What are tonsils and tonsillitis?
The tonsils (also known as palatine tonsils) are two small organs made of lymphoid tissue. They are visible at the back of the throat, on either side of the base of the tongue. The tonsils act as bacterial filters. When one breathes through his or her mouth, the air passes over the tonsils and they help prevent pathogens (disease causing matter) from entering the body.
Unfortunately, the tonsils become infected easily – especially during childhood. The small, oval organs swell, turn red, and sometimes form pus. In modern times, this infection (tonsillitis) is usually successfully treated by antibiotics. A generation ago, the infection was usually the signal for a tonsillectomy (surgical removal of the organs). This simple operation is rarer today, possibly because of an heightened awareness of the importance of these little organs and the increasing variety of wide spectrum antibiotics.
Tonsil health can be improved by frequent use of antiseptic mouthwash and regular toothbrushing.
Carla D
Tonsils help the body’s immune system to filter the germs, bacteria and viruses that enter through the mouth or nose. When the immune system is weakened, the tonsils can get infected. This condition is called tonsillitis which can be very painful. Sore throats are typically associated to viral infections of the upper respiratory tract such as the mouth, nose and throat. However, tonsillitis can also be caused by bacteria.
