Tonsil hypertrophy, enlarged third tonsil – causes, symptoms, treatment

Tonsils in the mouth – types and functions

Tonsils, also known as tonsils, are small lumps of lymphatic tissue located at the back of the throat in the mouth.

They are part of the lymphatic system and play an important role in defending the body against infections. There are two main types of tonsils: the palatine tonsils (i.e. the palatine tonsils and the pharyngeal tonsils) and a third tonsil which is called the pharyngeal tonsil or lingual tonsil.

Third almond – what is it?

The third tonsil, also known as the adenoid or lingual tonsil, is a small lump of lymphatic tissue located near the base of the tongue, at the back of the throat. Although it is not as well known as the palatine tonsils, it is important for the lymphatic system and the body’s immunity. The third tonsil plays a role in defense against infections and helps in the process of recognizing and fighting pathogens.

Tonsil hypertrophy – causes and symptoms

Tonsillar hypertrophy, also called tonsillar hypertrophy, is a disproportionate growth of the tonsils compared to normal. It is usually the result of repeated upper respiratory tract infections, especially in children. Tonsillar hypertrophy can lead to a variety of symptoms, including:

• Difficulty swallowing
• Sneezing
• Snore
• Problems breathing through the nose
• Sore throat
• Throat and tonsil infections

Tonsillar hypertrophy may also be associated with reduced immunity and more frequent infections in children.

Tonsillar hypertrophy – treatment. Which doctor should you see?

If you suspect that you have enlarged tonsils or your child has problems related to this condition, you should consult your family doctor or otolaryngologist (ENT). Your doctor may carefully examine your throat and tonsils and order necessary tests, such as blood tests and X-rays, to confirm the diagnosis. Treatment for tonsillar hyperplasia may include both conservative therapy and surgical intervention, depending on the severity of symptoms.

When to remove the third tonsil?

Removal of the third tonsil, i.e. the adenoid, may be necessary if it is enlarged, which may lead to difficulty swallowing, snoring, breathing problems or recurrent infections. The decision to remove the adenoid depends on the patient’s individual situation and should always be discussed with a specialist.

Your suggestions

If you suspect that you may have enlarged tonsils or a third tonsil, consult your doctor immediately. Regular check-ups with a specialist can help detect problems early and take appropriate action. Also remember to take care of your mouth and throat hygiene and maintain a healthy lifestyle, which supports the immune system.

Recommended articles

If you are interested in the topic of oral and throat health, we recommend checking out our other articles on oral hygiene, throat diseases and general respiratory health. Our website contains a lot of useful information on this topic that can help you take care of your health.