In this Article

• What are the tonsils and adenoids?
• What is the purpose of the tonsils and adenoids?
• What are common problems affecting the tonsils and adenoids?
• How is tonsillitis and adenoid infection treated?
• When should the tonsils and/or adenoids be removed?
• Tonsillitis and Adenoids Infection At A Glance
• Adenoids and Tonsils Glossary
• Adenoids and Tonsils Index

Tonsillitis and Adenoid Infection At A Glance

• Tonsils and adenoids are composed of tissues that are similar to the lymph nodes or glands.
  
  
• Acute tonsillitis is an infection of the tonsils caused by one of several possible types of bacteria or viruses.
  
  
• Chronic tonsillitis is a persistent infection of the tonsils and can cause tiny stone formation.
  
  
• Peritonsillar abscess is a collection of pus behind the tonsils.
  
  
• Obstruction to breathing by enlarged tonsils and adenoids may cause snoring and disturbed sleep patterns.
  
  
• Bacterial infections of the tonsils and adenoids are treated with appropriate antibiotics. Viral infections are not.
  
  
• Tonsillectomy and adenoidectomy are indicated as follows: (1) in persons with repeated or persistent infections; (2) when serious complications of infection occur; and (3) when enlargement of the tonsils and adenoids causes breathing, swallowing, or dental problems.

Tonsillitis - Effective Treatments

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Suggested Reading by Our Doctors

• cefdinir, Omnicef - Explains the medication cefdinir (Omnicef), a drug used to treat infections such as middle ear, tonsillitis, strep throat, bronchitis, pneumonia, and skin and soft tissue.
• Tonsillectomy - Learn about the tonsillectomy or adenoidectomy surgery. Information on what to expect prior to surgery, during surgery, and recovery time from surgery.
• Sore Throat (Pharyngitis) - Learn more about sore throats, including causes, at-home treatments, differences from strep throat, reasons to seek medical care, and what it means to have multiple episodes of strep throat.

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