Enlarged Tonsils After Inflammation: What You Need to Know

Tonsil problems

Hello Doctor: Last week I had tonsillitis, but this week I have recovered.
My throat is no longer swollen, painful, or red.
However, it seems that my right tonsil is slightly larger than the left one.
I would like to know if there is still inflammation present.
Previously, I had tonsil stones on the right side, and it seems that they have fallen out in the past few days, and I no longer feel any foreign body sensation.
Could the right tonsil be enlarged due to not being completely cleared?

J, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/04/29

Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology

Hello, it is normal for the size of the tonsils on both sides to vary slightly.
If there is no significant pain or discomfort, you can monitor the situation yourself.
If you are concerned, you may visit an otolaryngology clinic for further evaluation.
Wishing you peace and good health.
Sincerely, Dr.
Cheng Jue-Yi, Director of the Department of Otolaryngology, Taoyuan Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2020/04/29

More Info

Enlarged tonsils after inflammation can be a common concern, especially following an episode of tonsillitis. In your case, it seems that you have recently recovered from tonsillitis, but you are noticing that your right tonsil appears larger than the left. This situation can be attributed to several factors, and it’s important to understand the underlying mechanisms involved.

Firstly, after an episode of inflammation, it is not unusual for the tonsils to remain slightly enlarged for a period of time. The tonsils are part of the immune system and play a role in fighting infections. When they become inflamed due to an infection, they can swell as they work to trap and eliminate pathogens. Even after the acute phase of the infection has resolved, residual swelling may persist as the tissue heals. This can lead to a temporary asymmetry, where one tonsil appears larger than the other.

In your case, you mentioned that you previously had tonsil stones (tonsilloliths) on the right side. Tonsil stones can cause irritation and inflammation, and their presence can contribute to the enlargement of the tonsil. If the stones have recently dislodged, it is possible that the right tonsil is still in the process of healing from the irritation caused by the stones. The body may take some time to fully resolve the inflammation and return to its baseline state.

It is also worth noting that if the right tonsil remains enlarged for an extended period, or if you experience any new symptoms such as pain, difficulty swallowing, or persistent swelling, it would be prudent to consult with a healthcare professional. They may perform a physical examination and, if necessary, imaging studies to rule out any underlying issues, such as chronic infection or other conditions.

In terms of management, if the enlargement is due to residual inflammation, supportive care such as hydration, warm saltwater gargles, and over-the-counter pain relievers can be beneficial. These measures can help soothe the throat and promote healing. Additionally, maintaining good oral hygiene can help prevent the formation of tonsil stones in the future, which may reduce the risk of recurrent inflammation.

In conclusion, while it is common for one tonsil to appear larger than the other after an episode of inflammation, especially following the presence of tonsil stones, it is essential to monitor the situation. If the enlargement persists or is accompanied by concerning symptoms, seeking medical advice is recommended. Your healthcare provider can offer tailored recommendations based on your specific situation and history.

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