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Tonsillar Hypertrophy

Tonsil enlargement can cause recurrent throat infections and sleep apnea.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Çocuk Sağlığı ve Hastalıkları department. Book Appointment →

What is Tonsillar Hypertrophy?

Palatine tonsils are lymphoid structures at the posterior corners of the oral cavity. Tonsil hypertrophy commonly seen in preschool and school-age children may develop as a result of physiological growth, recurrent infection, or a combination of both.

Tonsil size is graded 1-4 by the Friedman scale. Grade 3-4 tonsils (covering 50-100% of the oropharynx) are among the most important causes of sleep-related breathing disorders (SRBD).

While recurrent tonsillitis (≥7 attacks/year or ≥5 attacks/2 years) constitutes a surgical indication, in OSAS adenotonsillectomy is the first option regardless of size.

Symptoms

Difficulty swallowing and a feeling of choking when eating
Mouth breathing and snoring
Recurrent sore throat and tonsillitis
Sleep disturbance and apnea at night
Wheezy and hoarse voice
Ear pain when swallowing (referred pain)

Risk Factors

Recurrent group A streptococcal tonsillitis
Viral infections (EBV - infectious mononucleosis)
Gastroesophageal reflux
Allergic rhinitis
Ages 4-7 (peak growth period)
Exposure to cigarette smoke

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • To an ENT doctor with more than 5-7 tonsillitis attacks per year
  • If there is swallowing difficulty or persistent mouth breathing
  • For sleep study in suspected sleep apnea
  • For malignancy investigation if there is unilateral large tonsil (asymmetry)

Treatment Methods

01
Streptococcal tonsillitis: penicillin or amoxicillin for 10 days
02
Adenotonsillectomy: in indications of recurrent tonsillitis and/or OSAS
03
Corticosteroid: to reduce severe obstruction in infectious mononucleosis
04
Allergic rhinitis treatment: concurrent allergy management
05
CPAP: bridge therapy for OSAS in cases with high surgical risk
06
Postoperative follow-up: clinical evaluation at 2-4 weeks

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Çocuk Sağlığı ve Hastalıkları department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Çocuk Sağlığı ve Hastalıkları Department

Let us help you

You can make an appointment with our specialists or contact us for your concerns.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.