Expert When do the almonds really have to get out?

These are the signs when almonds really need to be removed
Sudden fever, shortness of breath and pain in the throat when swallowing or opening the mouth, which radiate to the ears, indicate an acute tonsillitis. Of the chronic form, so if inflammations occur several times a year, especially children and adolescents are affected. The most common clinical picture in ENT medicine is the question of whether surgery or conservative treatment should be given.

A new treatment guideline recommends surgery for six tonsillitis a year. Depending on the individual circumstances, however, an operation may be indicated even with less inflammation per year.

Dysphagia and sore throat are key symptoms in tonsillitis. Picture: SENTELLO - fotolia

The palatine tonsils consist of a concentrated accumulation of lymphatic defense cells. They fulfill important defense functions in the immune system. Because this is not fully developed in children, they often suffer as adults from the painful inflammation. "If purulent tonsillitis occurs spontaneously, antibiotic therapies relieve discomfort and accelerate healing processes," Lothar Bleckmann, member of the HNOnet NRW, an association of established ENT doctors. "Anti-inflammatory tablets, throat sprays and acetaminophen against fever and pain can also help well."

Tonsillitis. Image: Henrie - fotolia

Sometimes tonsillitis occurs again and again. About six times a year, ENT doctors talk about a chronic condition. Then the new guideline recommends an operative removal of the tonsils. Depending on the severity of the symptoms, it may also make sense to operate with fewer tonsillitis a year. This decision must be made by the patient together with the doctor.

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"Although the surgery is considered a routine procedure, but sometimes after the removal of the tonsils also a higher susceptibility to infections," said Dr. med. Bleckmann. "For younger patients between the ages of three and six, ENT specialists often only perform partial surgical removal." Tonsillotomy is performed in Germany in hospitals, practices or surgical centers.

The procedure usually takes about 20 to 30 minutes, is performed under general anesthesia and patients go home the same day. The success rate for an improvement of the complaints is over 90 percent. However, as with any surgical procedure, the tonsillectomy involves risks. Bleeding or swelling of the surrounding tissue are typical risks. Basically, this operation is a procedure with a very low complication rate. (Pm)