The tonsils are two collections of lymphoid tissue lying either side of the back of the throat. They form part of a ring of similar tissue in this area. They were put there for a purpose and we need a very good reason to remove them.
The tonsils and other lymphoid tissues act as a barrier to infection. They contain white blood cells which devour and destroy bacteria and viruses. They are also an important part of the immune system, helping in the production of antibodies to fight off infection.
Sometimes they become infected. Acute tonsillitis commences with a sore throat and often a high temperature, and the lymph glands in the neck are usually swollen. The tonsils are enlarged, reddened and sometimes covered with spots of pus. The usual cause is infection with the streptococcus germ.
Unfortunately sore throats due to either bacteria or viruses, are common. But this is a pharyngitis, or infection of the throat, rather than a specific infection of the tonsils. It is important to note the difference.
The streptococcus germ remains very sensitive to penicillin, and this is the treatment of choice.
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