Swollen Tonsil & Adenoid Treatment in Southern California

Enlarged tonsils and adenoids can cause a range of symptoms, including recurring sinus infections and sleep apnea. The expert ENT team at SCENT – Southern California Ear, Nose, and Throat, treats tonsil and adenoid problems in patients of all ages at four convenient locations in Long Beach, Los Alamitos, Huntington Beach, and Newport Beach. If you or your child has tonsil and adenoid problems, call your nearest Southern California ENT office or book an appointment online today.

What are tonsil and adenoid problems?

Tonsils and adenoids are parts of your lymphatic system. You have two tonsils — one on either side of your throat — and two adenoids, which are higher in the throat, where it connects with your nasal passages. Tonsils and adenoids help your body prevent infection by trapping viruses and bacteria.

Tonsil and adenoids may become enlarged as the result of an infection, such as chronic tonsillitis. Sometimes, food or debris gets caught in the tonsils and causes tonsil stones, which are hard, white or yellow formations that smell foul. Allergies can also cause tonsils and adenoids to swell.

It’s normal for children and adolescents to have enlarged tonsils and adenoids without the presence of an infection or other problem. Even in the absence of an underlying cause, naturally enlarged tonsils and adenoids can create problems with breathing and swallowing.

What problems can enlarged tonsils and adenoids cause?

Unless it’s due to an infection or allergies, most enlarged tonsils and adenoids don’t cause problems. When symptoms or complications do occur, they may include:

If you or your child experiences any of these symptoms, the skilled team at SCENT – Southern California Ear, Nose, and Throat can help.

How are tonsil and adenoid problems diagnosed?

First, the team at SCENT – Southern California Ear, Nose, and Throat reviews your medical history and examines your tonsils and adenoids. They may perform nasopharyngoscopy, which involves inserting a thin, flexible camera through your nose to view the back of your throat.

They may take an in-office X-ray to document the size of these tissues. If they suspect sleep apnea, you may also need to do a sleep study in the office or at home.

How are tonsil and adenoid problems treated?

The team at SCENT – Southern California Ear, Nose, and Throat creates a personalized treatment plan that addresses your specific needs. This may involve treating an underlying condition, such as allergies or an infection, with medications.

If medication management doesn’t resolve the tonsil and adenoid problems, the team may perform a surgical procedure, such as a tonsillectomy or adenoidectomy.