • White or yellowish coating
  • Deeper red color
  • Voice change due to swelling
  • Painful swallowing
  • Swollen lymph node (glands) in neck
  • Fever
  • Bad breath

Enlarged adenoids, or adenoiditis, can be painful and make breathing difficult. This is another disease that is common with children but adults can have it as well.

Symptoms of Enlarged Adenoids

  • Often breathing through mouth instead of nose
  • Reoccurring sinus infections or ear infections
  • Noisy daytime breathing
  • Snoring
  • Sleep apnea

There are a couple different ways to treat problems with tonsils and adenoids.

Tonsil and Adenoid Treatment

  • Antibiotics
  • Tonsillectomy
  • Adenoidectomy