Enlarged Tonsils: Causes and Symptoms Explained

Q: Enlarged Tonsils: Causes and Symptoms Explained

Hello： The persistent sensation of a foreign body in the throat is often associated with chronic pharyngitis or chronic tonsillitis. <br>If the symptoms continue without improvement, it is advisable to return for further medical evaluation. <br>If there are concerns, the physicia

Enlarged tonsils may not always be painful?

Hello doctor, I have been experiencing a sensation of something stuck in my throat for the past year.
I have seen doctors and felt better for a few months, but then the sensation returns.
It often occurs on the left side of my throat, while the right side generally feels like there is something there.
Sometimes, there is no sensation at all.
Initially, my right throat was swollen and painful, radiating to my ear, so I went to see a doctor.
The doctor said my lymph nodes were enlarged but not painful upon palpation, prescribed medication, and recommended that I go to a larger hospital for treatment.
The following night, my right throat was still swollen, but I began to feel an itch in my throat.
On the third day, I visited the hospital again, and the doctor diagnosed me with tonsillitis.
After that, my left throat also started to feel swollen.
Currently, I have a painful and itchy sensation on the left side (occasionally swollen), while the right side remains consistently swollen (with occasional pain and itchiness).
Could there be something wrong?

Yuyu, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/09/24

Dr. Zheng Jueyi reply Otolaryngology

Hello: The persistent sensation of a foreign body in the throat is often associated with chronic pharyngitis or chronic tonsillitis.
If the symptoms continue without improvement, it is advisable to return for further medical evaluation.
If there are concerns, the physician may consider a biopsy.
Wishing you safety and health.
Sincerely, Dr.
Jue-Yi Cheng, Director of the Department of Otolaryngology, Taoyuan Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2020/09/24

More Info

Enlarged tonsils, or tonsillitis, can be a recurring issue for many individuals, particularly in cases where there is a history of throat discomfort and swelling. Your symptoms suggest that you may be experiencing chronic tonsillitis or recurrent episodes of acute tonsillitis, which can lead to persistent enlargement of the tonsils.

Causes of Enlarged Tonsils
1. Infections: The most common cause of enlarged tonsils is infection, which can be viral or bacterial. Viral infections include those caused by the common cold, influenza, or Epstein-Barr virus (which causes mononucleosis). Bacterial infections, particularly those caused by Streptococcus bacteria (strep throat), can also lead to significant swelling and pain.

2. Chronic Inflammation: If you have recurrent infections, the tonsils can become chronically inflamed, leading to persistent enlargement. This can be exacerbated by environmental factors such as allergies or irritants like smoke.

3. Allergies: Allergic reactions can cause inflammation in the throat and tonsils, leading to a sensation of swelling or discomfort.

4. Other Conditions: Conditions such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) can lead to throat irritation and tonsil enlargement.

Symptoms of Enlarged Tonsils
The symptoms you are experiencing align with common manifestations of enlarged tonsils:
- Sore Throat: Pain or discomfort in the throat, which can radiate to the ears, is a typical symptom. This pain may be more pronounced on one side, as you described with your right tonsil.

- Difficulty Swallowing: Enlarged tonsils can obstruct the throat, making swallowing painful or difficult.

- Feeling of a Lump: Many individuals report a sensation of having something stuck in their throat, which can be distressing.

- Fever and Swollen Lymph Nodes: Accompanying symptoms may include fever and swollen lymph nodes in the neck, indicating an active infection.

- Bad Breath: Chronic tonsillitis can lead to halitosis due to the accumulation of bacteria and debris in the tonsils.

Diagnosis and Treatment
Given your symptoms and the history of recurrent throat issues, it is essential to consult with an ENT (ear, nose, and throat) specialist. They may perform a thorough examination, including:
- Physical Examination: A visual inspection of the throat and tonsils, along with palpation of the neck to assess lymph node enlargement.

- Throat Culture: A swab of the throat may be taken to identify any bacterial infections, particularly strep throat.

- Imaging: In some cases, imaging studies may be necessary to assess the size of the tonsils and any potential complications.

Treatment Options
1. Medications: If a bacterial infection is confirmed, antibiotics will be prescribed. For viral infections, supportive care such as pain relievers and throat lozenges may be recommended.

2. Home Remedies: Gargling with warm salt water, staying hydrated, and using humidifiers can help soothe throat discomfort.

3. Surgery: In cases of chronic tonsillitis or significant enlargement leading to obstructive sleep apnea or difficulty swallowing, a tonsillectomy (surgical removal of the tonsils) may be considered.

Conclusion
Your symptoms of recurrent throat discomfort, swelling, and pain suggest that you may be dealing with chronic tonsillitis or another underlying condition affecting your tonsils. It is crucial to seek further evaluation from a healthcare professional to determine the exact cause and appropriate treatment. Maintaining good hydration, practicing good oral hygiene, and avoiding irritants can also help manage your symptoms in the meantime.

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Hello: It is recommended to seek medical evaluation to determine if there are any issues or if a biopsy is necessary. Wishing you safety and health. Sincerely, Dr. Cheng Jue-Yi, Director of the Department of Otolaryngology, Taoyuan Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

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