Enlarged Tonsils – Causes and Treatment

Tonsils are muscular ball of glandular tissue situated at the back of the throat. They are a part of the immune system of the body which helps to fight bacteria and germs and, helps the body in producing antibodies which prevent us from getting sick.

For most people, enlarged tonsils do not create any problem. However, in some specific cases, inflamed and enlarged tonsils can create severe negative effect. Many people suffer from swollen tonsils due to bacterial infection which leads to tonsillitis and tonsil stones.

Enlarged tonsils are caused by bacterial and viral infection. Tonsil stones are nothing but formation of bacteria and sulfur compound that gather on the rough surface of tonsils and adenoids. Sometimes the formations are quite large and even cause foul smell and irritation. Swollen tonsils can even create serious ailments like difficulty in breathing, blocked airways, repeated throat infection, constant cough, difficulty in swallowing, snoring, and sleep apnea. Excessive use of condiments, spices, toffees, tamarind, and chewing gum also contribute to tonsillitis.

Enlarged tonsils are observed more in children and teenagers than in adults. Swollen tonsils can be without soar throat which is generally caused due to food allergy or air borne allergy. Enlarged tonsils often cause ear infection, ear aches and sinus infection.