Response:

Tonsils are lymphoid tissues located at the back of the throat. They serve an immune function, fighting off pathogens that enter the body through the nose and mouth. Frequent exposure to bacteria, viruses, and external harmful agents can easily lead to tonsil damage, swelling, and inflammation.

Tonsillitis and hypertrophic tonsillitis differ in size and impact. Common symptoms of tonsillitis include fever, sore throat, and reduced appetite. Hypertrophic tonsillitis causes abnormally enlarged tonsils, obstructing the airway and leading to difficulty swallowing, snoring, and sleep apnea.

Dr. Phuong performing a tonsillectomy on a patient. Illustration: Tam Anh General Hospital.

Recurrent hypertrophic tonsillitis can cause airway obstruction, leading to snoring and waking up gasping for air in the middle of the night. You should visit an ear, nose, and throat specialist. The doctor will perform a nasopharyngeal endoscopy, conduct a polysomnography, and respiratory polygraphy to comprehensively assess the extent of airway obstruction.

If hypertrophic tonsillitis causes severe obstruction, affecting breathing and sleep, the doctor may consider and recommend surgery to prevent episodes of sleep apnea. After a tonsillectomy, snoring and sleep apnea can improve.

Mild tonsillitis is often managed with medical treatment and risk factor control. Depending on the cause, the doctor may prescribe antibiotics for bacterial infections, treat symptoms if viral, and use antiseptic solutions, pain relievers, and fever reducers as needed, along with keeping the neck warm. You should adjust your lifestyle, including weight management, limiting alcohol and tobacco. Changing sleeping positions also helps reduce airway obstruction. Patients should have regular check-ups to assess the condition and intervene appropriately, preventing the disease from worsening.

Master, Doctor, Specialist Level I Pham Thi Phuong

Ear, Nose, and Throat Center

Tam Anh General Hospital, TP HCM