Children's ENT
Tonsils and adenoids
Tonsils sit at the sides of the throat; adenoids sit behind the nose. Both help the body recognise infections. They sometimes cause repeated illness or breathing problems, particularly in children.
ENT care in Bandra, MumbaiAbout Dr Adip Shetty
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What symptoms should be checked?
Tonsillitis can cause fever and painful swallowing. Enlarged adenoids may block nasal breathing or contribute to glue ear. Snoring with pauses or restless sleep should be assessed.
What to bring to the appointment
A record of throat infections, missed school or work, medicines and sleep symptoms is useful. The doctor examines the throat and nose. Hearing tests or a sleep assessment may be needed. Adenoids cannot usually be seen simply by looking into the mouth.
Treatment options
A short illness often needs fluids, suitable pain relief and time. Antibiotics are used when a bacterial infection is likely to benefit from them. Surgery may be discussed for frequent, disruptive tonsillitis or obstruction affecting sleep. Some children improve as they grow.
When to get urgent help
Difficulty breathing, inability to swallow saliva, drooling or rapidly worsening throat swelling needs emergency care. Severe one-sided pain with difficulty opening the mouth may be an abscess and needs urgent assessment.
A note on your care
“Parents often notice changes in sleep, eating or hearing before a child can explain them. Bring those observations — and your questions — so we can look at the whole picture.”
A little more clarity
Common questions
Do large tonsils always need removal?
No. Large tonsils that do not cause important symptoms may not need treatment.
Are tonsils and adenoids removed together?
Sometimes, especially for breathing problems during sleep. They can also be treated separately when only one is causing trouble.
Does every episode of tonsillitis need antibiotics?
No. Many episodes are viral. The clinician weighs the symptoms and examination before deciding whether antibiotics are useful.
What should I record before discussing surgery?
Note the dates of infections, fever, treatments, missed school or work and any sleep breathing problems. This helps judge their impact.
Sources and review
Updated . General information to help you prepare for a consultation.
Clinically reviewed by Dr Adip Shetty on .