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What Are Tonsils and What Do They Do?

As kids, most of us have experienced the often unpleasant procedure of having our tonsils removed, but what exactly are tonsils, and what purpose do they serve? Tonsils are actually a pair of lymph glands located at the back of the throat that are part of the immune system. They help trap germs and other foreign particles that may have been ingested and help defend the body against infection.

Understanding Tonsil Anatomy

The pair of tonsils are located at the back of the throat and are also referred to as palatine tonsils. There are two other tonsils located in the back of the mouth, including the adenoids (which is located behind the nose) and the lingual tonsils (which is located at the back of the tongue). All of the tonsils are a part of the body’s immune system and act as a barrier to help protect from infection.

The palatine tonsils are a pair of oval-shaped glands that line either side of the throat. They’re made up of a connective tissue capsule that contains lymphoid tissue, which produces white blood cells. These cells help the body target and fight off bacteria and other types of foreign particles.

The Role of Tonsils in Our Immune System

Tonsils play an essential role in helping to defend the body against infection. They act like a guard of the body against viruses and other germs entering through the nose and mouth, as they’re part of the first line of defence.

Tonsils act primarily as a filter and they are designed to catch bacteria, fungi and other foreign particles that have been breathed in or ingested. When the tonsils trap the particles, they engulf and attack the foreign organisms by releasing white blood cells. This process helps to fight off infection before it reaches the lungs and other parts of the body.

Tonsillitis and Tonsil Removal

Tonsillitis develops when the tonsils become inflamed, usually due to infection or viruses. Common symptoms of tonsillitis include sore throat, difficulty swallowing, fever, and swollen lymph glands in the neck.

In more severe cases, tonsillitis may be treated with antibiotics, while in some cases, the tonsils may need to be surgically removed. This procedure is known as a tonsillectomy and is usually recommended if a person has repeated episodes of tonsillitis that don’t respond to antibiotics.

Risks and Benefits of Tonsil Removal

Tonsillectomies are relatively safe procedures, but like any other surgery, there are some risks. These include excessive bleeding and negative reactions to the anaesthesia used during the surgery. If a tonsillectomy is recommended, it’s important to discuss the risks and benefits with a doctor to determine the best course of action.

One of the major benefits of a tonsillectomy is that it helps to reduce the frequency and duration of tonsillitis and other upper respiratory infections. It can also help improve breathing, as enlarged tonsils can sometimes narrow the airway.

Conclusion

The tonsils are a pair of lymphoid glands located at the back of the throat that provide an important function in the body’s immune system by acting as a filter to help trap germs and other foreign particles. Tonsillitis, which is an inflammation of the tonsils, is usually treated with antibiotics, but in some cases, a tonsillectomy may be needed. Despite the risks, a tonsillectomy can provide major benefits, including reducing the frequency and duration of tonsillitis and improving breathing.