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Is Surgical Removal Of Large Tonsils Advisable?
Question: My tonsils have always been very large, now they trap old food because they have like craters.. I've never had strep or anything but I always always always have had bad breath. Sometimes they hurt from food getting stuck in them. What would be a suggestion for me? I've been thinking if having them removed.
Brief Answer:
dont get them removed
Detailed Answer:
Hi and welcome to healthcaremagic,
It is normal for tonsils to have pits and craters. Also tonsils can vary in size from very small to quite large. Large tonsils need not be diseased, they can be perfectly normal.
I do not think that getting them removed because food is getting stuck in them is a good idea. Removal of tonsils is done under general anaesthesia and is associated with some morbidity and also there is a small risk of anaesthesia as well.
Please try alternatives before you consider surgery., Do warm salt water gargling 5 times daily for 30 seconds every time. This will help to dislodge any food particles stuck in the tonsils. Gargling immediately after eating will control the problem to a large extent. Make gargling a part of your everyday routine like brushing and bathing.
Surgery should be your last option.
If you do consider surgery then weigh the risks and benefits carefully.
Regards,
Dr Rajkishori Godhi MS ENT
dont get them removed
Detailed Answer:
Hi and welcome to healthcaremagic,
It is normal for tonsils to have pits and craters. Also tonsils can vary in size from very small to quite large. Large tonsils need not be diseased, they can be perfectly normal.
I do not think that getting them removed because food is getting stuck in them is a good idea. Removal of tonsils is done under general anaesthesia and is associated with some morbidity and also there is a small risk of anaesthesia as well.
Please try alternatives before you consider surgery., Do warm salt water gargling 5 times daily for 30 seconds every time. This will help to dislodge any food particles stuck in the tonsils. Gargling immediately after eating will control the problem to a large extent. Make gargling a part of your everyday routine like brushing and bathing.
Surgery should be your last option.
If you do consider surgery then weigh the risks and benefits carefully.
Regards,
Dr Rajkishori Godhi MS ENT
Note: Consult an experienced Otolaryngologist / ENT Specialist online for further follow up on ear, nose, and throat issues - Book a Call now.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Shanthi.E
Answered by
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